Overview
Medical and psychologist experts continue to develop unique treatments and therapies, empowering patients by elevating their lives.
One such new therapy is Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) – a pleasant form of paresthesia that is more like a tingling sensation, which begins on the scalp and moves downward to the spine.
ASMR is proving beneficial by catering to an array of social and behavioral issues. Amongst many problems, it also aids in treating Autism. Yes, that’s right!
Let’s find out what these two phenomena are and if and how ASMR can help Autistic individuals.
Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR)
ASMR describes the sensation that people feel when they watch some triggering videos.
Since everyone has a different tendency to approach and feel things, ASMR triggers work differently for everyone.
Some trigger examples are:
- Whispering sounds
- Giving close attention to something like brushing hair
- Ordinary tasks like tapping, spraying bottles
Due to the various benefits of ASMR, it has lately taken the world storm, as is evident from the millions of videos posted on YouTube and the growing interest in them.
Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or simply Autism, is usually characterized by strange behavioral responses in a person, and it occurs in many different forms.
Given the wide range of causes of Autism, from genetics to environmental factors, there is no one way to approach its treatment.
ASMR As A Prevention For Autism
While ASMR therapies can help people reduce depression and anxiety, and feel happy, there are limited studies to develop efficacy for Autism.
A study relating to Autism and ASMR shows the following results:
- During a meltdown, ASMR can identify triggers and help to reduce negative behavior and turn it towards emotionally stable outcomes.
- After a meltdown, ASMR videos can also help to increase relaxation in toddlers.
- Devices that display high-quality videos can stimulate ASMR and cause positive feelings.
- Using microphones to listen to ASMR audios stimulates auditory ASMR.
- ASMR can help to increase relaxation during overstimulation
- Using ASMR videos can help autistic individuals react positively
- Parents can help their autistic children by showing them their favorite ASMR video
Potential Downsides
The benefits seem to be very promising, don’t they?
However, it must be noted that there are many gaps in the study.
One of the most common is related to overstimulation which occurs due to loud noises.
The condition of experiencing loud noises as well as discomfort is known as misophonia.
Instead of reducing the effects, ASMR can worsen them because people don’t respond well to the voices.
Alternate Options
The studies are limited, and there should be more research to address the issue.
Meanwhile, autistic people can try some new options, which are as follows:
- Build your daily routines to remain stable
- Identify triggers and prepare to counter them
- Use therapies to improve speech, learning, and development
A holistic development will ensure a reduction in autism signs.
Final Verdict
Autism is a complex disorder, and there are a number of different ways to help people suffering from it.
ASMR so far has emerged as an effective way to help patients calm down and balance their emotions.
However, there is still a long way to go before it can be termed as a successful therapy for Autism.
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