Make adaptations to the environment where possible, for example lower unnatural light if too harsh. Try noise-cancelling headphones to reduce sensory overload. Use sensory tools and stimming to reduce anxiety levels, if that works for you. Try relaxation methods such as meditation, mindfulness, yoga and exercise.
An Ayurvedic herb called Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) which is known for its, anti-anxiety, neuroprotection and antioxidant properties can help considerably. Regular massages using sandalwood, rose, lavender and gotu kola oils are also very calming and relieving, because it stimulates the blood flow and neuronal responses.
Sensory situations that may provoke anxiety can include: Crowds - school assemblies, concerts, field trips, grocery store, etc. Space - too large, too crowded, too bright, too loud, too smelly, etc. Sounds/noise.
The only medications approved by the FDA for children with autism are Abilify and Risperdal. Both are antipsychotic medications that can help with irritability and aggression. Medication can also be helpful for kids who also have another diagnosis.
Similarly, a few small studies of adults with autism found that Luvox may help with obsessive-compulsive behavior, and fluoxetine (Prozac) with anxiety, according to the Cochrane Collaboration, an independent network of scientists and researchers.
Some symptoms of anxiety overlap with symptoms of autism. This can make anxiety more difficult to identify in a person with autism. A person experiencing anxiety may lose their appetite or eat more than normal. They may struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep.
Teaching an autistic child specific calm-down techniques can help them to learn how to calm themselves down when they are feeling overwhelmed or stressed. Some common techniques include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and using a sensory toy.
Mood stabilizing autism medication
Lithium, Lamictal, Depakene, Depakote, Tegretol, Topamax, Trileptal, and Keppra are options to explore with your child's pediatrician.
The most effective interventions available are behavioral therapies based on applied behavioral analysis (ABA). There are many different types of ABA to choose from based on your child's strengths and needs.
Our top pick for magnesium supplement for autistic kids is Mary Ruth's Kids Magnesium Calm Gummies. In addition to magnesium, this supplement contains L-theanine, an amino acid that has been associated with mitigating stress and promoting relaxation.
"The standard treatments for autism – speech therapy, occupational therapy, and special education – are not going to target fears and anxiety." And it's important to do so. "Anxiety can make autism symptoms worse.
In addition to sensory triggers, certain chemicals found in everyday household products like cleaning supplies or air fresheners can also aggravate symptoms of autism. These chemicals include phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), which have been shown to disrupt hormones and affect behavior in animal studies.
A few different factors converge to explain why autistic people have an “overly full head” and disorganized thoughts, as well as why we may be scatterbrained, quick to lose oversight, and more prone to overstimulation and dysregulation. All these factors are likely caused by overconnectivity in the brain.
Foods rich in zinc such as oysters, cashews, liver, beef, and egg yolks have been linked to lowered anxiety. Other foods, including fatty fish like wild Alaskan salmon, contain omega-3 fatty acids. A study completed on medical students in 2011 was one of the first to show that omega-3s may help reduce anxiety.
The good news is that some studies (study links, a and b) have identified how magnesium may ease certain symptoms of stress and anxiety. Here are the facts: Magnesium may help to control the chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) in the brain, resulting in a calming effect on the body.