Autism spectrum disorders
A lifelong difference in communication, social connection and sensory experience.
Autism is not an illness or a deficit to be fixed, it is a different way of experiencing the world, communicating and processing sound, light, touch and social situations. It is called a spectrum because support needs vary enormously, from someone who needs help with daily living to someone who lives fully independently and only had their autism recognised as an adult. Many families first notice differences when a child is struggling at school, but plenty of adults are recognised later in life, often after years of being called difficult, shy or overly sensitive. Autism is not caused by parenting style or by vaccines, it is a difference someone is born with. Understanding how a person's mind works is the first step to helping them, and everyone around them, feel less misunderstood.
Signs you might notice
- Differences in eye contact, facial expression or the back-and-forth of conversation
- Speech that develops later, differently, or is used very literally
- Deep, focused interests that bring real joy and expertise in a particular subject
- A strong preference for routine, and distress when things change unexpectedly
- Sensitivity to sound, light, textures, or certain tastes and foods
- Repetitive movements or habits, such as rocking or hand movements, that help with self-soothing
How we help
An assessment isn't about finding something to cure, it's about understanding how a person's mind works so the right support can be put in place at school, at work and at home. It is common for anxiety, ADHD, sleep difficulty or low mood to sit alongside autism, and treating those directly is often what brings the most relief day to day. A first conversation is a good place to start, whatever a person's age.
This is general information, not a diagnosis, a consultation is the way to understand your own situation.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or thinking about self-harm, please reach out right away. You can call Tele-MANAS (Govt. of India) (14416) or KIRAN (1800-599-0019). You are not alone, and help is available.