Can autism or ADHD be "cured"?
Neurodevelopmental disorders are a group of conditions that affect the development of the brain and nervous system. They can lead to difficulties in acquiring and performing various functions such as speech, movement, learning, and social interactions. These disorders typically appear in early childhood and often last throughout a person’s life. This category includes Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
You may also encounter the term “neurodiversity”. This concept acknowledges the individual nature of brain and nervous system traits.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
The diagnostic criteria (DSM-5) for autism spectrum disorder include persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction, as well as restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. The disorder appears in the early developmental period and lasts throughout the lifespan. Common challenges for individuals with autism spectrum disorder include: a need for routine and difficulty adapting to changes, problems understanding social contexts and cues, difficulties with sensory processing, symptoms of anxiety, and other issues with emotional regulation. In popular culture, people on the spectrum are often stereotypically portrayed (as “weird” or “geniuses”), which does not make it easy to receive a proper diagnosis and the necessary support. The term “spectrum” allows for the consideration of an individual’s unique characteristics and for providing care that is tailored to their specific needs.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity. These symptoms interfere with functioning and development and appear before the age of 12. Common challenges for patients include: difficulty with concentration, forgetfulness, disorganization, a lack of time management, trouble starting and finishing tasks, hyperactivity, impulsivity, rapid emotional arousal, and sensory overload. The consequences of these issues can be problems maintaining relationships, self-blame, high sensitivity to rejection, and disruptions in education and work. As we can see, ADHD affects every area of a person’s life, although it isn’t always obvious to others. Why? Because individuals with ADHD can be highly effective in their actions, which can come at the cost of significant physical and emotional strain. We must also remember that the type and severity of symptoms can vary for each patient.
It is important to remember that ASD and ADHD are not “diseases” and cannot be permanently “cured.” The goal of therapy is to improve functioning and meet the individual needs of each patient. These needs may involve learning social skills and emotional regulation, strengthening self-acceptance, changing daily routines, or building a supportive environment, among others. Fortunately, there are scientifically proven methods that are effective for the common difficulties faced by neurodivergent individuals.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and third-wave therapies are continuously expanding their set of techniques and tools to help patients.
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