Musical games like passing a ball back and forth to music or playing sticks and cymbals with another person might be used to foster this interaction. Eye contact might be encouraged with imitative clapping games near the eyes or with activities that focus attention on an instrument played near the face. Preferred music may be used contingently for a wide variety of cooperative social behaviors like sitting in a chair or staying with a group of other children in a circle. Exercise is important for both physical and mental health. A number of studies have shown that vigorous exercise is one of the best treatments for depression.
Exercise can reduce stress and anxiety as well as improve sleep, reaction time, and memory.
Many autistic individuals gain weight because of their relatively inactive life-style. One theory states that autistic individuals have too much beta-endorphins in their central nervous system. This theory goes on to posit that naltrexone blocks the action of opiate receptors, and thus, reduces the level of endorphins. Dr. Jaak Panksepp of Bowling Green University, one of the leading investigators into the effects of naltrexone on lessening the symptoms of autism, feels that those individuals who cry rarely, lack pain sensitivity, and enjoy eating hot and spicy food may benefit most from naltrexone. If you would like to obtain more information about naltrexone, you may want to contact Dr. Panksepp at the Department of Psychology, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403-0228.