Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition that affects how a person communicates and interacts with others, and how they experience the world as a whole. It’s important to understand that autism is a spectrum, and because of that, it presents differently in each individual. You can meet people with subtle differences, all the way to those with noticeable support needs.
According to the British Medical Association (BMA), around 700,000 people in the UK have a diagnosis of autism. Understanding the condition is now ever more important to building a society that is inclusive and compassionate, breaking the stigma and fostering better support to those who need it.
What better time to start than now? In this article, we aim to explore the basics of the condition and how to offer effective and respectful care.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Years of research have shown that there is no single cause of autism. What’s closer to the truth is that autism is likely the result of a complex combination of genetics and environmental factors, which can influence the way the brain develops in the early stages.
The Genetic Factor
Scientists do agree that genetics plays a major role in autism. Studies show that it tends to run in families, and certain genes have been linked to differences in brain development. But it’s important to notice that not one gene causes autism on its own. Rather, it happens as a result of a network of genetic variants that may increase the likelihood.
The Environmental Factor
The surroundings a mother experiences during pregnancy and the child does in early infancy can also contribute to the development of the disorder. Examples of environmental causes of autism include:
- Advanced parental age at the time of conception
- Pregnancy and birth complications (low birth weight, oxygen deprivation, etc.)
- Exposure to certain substances during pregnancy (air pollutants, pesticides, specific medication, etc.)
That being said, these factors are only associated with increased risk and are not proven to directly cause autism.
We can’t build an inclusive and informed society if we don’t learn to separate facts from fiction. One of the most harmful misconceptions related to autism is the idea that it’s caused by vaccines. There is no such thing. Multiple large-scale studies, including research published in the European Journal of Paediatric Neurology, have debunked and confirmed: there’s no link between routine childhood vaccines and autism.
Autism Symptoms And Signs
As we already touched upon, autism shows up differently in every individual. However, some common core signs and behaviours may indicate a person is on the spectrum. And they usually fall within two main categories:
Social Communication Differences
- Difficulty understanding or using non-verbal cues, e.g., eye contact, facial expressions, etc.
- Challenges with taking turns while speaking and reading social cues
- Trouble forming friendships or joining typical social play
Repetitive Patterns of Behaviour
- Repeating the same actions or phrases, also known as “stimming”
- Rigid thinking or needing predictable routines
- Intense focus on specific interests
Sensory Sensitivities
Some common signs in an individual experiencing autism point to hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to sensory input. This could be:
- Sounds, lights, even textures
- Certain smells and tastes
- Touch and temperature
Unique Strengths
When talking about disorders, we often forget that these conditions do come with their own unique strength and abilities that other people may lack. These can include exceptional memory and attention to detail, strong interest and deep knowledge in specific subjects, and creative thinking and problem-solving, among many others.
Do remember that these are examples and, again, symptoms can vary from person to person. Do not self-diagnose. If you suspect you or a loved one may be experiencing autism, speak to a professional.
How Is Autism Diagnosed?
Here’s what to expect if you or a loved one is going through an autism diagnosis. The process typically involves a combination of behavioural assessments, along with observations, and developmental history discussion. There isn’t one single test template for the condition, so expect professionals to use standardised tools to evaluate different factors like social, communication, and behavioural differences.
Why Early Intervention and Diagnosis Matter
They do because the earlier autism is identified, the sooner the right support system can be put in place. This can lead to improved communication, social interaction, and coping strategies, all of which can elevate the individual’s experience and set strong foundations for their long-term wellbeing.
How to Support People with Autism
The right support and care can make all the difference in nurturing empowered individuals. It should never be about changing someone with autism. The aim is to create the right environment where they can thrive unapologetically themselves.
Some practical strategies can be applied in the home. Make sure the person with autism enjoys consistent routines, clear communication, and a home environment that caters to their sensory sensitivities. To help you build the right surroundings for you or a loved one, autism care London services can offer expert support, guidance and in-home assessments that help you thrive.
In school, autism support can mean encouraging inclusive education, visual support, and staff and teachers trained in autism awareness.
In the workplace, managers should offer reasonable adjustments. Examples of these can include flexible hours, quiet spaces, and clear written instructions.
Autistic people, just like every human being, don’t need to be ‘fixed’ but understood and accepted.
Therapies for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Therapy can support the development of life skills—communication, independence, and more—but to do it effectively, it should always be person-centred and rooted in respect for the individual.
Some common types of support that can really enhance an individual’s experience include: speech and language therapy, which can help with communication through spoken or alternative methods; occupational therapy, which focuses on daily living skills and helps regulate sensory sensitivities; and behavioural therapies, which promote the understanding and proactive support.
Whichever kind of support you choose, always remember that therapies should be tools for self-expression, independence, and comfort. They should help the individual thrive by being themselves rather than being changed into someone who could ‘fit’ society. Everyone’s fit for society. Some of us just may need some additional support.
The Way to a More Inclusive World
The goal of any form of care is always a better quality of life. Autism support is no exception. When there’s understanding, empathy, and the right help, autistic individuals can lead very fulfilling and empowered lives.
Together, we’ve explored the basics of what the condition entails, its possible causes, and common signs. However, if you want to explore more, navigate a new diagnosis, or simply learn how to support a loved one, awareness is the first step. For additional questions and more information on autism care and in-home support, contact our team. We’re here for you.
And know that if you’re reading this, you’re already on your way to make this world a little bit more inclusive.