NICE have issued new guidance on the assessment and management of autism in children and young people. This new guidance recommends a range of treatments and interventions to help ensure management addresses the person’s individual needs. Interventions covered include anticipating, preventing and managing challenging behaviour and overcoming sleep problems.
NICE has recommended that health and social care professionals receive training that includes how to communicate effectively with children and adults with autism. It should also cover how to recognise other conditions that a person with autism may develop such as ADHD, anxiety and depression. Some features of behavioural problems associated with autism may not show until a change of situation, such as starting or changing school. As a result, NICE has recommended that training covers the importance of key transition points. In addition, it should cover the child or young person’s experience of autism and its impact on their family, including their siblings and their parents or carers.
The latest classification of autism specifically includes Tuberous Sclerosis as a cause of autistic spectrum disorder. This is important for people with TSC as it allows a diagnosis that is recognised by educational, social and healthcare services and should trigger the help and support that is needed.
NICE has produced information for the parents and carers of children and young adults with autism.
