Choosing from myriad of ASD treatment options

"A survey study asked parents about their use of 111 different possible autism treatments. These included many different categories including behavioural or educational therapy, medications, diets, supplements, medical procedures and alternative therapies. Parents (mostly from the US) indicated that they had tried an average of seven treatments for their child (Green, 2006). In choosing to use so many, some parents may be selecting options that have little research evidence to inform them what to expect. The danger here is that in some cases, a treatment may cause unpredicted harm to a child. Alternatively, it may not have as much effect as it is promoted to have and may result in a loss of family resources (time or money), which could be put to better use elsewhere.
One approach to this problem is for parents to review as much information as possible concerning a treatment they are considering for their child. But, this unfortunately, may not be enough... available sources such as the Internet, requires knowledge of how to evaluate levels of evidence...learning how to appraise research knowledge at a more basic level can still be useful." - from article by Stephen Gentles.

Life after diagnosis

Raising a child with autism can be physically exhausting and emotionally draining. What you'll need to do include the following:
1. Your child's education and treatment: Your first step will be to find a team of trusted professionals. This group could be a team of teachers and therapists who can help gather information on the options in your area and also be able to explain the federal regulations regarding children with disabilities. This team also needs to include a case manager or service coordinator, who can help access financial services and government programs.
2. Caring for a child with autism can be a round-the-clock job that puts stress on your marriage and your whole family. To avoid burnout,experts say, you'll need to take time out to relax, exercise or enjoy your favorite activities even if it's just watching a movie together after the children go to bed.
3. A support group of other families struggling with the challenges of autism can be very useful. Many communities have support groups for parents and siblings of children with autism. (Belleville has one that meets at Family Space on the evening of the last Monday of the month at 6:15 p.m.)
4. Finally, gather yourself information on the subject so you learn to understand the myths that come with the disorder and to form yourself a strong base for journey ahead.