Ravi Lukha

What is Autism?

Autism spectrum disorder, commonly referred to as autism is a lifelong developmental disability, which influences the way individuals think and experience the world. It's actually estimated to affect at least 1% of the UK population. Now, every person with autism has their own strengths and challenges and can affect different individuals in different ways, and such experiences can vary throughout the lifespan. Such differences associated with autism may include difficulties with, for example, social relationships and interactions, as well as communication, such as in gestures, facial expressions, body language, and eye contact. They might also experience difficulties with sensory processing, including increased or decreased sensitivity to noise, touch, taste, lights, and pain. They might also prefer routine or struggle with change, or maybe highly focused in certain topics of specific interests or hobbies. They may also avoid certain situations or activities due to difficulties with the environment, and this can include anxiety related to specific social situations. Now, autism also results in individuals having many strengths, which can include some of the following. For example, attention to detail, abilities to focus for extended periods of time on certain tasks and activities, and ability to absorb information and process patterns, as well as a strong work ethic. Again, it's important to remember that every person with autism is different and will have a unique pattern of strengths and challenges.