Topic - Autism’s Touch
Autism is more than a disorder of the brain, skin may also be involved.
An altered sense of touch may influence the developing brain in ways that lead to social deficits and anxiety.
Intense sensitivity to touch leads to fewer interactions with others and less opportunity to learn and practice social skills.
Chronic physical discomfort from clothing, shoes, glasses and even food increases anxiety.
There’s a window of time where the over-reaction to being touched can be treated.
The goal is to reduce sensitivity and restore normal sensation through medications and perhaps, genetic manipulations.
For now, occupational therapy and activities that reduce sensitivity are the most reasonable approaches.
The misery index is high for these those on the autistic spectrum. Do what you can to make them comfortable.
