Autism Awareness
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
ASD is a neurodevelopmental difference that can include differences in social communication and interaction, along with restricted or repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities. Some people may need substantial support in daily life, while others may need minimal support and live very independently.
Levels of Support
Autism is sometimes described in terms of the level of support a person may need. Needs can change over time and in different environments. Support levels are not a measure of a person’s worth or potential—they help guide services and accommodations.
Co-Occurring Conditions
Autism can occur alongside other conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, learning differences, sensory processing differences, sleep challenges, or seizure disorders. Not everyone experiences these, but co-occurring conditions are common.
Causes
Researchers believe autism results from a combination of genetic and environmental influences. Autism is not caused by parenting style, and it is not the result of something a person did “wrong.”
Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference, meaning the brain develops and processes information differently. Brain imaging and genetics research show differences in brain development and connectivity, but these findings are not used to diagnose autism.
Autism often runs in families. Genetics play a major role, and research suggests multiple genes may contribute. Environmental factors may also influence development, especially during pregnancy and early childhood.
Signs & Characteristics
“I always felt different. I could understand people, but I didn’t always know what to say. Crowded places exhausted me. Loud sounds hurt. I practiced conversations in my head. People said I was ‘fine,’ but I was working so hard just to get through the day.”
Autistic people do not all experience the same traits. The intensity, frequency, and impact vary widely.
Social Communication and Interaction
Some people may experience differences in back-and-forth conversation, reading social cues (tone, facial expressions, body language), or navigating unspoken social rules. Some may prefer fewer relationships, structured interactions, or more predictable social settings.
Behavior, Interests, and Routines
Some people may have repetitive movements (often called “stimming”), strong interests, deep focus in specific topics, a preference for routines, or difficulty with unexpected changes. Some may repeat phrases or scripts as part of communication.
Sensory Differences
Many autistic people experience differences in sensory processing. This may include sensitivity to sound, lights, textures, smells, or touch, or seeking certain sensory input such as movement or deep pressure. Busy environments can feel overwhelming.
Daily Living and Executive Function
Some people may have difficulty with transitions, planning, organization, time management, or completing daily tasks—especially under stress or in overstimulating environments.
Autism in Girls, Women, and Masking
Some autistic people—especially girls and women—may “mask” traits by copying social behaviors, forcing eye contact, or rehearsing conversations. This can delay diagnosis and increase stress, anxiety, and burnout.
Who Is Affected?
Autism is found in people of all races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Autism is often identified in childhood, but many people are diagnosed later in life, especially those with fewer obvious traits or those who mask.
Awareness is growing, and improved screening means more people are being recognized and supported than in the past.
Diagnosis
“My child’s teacher noticed they were struggling with transitions and sensory overload. We thought it was ‘behavior,’ but the evaluation helped us understand what was really going on—and what supports could help.”
An autism evaluation is typically performed by qualified professionals such as developmental pediatricians, psychologists, psychiatrists, neurologists, or multidisciplinary teams.
An evaluation may include a developmental history, caregiver interviews, observation of behavior and communication, standardized assessment tools, and screening for co-occurring conditions.
There is no single blood test or brain scan that diagnoses autism. Diagnosis is based on patterns of development and behavior.
Supports and Services
Autistic people can benefit from a wide range of supports depending on needs and preferences. The best supports are respectful, individualized, and focused on improving quality of life—not forcing someone to “act normal.”
Education and School Supports
Some individuals benefit from IEPs or 504 plans, classroom accommodations, sensory breaks, extra time, or support with transitions and executive function.
Therapies and Skill Supports
Some individuals benefit from speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, support for sensory regulation, daily living skills, and communication strategies.
Mental Health Support
Therapy can help with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, or burnout. Emotional regulation strategies and coping skills can also be helpful.
Medical Support (When Needed)
Some individuals need support for sleep issues, GI concerns, seizures, or other co-occurring conditions, coordinated with primary care and specialists.
Community and Family Support
Support groups, caregiver education, community resources, vocational support, and workplace accommodations can help children, teens, and adults thrive.
Living With Autism
How do children experience autism?
Children may show differences in play, communication, routines, sensory sensitivity, and transitions. With supportive environments and early services when needed, many children gain skills and confidence.
How do teens experience autism?
Teen years bring increased social demands and pressure. Autistic teens may experience anxiety, burnout, or isolation—especially if masking. Support with self-advocacy, routines, and mental health can be very helpful.
How do adults experience autism?
Many autistic adults live independently, build careers, and have families. Others need ongoing daily support. Late diagnosis is common and can be validating. Adults often benefit from workplace accommodations, therapy, community connection, and strategies for sensory and executive function needs.