The earlier the help, the better the chances
There is no treatment that eliminates autism. However, there is solid evidence that early, appropriate support noticeably benefits a child's development.
What a treatment program could look like
Early intervention
Targeted, early support demonstrably improves the development chances of a young child, hence the importance of rapid recognition.
Family guidance
Parents and any brothers and sisters are actively involved, not only the child itself. This relieves the pressure on the entire family.
Educational support
Adjustments at school, from a quiet workplace to extra guidance, often make the difference between participating and dropping out.
Psycho-education for the child itself
From an appropriate age, the child learns to understand his or her own brain better, avoiding feelings of guilt about 'being different' being' can reduce.
In teenagers: attention to additional symptoms
Anxiety, depression or an eating disorder relatively often occur together with autism during puberty and deserve attention in addition to the autism itself.
What you can ask yourself
Report concerns as early as possible
Do not wait to see if it will go away on its own. Early notification to the clinic or GP shortens the path to help.
Ask for Integrated Early Care
This free collaboration between organizations can help before a formal diagnosis has been made.
Keep an overview yourself
Make a note of which agencies you have been in contact with and what has been agreed, so that you are not always back to zero begins.
Seek free support if you get stuck
If you are unable to resolve the issue with care, an independent client support worker can help you with your decision. That is free of charge. If you get stuck in youth care itself, please also see our page about getting stuck in youth care.
🏎 Need immediate help?
In case of immediate danger to yourself or someone else: call 112. Are you in distress or are you thinking about suicide? You can call or chat with 113 Suicide Prevention day and night via 0800-0113. Zorgfuik is not a crisis service and cannot solve acute requests for help, but we think it is important that you know where you can go.