Twenty years ago, all we ever heard about was attention deficit hyperactive disorder. Today, all we hear about is autism. Why have people become so consumed with autism? Firstly, despite intense research, we still have very few ideas on the cause, pathogenesis and treatment. Almost on a regular basis, there is a new theory and treatment on cyberspace. Autism is a difficult disorder and is best treated by someone who understands childhood developmental growth. While some parents do have their child under the care of a mental health professional, there are just as many parents who do not. The reason is a deep dis-satisfaction with conventional medical therapy. We live in a society where everyone wants instant gratification and results. Unfortunately, autism is the last disorder which can make be treated with a magic bullet and expect overnight success.
Today, a great many parents seek help for their autistic child over the internet. However, one should know that there is currently no standard therapy for autism. There is no right or wrong approach to the treatment- simply that the philosophical approach is different. The cyberspace is full of information about autism but it is not the place to seek medical advice. There are a lot of non health care workers who now offer treatment(s) for this condition. All parents should be read about this disorder- the more informed you become, the better you will be able to seek care for your child. Do not always believe everything that you read or hear about autism. If one child responds to a treatment, this does not automatically mean that your child will. There is a great variability in autism and single isolated reports will only confuse you. The internet is unrealistic and impractical.
Before one embarks on an unrewarding voyage in search of a cure, you should know that there is no cure for this disorder nor is there any effective medical therapy that works in all children. Some autistic children may respond to one type of treatment and others may respond to an entirely different treatment. Most experts agree that if your child fails one treatment, than he/she should be considered for another treatment option.
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