Understanding the Challenges
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), especially those who are nonverbal or profoundly affected, often face significant behavioral challenges. Common severe maladaptive behaviors include:
Self-Injurious Behavior (SIB): Actions like head-banging, biting, and scratching oneself can cause physical harm and are often due to frustration, sensory overload, or communication difficulties. Speaking from experience my son's SIB of choice is bitting himself and head-banging to the point he has to wear arm guards and a helmet!
Aggression: Behaviors such as hitting, kicking, pushing, or throwing objects can be triggered by frustration, sensory overload, or challenges in expressing needs. Our child will break anything not tied down and if he does get anything we over looked you can be it is coming like a MLB fast pitch at one of us!
Property Destruction: Destructive behaviors like breaking objects, tearing materials, or damaging furniture can stem from frustration, sensory issues, or a lack of appropriate outlets for energy.
Tantrums and Meltdowns: Intense emotional outbursts involving screaming, crying, or physical resistance can occur when individuals are overwhelmed or unable to communicate effectively. Imagine wanting something and not being able to speak...this is often the trigger for our son's meltdowns. Something as simple as needing a hug or painful like a migraine and you can't ask for medicine.
Elopement or Wandering: Attempts to leave a safe environment without supervision can pose significant safety risks. We simply do not go anywhere anymore unless there are at least 3 of us...
Sensory Sensitivities: Extreme reactions to sensory stimuli like loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures can trigger distress and maladaptive behaviors. No shoes, no shirt, no service! Our child and most can't stand the feeling of clothing and often strip, even on a public beach.
Resistance to Changes in Routine: Disruptions to established routines can provoke anxiety and resistance, leading to behavioral outbursts or refusal to engage in activities. I accidentally missed a turn on the way home and it was if I had thrown him out the window...the meltdown. The silver lining in that experience was that at least he knew where he was!
Social Withdrawal: Avoidance of social interactions and preference for isolation can result from difficulties understanding social cues, sensory overload, or past negative experiences.
Our Mission
We are dedicated to supporting families of nonverbal and severely affected children with autism. By addressing their unique needs, we aim to improve the quality of life for these children and their families.
How You Can Help
Nutraceutical Interventions:Your donations will help cover the cost of nutraceuticals, which can improve symptoms and overall health. Read more from ASU
Respite Care: Providing respite care for caregivers to reduce burnout and enhance family well-being.
About the Founder
As a parent of a nonverbal, severely autistic 13-year-old son, I understand the struggles firsthand. After years of seeking help, I earned a master's in biomedical nutrition from the University of Texas at Austin, focusing on nutraceuticals and their impact on autism. My commitment is to share this knowledge and support other families in need.
Your support can make a real difference. Together, we can provide the necessary resources to help families navigate the challenges of severe autism.
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