Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder. Symptoms start to show in early childhood. Typical signs of ASD include lack of eye contact, trouble keeping a conversation, and repeating behavior like saying a sentence over and over again. There is no standard treatment for ASD but there are ways to manage the disorder. Medication can be used to control symptoms and therapy can help improve communication and developmental skills. For financial assistance with managing your condition, see our page on Free & Discounted Services.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (MedlinePlus)
- Understanding Autism (Autism Society)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Fact Sheet (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
- About Autism (Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (National Institute of Mental Health)
Managing Autism Spectrum Disorder can be a confusing experience for newly diagnosed patients and their caregivers. To learn about the specific kinds of providers that might make up your health care team, as well as the services, programs, support groups, and organizations that can help you manage, visit the Managing Autism Spectrum Disorder page.
These sites allow patients to discuss their experiences with illnesses, treatments, and other health matters. Any information or opinions posted are those of the forum users themselves and are not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Mobile apps and tools give you easy-to-use information and resources that can help you get and stay healthy. For tips on choosing apps, see How to Choose a Good Health App by The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Autism Tracker tracks and analyzes data about autism, including sleep, stress, weather, happiness, activity level, behavior, and other topics. Lite version – free; full version – less than $10. iOS.
Model Me Kids offers two apps, Autism Emotion and Model Me Going Places. Autism Emotion helps your child learn about different emotions. Model Me Going Places helps your child learn to navigate challenging locations in the community. Free. iOS.
iPrompts allows users to create and present visual schedules, timers, and choices to those with autism spectrum disorders. Paid ($49.99 for iOS; less than $10 for Android).
Verbal Victor 2.0 is an assistive communication app for people and children with emerging communication needs and developmental delays. Paid ($11.99). iOS.
Resources selected by Angela Bardeen, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Last reviewed February 14, 2024