Autism is known as a “spectrum” disorder because there is wide variation in symptoms, skills and levels of impact people experience.
The estimated UK prevalence of ASD is 1% and because of its early onset, lifelong persistence, and high levels of associated impairment, it is recognised as a major public health concern.
There are many claims of a 'cure' for autism, all of which are without foundation. However, there are interventions that can help some of the core features of autism, some of the symptoms, behaviours and problems commonly associated with autism, and support families and carers.2 Many individuals with ASD have psychiatric symptoms that do not form part of the diagnostic criteria for the disorder; it is recognised that about 70% of individuals with ASD impairment may have one comorbid mental disorder and 40% may have two or more comorbid mental disorders. Medical conditions commonly associated with ASD include epilepsy, sleep problems and constipation.1 Identification of comorbidities may provide targets for specific interventions to reduce overall impairment and improve quality of life.
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Intellectual Disabilities, ASD and Sleep
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Education & Training
Interactive Case Study – Insomnia in Paediatric ASD
ADHD and ASD
Information for parents of children who may have characteristics or symptoms suggestive of ADHD and/or ASD.
Autism and Sleep
A guide for parents and carers of children with autism experiencing difficulty sleeping. This leaflet describes why sleep is important for children with ASD and provides tips on what can be done to improve sleep behaviour and ...
Service Support
References:
1. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition: DSM-5. American Psychiatric Association, 2012. NICE Clinical guideline CG170 Autism spectrum disorder in under 19s: support and management. Published August 2013