What Is Autism?
Autism is a developmental spectrum disorder, the term ‘spectrum’ means that characteristics of autism can vary between individuals.
Each and every child is different and will experience the world differently, at Clinical Partners we respect individuality and aim to provide your child the best possible support specific to their needs.
In some children the signs of autism are very obvious and they may be diagnosed from an early age. But for other children the symptoms of autism are more subtle and therefore harder to pick up, this may be something you have been suffering with on your own as your child presents unusual behaviours which may not fit a stereotypical description of a child on the autistic spectrum.
However you are not alone:
1.1% of UK children under the age of 17 are thought to have a diagnosis of autism
2011 Census – The National Autistic Society
A study showed that the average age of diagnosis for autism was 5 years but this increased considerably to 11 years of age for Aspergers.
Early diagnosis of autism is important
Early diagnosis can make a real difference to the child and their family, allowing adjustments to be put in place and giving the family a chance to get used to things, before teenage years happen.
Having a child on the autistic spectrum can affect the whole family, and everyone involved. It is likely to disrupt family life and can be very unsettling for the carers and child alike. This is understandable due to the often unpredictable behaviour and specific special needs presented by your child.
As a parent you may have growing suspicions that your child is processing information differently to other children and if so it can be really helpful to get a formal diagnosis from an expert paediatric psychiatrist.
A formal diagnosis will identify whether your child has autism and what type of ongoing support they might need.
Clinical Partners have child and adolescent consultants nationwide who will be able to carry out a full assessment of your child – please call 020 3761 7026 to speak to one of our experts.
You do not need a GP referral.