Autism is a developmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is diagnosed in 1 in 59 children in the United States.
Mood disorders are common among people with ASD. In fact, research shows that up to 80% of people with ASD also have a mood disorder. This can make finding pediatric help for autistic kids challenging, as many doctors and therapists are not trained to deal with both autism and mood disorders.
There are many resources available for parents of autistic children, but finding ones that specifically address mood disorders can be difficult. The Autism Society of America offers a list of support groups and service providers that may be helpful. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) also has a list of support groups and resources specifically for autism and mood disorders.
If you are struggling to find pediatric help for your autistic child, reach out to these organizations for support. You are not alone in this journey. More importantly, you should not go through raising your child thinking that you don’t have the options of support that you need.
If your child has autism, it’s important to find a pediatrician who is experienced in treating autism. If you need some guidance on where to start, here are some things to look for in an autism-friendly pediatrician:
Dr. Washatka is a pediatrician in Tulsa, Oklahoma who is not only understanding of autism but also trained to help autistic children. She has a special interest in autism spectrum disorders and has completed additional coursework and training in this area. She is a member of the Autism Society of America and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Dr. Washatka provides comprehensive care for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. She strives to provide individualized care and support to each child and family. In addition to her medical training, she also has experience working with children with autism in educational and therapeutic settings. This allows her to provide a well-rounded approach to autism care.
If you are the parent or caregiver of a child with autism, or if you suspect that your child may have autism, please contact Dr. Washatka to schedule an appointment. She will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your child’s individual needs.