Raising a child with autism can be challenging in a number of ways, if your son’s autism is getting worse it can be particularly disheartening.

In this article we explain why that may be the case and what you as a parent can do about it.

Worsening autism

The first point to cover is the statement itself in that is your son’s autism getting worse or is he just growing and changing.

A child’s journey with autism is different in many ways to the neuro-typical but behavioural fluctuations is one similar aspect.

Below are some factors to consider;

Developmental

One reason why a child’s autism may appear to be worsening is due to the normal developmental changes they experience.

As children grow older, their social expectations increase, and they are required to navigate more complex social situations.

These developmental milestones can pose greater challenges for autistic children, leading to an apparent worsening of symptoms.

As mentioned above its essential to recognise that this change is not necessarily a worsening of symptoms.

It could well instead be a response to the increasing demands of their environment.

Sensory overload

Sensory processing issues are common among children and adults with autism.

As such an increase in sensory overload can contribute to the perception of worsening symptoms.

Environmental factors such as loud noises, bright lights, or crowded spaces can overwhelm the sensory system.

This could end up leading to heightened anxiety and behavioural difficulties.

A child who previously coped well with certain sensory triggers may suddenly exhibit heightened sensitivities.

This could therefore giving the impression of a worsening condition.

Puberty

Puberty is a challenging time for nearly all children and those with ASD are no different.

The onset of puberty can bring about significant hormonal changes that can affect mood, behaviour, and overall emotional well-being.

This transitional period can be particularly challenging for individuals with autism, as they may struggle with understanding the process .

Hormonal fluctuations can intensify existing autistic traits, leading to apparent worsening of symptoms.

Ongoing support and guidance from parents and professionals can greatly assist individuals during this phase of development.

Other conditions?

Autism often coexists with other conditions, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, or depression.

These co conditions can complicate the presentation of autism symptoms and impact overall functioning.

Changes in the intensity or manifestation of these other conditions can give the impression of an exacerbation of autism symptoms.

Identifying and addressing these additional challenges is crucial to understanding the needs of your child.

What about regression?

Regression, a phenomenon where a child with autism experiences a loss of previously acquired skills and abilities, can be a distressing occurrence.

While many individuals with autism make progress in their development, a subset may exhibit periods of regression.

This causes natural concern and confusion among parents, teachers, and professionals.

Understanding the potential causes and implications of regression is crucial in order to provide appropriate support.

Regression typically occurs during early childhood, often between the ages of 18 and 24 months when language and social skills typically emerge.

Parents may notice a loss of previously acquired abilities, such as a decline in communication skills or self-help skills.

Whilst it is more common in children of a younger age, regression can also occur in autistic children of various ages.

It is therefore possible that what appears to be worsening of symptoms is actually a process of regression.

What can parents do?

In order to overcome this perceived or apparent worsening of symptoms, parents must firstly identify the cause.

The above are some of the possible factors but parents will always know their child better than others.

With many children it may be a case of working on their sensory sensitivities or communication struggles as these can amplify behaviour problems.

Parents can consider alternative forms of communication, adapting their home for sensory needs or even getting therapy.

Another tactic available is one of patience and waiting. It could be that the child is just going through developmental challenges and these difficult times will pass.

Summary – Son’s autism getting worse?

While it may appear that a child’s autism is getting worse, it is crucial to consider the complex factors that can contribute to this perception.

Developmental changes, sensory overload, co-occurring conditions, puberty, and unmet needs are all potential factors involved.

These alone or in a collection, can influence the presentation of autism symptoms.

By recognising and addressing these contributing elements, parents and professionals can better support children with autism.

Understanding the unique journey of each child with autism is key to providing the necessary tools and resources to enable them to thrive.