
30/04/2025
Autism Awareness Session by Dr. Usman Ghumann
Date: 30-4-2025
Venue: Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences DHQ/Allied Hospital II Faisalabad.
Organized by: Prof. Dr Imtiaz Ahmad Dogar Chairman, Head of Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences DHQ/Allied Hospital II Faisalabad
An enlightening was conducted by Dr. Usman Ghumann, Director of Autism-Depression Comorbidity
MGH Bressler Clinical and Research program for ASD
Clinical and Research programs in pediatric psychopharmacology and Adult ADHD . Clinical instructor Harvard medical school.
The Session aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The session was attended by a diverse audience including psychology students, house officers and postgraduate residents of psychiatry.
Key Highlights:
1. to Autism:
Dr. Ghumann opened the session by defining Autism as a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by neurodiversity, with individuals presenting unique strengths and challenges in communication, behavior, and sensory processing.
2. # Epidemiology and Demographics:
The session covered the prevalence of Autism both globally and locally.
Gender differences were discussed, with a higher diagnosis rate among males compared to females.
3. Presentations and Functional Levels:
Dr. Ghumann explained the broad spectrum of Autism, including high-functioning Autism, which is increasingly being recognized. Presentations range from individuals requiring substantial support to those who lead independent lives with mild symptoms.
4. # CoreSymptoms and Diagnostic Criteria:
Common features include:
Difficulties in social interaction and communication
Rigid or repetitive behaviors
Hypo- or hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli
5. Diagnostic Tools and Evaluation:
Various tools used for diagnosis such as developmental screenings were introduced. Emphasis was placed on early detection and multidisciplinary assessments.
6. Management and Intervention Approaches:
A multidisciplinary model was strongly encouraged, involving:
Clinical psychologists
Speech and occupational therapists
Active parental involvement
Pharmacological management was briefly covered for addressing challenging behaviors such as aggression or severe anxiety.
7.Addressing :
Dr. Ghumann tackled common myths surrounding Autism, such as links to vaccines, poor parenting, or limited intellectual capacity. He emphasized that these are scientifically unfounded and contribute to stigma.
8. Interactive Q&A Session:
The session concluded with a dynamic question-and-answer segment. Attendees engaged enthusiastically, seeking advice and clarification on real-life scenarios and management strategies like stem cells therapy and proposed diets.
The Autism Awareness Session by Dr. Usman Ghumann was a well-received and impactful event. It provided participants with updated knowledge, practical strategies, and deeper empathy for individuals with Autism.