What is it?
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behaviour, leading to a range of strengths and challenges in how individuals perceive and engage with the world.
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Description
Autism is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the world around them. As a spectrum disorder, autism manifests differently in each individual, with varying degrees of challenges and abilities. Common characteristics include difficulties in social communication, repetitive behaviors, and strong preferences for routines. Some individuals with autism may also be sensitive to sensory inputs, such as loud noises or bright lights.
Early diagnosis and tailored interventions, such as speech therapy or behavioural support, can significantly enhance the quality of life and independence for individuals with autism. Supportive environments that recognize and accommodate the unique needs of those on the spectrum are crucial for their well-being.
Symptoms in children and young people
Autism will look different in every child but some common signs might be:
- Autism in young children
Signs of autism in young children include:
- not responding to their name
- avoiding eye contact
- not smiling when you smile at them
- getting very upset if they do not like a certain taste, smell or sound
- repetitive movements, such as flapping their hands, flicking their fingers or rocking their body
- not talking as much as other children
- not doing as much pretend play
- repeating the same phrases
- Autism in older children
Signs of autism in older children include:
- not seeming to understand what others are thinking or feeling
- unusual speech, such as repeating phrases and talking ‘at’ others
- liking a strict daily routine and getting very upset if it changes
- having a very keen interest in certain subjects or activities
- getting very upset if you ask them to do something
- finding it hard to make friends or preferring to be on their own
- taking things very literally – for example, they may not understand phrases like “break a leg”
- finding it hard to say how they feel
- Autism in girls and boys
Autism can sometimes be different in girls and boys.
Autistic girls may:
- hide some signs of autism by copying how other children behave and play
- withdraw in situations they find difficult
- appear to cope better with social situations
- show fewer signs of repetitive behaviours
This means autism can be harder to spot in girls.
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Symptoms in adults
Autism looks different person to person, but here are some common signs.
- Main signs of autism
Common signs of autism in adults include:
- finding it hard to understand what others are thinking or feeling
- getting very anxious about social situations
- finding it hard to make friends or preferring to be on your own
- seeming blunt, rude or not interested in others without meaning to
- finding it hard to say how you feel
- taking things very literally – for example, you may not understand sarcasm or phrases like “break a leg”
- having the same routine every day and getting very anxious if it changes
- Other signs of autism
You may also have other signs, like:
- not understanding social “rules”, such as not talking over people
- avoiding eye contact
- getting too close to other people, or getting very upset if someone touches or gets too close to you
- noticing small details, patterns, smells or sounds that others do not
- having a very keen interest in certain subjects or activities
- liking to plan things carefully before doing them
- Autism in women
Autistic women may be more likely to:
- have learned to hide signs of autism to ‘fit in’ - by copying people who do not have autism
- be quieter and hide their feelings
- appear to cope better with social situations
- show fewer signs of repetitive behaviours
This means it can be harder to tell you’re autistic if you’re a woman.
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What causes autism
Causes
Autism is believed to arise from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Genetic research has identified various gene mutations and variations that may influence brain development and function, suggesting a hereditary component as autism often runs in families.
Environmental factors also play a role; conditions such as advanced parental age, maternal infections during pregnancy, and exposure to certain toxins or medications have been linked to an increased risk of autism. Additionally, complications during birth or early neonatal development, like premature birth or low birth weight, may further contribute to the likelihood of developing autism.
Ongoing research continues to explore how these genetic and environmental elements interact to influence the development of autism.
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Voice
By providing early support for ASC the aim is to mediate against or reduce the likelihood of the child subsequently developing anxiety and depression through unmet need. Furthermore, as children on the spectrum are at increased risk of epilepsy and other neurodevelopmental issues, enhanced awareness of the condition is essential.
Getting help
If you think you might be autistic, you can start by booking an appointment with your GP.
- Diagnosing autism
If you suspect that you or your child might have autism, talk to your GP. If you’re concerned about your child, it can be helpful to first discuss their behavior with their teachers to see if they have any observations. While your GP cannot provide a formal autism diagnosis, they can discuss your concerns and, if needed, refer you to a specialist for a comprehensive assessment.
- Your school, college or workplace
You can get support to make things easier for you or your child.
Find out what help is available at:
- nursery or school – speak to teachers or a special educational needs co-ordinator (SENCO)
- college or university – speak to student support services
- work – speak to your manager and human resources (HR)
- Your local council
You can access support and financial benefits through your local council, though the specifics will vary based on your situation.
For Children and Young People
If you’re under 25, inquire about your council’s “local offer,” which outlines the support available for young people with special educational needs. Every council is required to have a local offer.Visit these pages to see the NCL Local Offers
Additionally, you can get advice about this offer from your local Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Information, Advice, and Support (IAS) service. To locate your nearest IAS service, visit the Council for Disabled Children website.
For Adults
If you are an autistic adult or care for one, request a needs assessment from your council. This assessment will evaluate:- The challenges you face in daily life
- The types of support or financial benefits you may be eligible for
For Parents and Carers
If you care for an autistic person, ask your council for a carer’s assessment. This will determine what support or financial benefits you might receive to assist with caregiving responsibilities.Visit this website to find your local council.
Services to support you
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