|
What is Autism: Impact on the Family
The incidence of stress and divorce among families with special needs children is significantly higher than in other populations.
 Issue 1 – The Diagnosis
The families have to deal with the issue of a diagnosis of autism. They are often told by the diagnosing physician that their child will not be normal again. The child will not be able to communicate and interact normally. This leads to depression and isolation.
Issue 2 – Lack of Services
Services are often inadequate or unavailable for the child. The parent often has to struggle with school, insurance company, etc., to attain the necessary services for the child.
Issue 3 – Underlying Medical Issues
Because the autism is NOT clearly defined as a medical illness but rather as a psychological issue, the child may have an underlying medical problem that is left undiagnosed because of their inability to communicate. Therefore, they exhibit behavioral problems that are often difficult to solve. These children will often present self-injurious behavior such as biting, hitting, and/or screaming. These behaviors cause the family to have a very dysfunctional family. Many parents are left stressed without any ability to cope. The end result is families left hopeless and without any outlet. We believe that without a strong faith in God and the hope that every child has a purpose many families fall apart.
 The need for services for families to alleviate the stress is essential.
There are a number of strategies that can be employed. The primary plan is to provide the families with the message of hope. Some of symptoms of Autism CAN be reversible… Or even curable.
For example, in the Christian faith, we believe that Jesus healed many people afflicted with all kinds of diseases. He healed the children who may be considered to have autism based on today’s standard. He spoke health into the lives of those he encountered. In the same way, these children today can be healed. However, God often requires us to activate our faith for our healing by doing our part.
That requires better diet, strengthening of the immune system against infection, and promoting good gastrointestinal health. When families strive to work together to find solutions for their child, they have a normal and victorious life. The family can work together to provide the child with the best of this world. The understanding of a solid and strong family is one key. The access to the necessary services and information is the other key.
|
