The Stress of Living With Autistic Children

In the United States, approximately 1 in 110 children have an autism spectrum disorder, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Because children with this disorder require a great deal of attention, caregivers should establish healthy coping mechanisms to relieve stress.

Definition

• Autism is a complex developmental disorder that affects a child's social skills and communication. It interferes with how one relates to others, often resulting in behavior that is inappropriate, obsessive or dangerous. While there is no cure for autism, researchers generally believe it is caused by both genetics and the environment.

Symptoms

• Symptoms begin before the age of three. Children with autism may have delayed speech or language skills, avoid eye contact, repeat words over and over, fail to respond to their name, have obsessive interests, or feel the need to flap their hands. A number of therapies and interventions have been developed to target and improve a child's symptoms.

Care Giving

• Because children with autism required a great deal of attention, it is normal for parents or guardians to feel stress. Support groups --- whether in person or online --- are a good way to ask questions, share stories and gain insight and understanding. It is important for the caregiver to take time for him or herself when possible, enlisting a qualified sitter or other family member for several hours.