Autism Spectrum Disorder
Understanding autism, for autistic people and the people around them.
Autism is a different way of experiencing the world: how you take in sound, light and touch, how you communicate, and what helps you feel settled. It isn’t an illness to cure. Many autistic people want understanding and the right support, for themselves and from the people around them.
What it can be like
Senses and routines
- Sounds, lights or crowds that feel overwhelming
- Feeling settled by routines, and unsettled when plans change
- Deep, focused interest in particular subjects
- Needing time alone to recharge
With other people
- Finding unwritten social rules confusing or tiring
- Preferring direct, clear communication
- “Masking”: working hard to fit in, then feeling drained
- Feeling misunderstood, or understood only by a few people
Autism, in plain words
Autism (autism spectrum disorder, or ASD) is lifelong and shows up differently in every person. Some people are recognised in childhood, others only as adults. Support isn’t about changing who someone is. It’s about understanding their needs, reducing stress and overload, and making daily life, school, work and relationships work better.
Only a qualified professional can assess for autism. You don’t need a diagnosis to talk to someone about what you’re noticing.
It may help to talk to someone if
- You wonder whether you or your child might be autistic
- You often feel overwhelmed, burnt out or misunderstood
- You’re finding school, work or relationships hard to manage
- You’re a parent or partner looking for ways to support someone
Where to go from here
You don’t have to work through it alone
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If someone you love is autistic
- Ask what helps them feel comfortable, and believe them
- Say what you mean clearly, and give time to reply
- Respect their need for quiet, routine or time alone
- Celebrate their interests and strengths, not only the struggles
Questions people ask
Autism isn’t an illness, so there’s nothing to cure. Support helps autistic people and their families understand needs, reduce stress and make daily life easier.