What is autism?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that describes how someone's brain works in a way that is considered 'non-typical.' Autism is something you are born with and there is no set way that an autistic person will experience the world, everyone is individual. There are some commonalities however that can be helpful to know when understanding yourself, seeking a diagnosis, or knowing someone autistic.

Because of this difference in development, the way in which autistic people understand and interact with the world, and process information, tends to differ to that of the majority of the typical population. In particular, this difference in cognitive style can affect:

  • communication and social interaction
  • information processing
  • sensory sensitivity
  • repetitive behaviours

At Autism Unlimited we are committed to creating a world of unlimited possibilities, and this has to start with understanding.

As a spectrum condition, people will experience varying levels of challenge across these four areas and as such will require different kinds of support and adaptations. However, this can fluctuate throughout a person’s lifetime as Autism is not a static condition and every autistic person will experience different strengths and challenges, just as everyone does throughout life.

Autism is not a learning difficulty, but it is common for autistic people to have co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, epilepsy, OCD, and learning difficulties. Autistic people are also vulnerable to poor mental health, such as high stress and anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. Experiencing such mental illness can compound the difficulties and challenges arising from being autistic.

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