Autism is a developmental disability which affects the way a person makes sense of the world around them. It also affects how they communicate with and relate to other people. Autistic people tend to have problems with social interaction and communication.
Autism includes a range of conditions and it is known as a spectrum disorder because the way it affects people and the degree to which they are affected varies. Some people with autism live quite independent lives but others may have associated learning disabilities which require specialist support. Some people with autism may experience sensory difficulties relating to sound, touch, taste, smell, light or colour.
It’s estimated that about 1 in every 100 people in the UK is on the Autistic Spectrum and more boys are diagnosed with the condition than girls.
There’s no cure for Autism, but speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and educational support can help.
Asperger Syndrome is part of the Autism Spectrum. People with Asperger Syndrome are often of average or above average intelligence. They tend to have fewer problems with speech, but may still have difficulties with understanding and processing language. They may also have difficulties understanding some of the rules governing social interaction.
We usually think of Autism as a difficulty, but there is some discussion about the benefits that also come with it. The cognitive strengths of some individuals may mean that they can focus on tasks without breaks in concentration, and some people on the Autism Spectrum report enjoyment from their unique way of thinking and perspective of the world
There is a range of information on-line about Autism for people wishing to know more.
Below are some links to information we have found useful:
Autism and Mental Health E-Leaflet
