This article is evidence-based, verified by <\/em>Dr. Ahmed Zayed<\/em><\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Autism, also referred to as autism spectrum disorder, characterizes itself with impaired social interactions and behaviors that tend to repeat themselves. Autism is\u00a0quite common<\/a>, according to the latest research done by the CDC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In 2018, 1 in 37 boys<\/a> and 1 in 151 girls<\/a> received an autism diagnosis, with boys being four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism. Although autism has no cure, we are fortunate enough to have various treatment plans to lean on for support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this post, we'll cover:<\/p>\n
Science has shown<\/a>\u00a0that the anxiety rates were three times higher as compared with adults with intellectual disabilities. Stress represents a big problem for individuals with autism, no matter their age. It is common for them to describe autism as a building-up internal sensation of tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A study published in 2003 has suggested<\/a> that repetitive behavior serves as a management tool for these individuals when they face distress and anxiety. Shredding paper or clothes is an often seen repetitive behavior<\/a> within these individuals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mindfulness represents an approach that teaches individuals to change the way that they think and feel about their life experiences, especially when they are in the middle of stressful situations. Techniques include breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga.<\/a> Mindfulness training teaches people how to be present at the moment and how to pay more attention to reduce their stress levels. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So far, many scientific researchers are trying to explore the effects of mindfulness within individuals with autism, ranging from children and adolescents to adults and elderly individuals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mindfulness has been proven as helpful in cases of autism, from children to high-functioning adults. Besides, practicing mindfulness has also reflected positively on the\u00a0parents\u2019 state of mind, helping them, as well, to reduce their stress levels and practice mindful parenting from which their autistic children can benefit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A mindfulness training over twelve months has led to a decline in stress and anxiety levels within parents and children, including a reduction in thought problems within children and an increase in quality of family time, according to research published in 2015<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But practicing mindfulness has not only helped by reducing anxiety, depression, stress, and aggression among individuals of all ages, it has also contributed<\/a> to enhancing the positive affect and psychological well-being of these individuals and the people around them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Positive effects were seen among their parents as well in the form of improved parenting, and improved emotional and behavioral functioning, according to research conducted at the University of Amsterdam<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Apart from joining a mindfulness training led by a professional, parents are also encouraged to peruse practicing mindfulness at home, in everyday situations that may cause anxiety to occur within an autistic child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These techniques can also fit into a teenager\u2019s<\/a> or an adult\u2019s everyday routine. In the following, we will share some essential steps and methods that can help anyone practice mindfulness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When an individual is agitated, sometimes something as simple as taking ten breaths can help. In a situation when there are anxiety and stress is present, both the parent and the child can try to focus on taking ten breaths in and out together, following each other\u2019s breathing rhythm. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is one of the techniques that are most suitable for children. Filling a pot with some water, baby oil, and glitter can be used during your next mindfulness training at home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The anxious child can be asked to watch as the glitter settles down after you have shaken up the jar, similar to how their anxiety is expected to reduce in such a situation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Laying down in bed with closed eyes only to draw attention to different body parts is a great mindfulness technique. The individual can try to start by paying attention to his feet and work their way up to their head while becoming aware of every single body part. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Naming five elements in the room is a mindfulness technique that can be practiced alone or with somebody else. It involves listing five objects or more if the person is alone, as a way to become aware of one\u2019s surroundings. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, by focusing on the environment, the individual can act to reduce his anxiety without being aware of it, only by directing his focus on something else at the moment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n