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The Society for Treatment of Autism (NS) is a non-profit charity, which develops and provides community based treatment, education, and residential support services to individuals with autism and other developmental disorders and their families. We advocate for, and provide, uniquely individualized programs and services to enable people to fully participate in their respective communities across Nova Scotia.
What is Autism? The syndrome of autism is a severely incapacitating and life-long disability. It is best described as a neurological dysfunction. However, the exact nature or type of dysfunction has not yet been determined. Although autism was originally thought to be a rare disorder, more recent studies have estimated the prevalence of autism and related disorders to be as high as 20 per 10,000 live births. Autism tends to be three-to-four times more common in boys than girls. Currently, there is no definitive medical test, such as a blood test, to identify autism.
Individuals diagnosed with autism tend to be diverse. If a person were to walk into a room full of autistic individuals, they would likely be struck more by the differences than the similarities. However, all autistic individuals share common behavioral characteristics, and it is on this basis that a diagnosis is made. At present, physicians, psychiatrists and psychologists rely on the behavioral criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual - Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) when diagnosing autism. Generally, autistic individuals display the following:
- Impaired ability to engage in social interaction;
- Impaired communication skills; and
- Specific behavioral patterns (e.g., preoccupation, resistance to change, adherence to nonfunctional routines and stereotyped and repetitive behaviors).
In addition, there are a number of other characteristics associated with autism. However, these characteristics do not have to be present for the diagnosis to be made. These include:
- short attention span / impulsivity;
- self-injurious behaviors;
- odd responses to sensory input;
- abnormalities of mood;
- an uneven profile of skill development;
- abnormalities in eating, drinking or sleeping;
- unusual fears or anxieties; and
- the presence of special abilities.
Autism may be accompanied by other handicapping conditions, such as seizures or significant cognitive (intellectual) delays. Most autistic individuals have no physical disabilities and appear "normal". It is important to note that the symptoms displayed by an individual with autism can change as the individual matures and/or receives treatment.
Autism is a Pervasive Developmental Disorder. Other Pervasive Developmental Disorders include: Asperger's Disorder, Rett's Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and Pervasive Development Disorder (not otherwise specified).
There is no known cure for autism. Although claims regarding "cures" have been made, they have not been substantiated. Research indicates that the most successful method for treating and educating autistic individuals involves structured and intensive behavioral interventions. Through effective intervention, autistic individuals can be assisted to fulfill their unique potential and lead happier and more productive lives.
Cape Breton Community Respite
A Respite Service is available to families of children with special needs who are assessed as having moderate to severe functional disabilities. This program is open to families living in Cape Breton.
Suitably, screened workers will be matched with children of families who need assistance in caring for their child. Respite care may take place in the child's home or in our two-bedroom respite home, located near Sydney, N.S. depending upon the family's needs.
Links Autism Treatment Services of Canada
Contact Information
Society for Treatment of Autism
P.O. Box 392, 541 Charlotte St.
Sydney, Nova Scotia, B1P 6H2Phone: (902) 567-6441
Fax: (902) 567-0425
E-mail: autism@ns.sympatico.ca
Supported by
Kings Regional Rehabilitation Centre
Technical Resource Centre