Disclaimer:
Autism presents significant neurological challenges, often stigmatized in Indian society due to misconceptions. In this blog, we highlight a successful case handled by I-Span, where we helped both the child and parents navigate these challenges with positivity. Founders Prasanna Gopala and Shubha Chittaranjan are committed to sharing positive outcomes to encourage others facing similar struggles to seek support. At I-Span, we handle every case with empathy, ensuring confidentiality by using fictional names for our patients. Our sole goal is to inspire and support, while respecting the privacy of those who trust us with their journey.
Case Study:
Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a complex developmental and neurological condition that affects how people communicate, behave, learn, and interact with others. Both children and adults with ASD face persistent challenges in social communication and forming connections with people, including friends and family. They often exhibit repetitive behaviours, have restricted interests, unclear speech, and struggle with low self-confidence. These factors can lead to social isolation, impacting their personal, social, and professional lives.
However, if you discover that your child has autism, do not lose hope. With proper psychosocial intervention, children with autism can be trained to develop better social and communication skills. Mind-body therapies can also significantly improve the quality of life and well-being of children with autism. The case of Matthew, managed by the experts at I-Span, is a clear example of this progress. To learn more about Matthew's case history, read on.
The Background
Matthew is an autistic child, and the signs and symptoms of autism became evident to his family when he was just 12 months old. As an infant, he was sensitive to loud noises and bright lights, which led his family to realize something was amiss. After undergoing medical screenings, Matthew was diagnosed with autism. As he grew older, the challenges also grew, becoming more pronounced and leaving his parents feeling hopeless and disheartened.
The truth came as a shock to Matthew’s parents. Their expectations were shattered when they learned their son was autistic. In traditional families and society, neurological or mental disorders like autism are often stigmatized, subjecting parents, especially mothers, to uncomfortable and intrusive questions. Family and friends frequently blame the mother, as Matthew’s parents experienced, leading them into depression over his condition.
Challenges Faced
Matthew has been facing several challenges due to his condition. The most significant challenges are:
Difficulty with Social Interactions: He struggles to form relationships and communicate effectively.
Emotional Dysregulation: He is prone to frequent meltdowns and has difficulty managing his emotions.
Sensory Sensitivities: He exhibits heightened or diminished reactions to sensory stimuli, such as sound, touch, or light.
Motor Coordination Issues: His fine and gross motor skills are underdeveloped, causing clumsiness and difficulty with physical activities.
Repetitive Behaviours: He engages in repetitive movements or routines that are hard to break.
Difficulty with Transitions: He finds it challenging to cope with changes in routine or environment, often resulting in distress.
First Step Taken By I-Span: Parental Counselling
Before working with the child, we first provide parental counselling. Learning that their child has autism can be overwhelming for parents, so we offer emotional support and prepare them mentally and emotionally to face the long-term challenges of raising an autistic child. We also provide a comprehensive understanding of autism, introducing them to I-Span’s unique Mind-Body therapeutic approach.
Through our counselling sessions, we instil hope and confidence in parents, emphasizing the effectiveness of our holistic healing process. These sessions foster emotional resilience, enhance parental understanding, and improve the well-being of both the child and the parents, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to nurture their child’s potential while maintaining a positive outlook.
Treating Matthew: Holistic Treatment by I-Span
Our ultimate goal for Matthew is to help him build a strong foundation of skills that will allow him to thrive in various aspects of life. We focus on his strengths while providing support in areas that need development. At I-Span, we utilize evidence-based Mind-Body therapy to unlock the power of balance and holistic healing for Matthew. The therapies and treatments we apply include:
Mind Development
Cognitive Skills Enhancement: We implement therapy aimed at improving thinking, attention, and mental quickness. This approach has proven to be more effective than supportive therapy in enhancing these skills in autistic children.
Emotional Regulation: Our emotional regulation therapy helps Matthew redirect his confused thoughts toward something positive. We guide him in understanding and identifying his thoughts, emotions, and feelings, teaching him how to respond differently to various situations. This therapy often utilizes props and tools, such as an emotional levels chart.
Social Interaction: We employ behavioural therapy focused on enhancing Matthew's social skills and interactions. To achieve this goal, experts at I-Span utilize techniques such as turn-taking (listening and speaking in turns), nonverbal communication (using sign language), perspective-taking (considering others' viewpoints), peer communication (interacting with other autistic children), and structured activities.
Body Development
Motor Skills Training: At I-Span, we make Matthew participate in tailored motor skills training designed to enhance his coordination and physical abilities. Through engaging activities and targeted exercises, we aim to boost his confidence and independence in everyday movements.
Sensory Integration Therapy: We also provide sensory integration therapy to help him manage sensory stimuli. This personalized approach improves his comfort and daily functioning.
Movement and Exercise: We engage him in movement and exercise activities to improve his physical coordination and overall health. These fun, structured sessions enhance his strength while promoting social interaction and teamwork.
The Outcome
Matthew's life has transformed significantly since he began therapy at I-Span. Through personalized interventions, he has improved his social skills, emotional regulation, and motor coordination. The supportive environment has helped him build confidence and connect better with his peers. Our support has also helped his parents cope with the situation and maintain grit and confidence to face the challenges of handling a kid with autism. If you have an autistic child, don’t lose hope—coming to I-Span can make a meaningful difference in their life, just as it has for Matthew.
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