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Autism is a developmental condition that affects the way a person thinks, communicates and relates to other people. Autism is believed to be a spectrum disorder, this means that the symptoms and characteristics can appear in a wide variety of ways. Autistic spectrum disorders affect approximately one in 100 families in the UK. What causes autism?Doctors don’t yet know what causes autism. Some scientists think it might be genetic because some families have more than one member with autism; however they have not been able to prove this yet. What are the signs and symptoms of autism?If you have autism you might find it harder to make friends and understand what other people are thinking and feeling. Some young people with autism may enjoy talking about subjects that they are interested in, but may find taking part in more general conversations harder. Whilst some people with autism would like to have many friends, others may prefer to do things on their own. Young people with autism may also have times when they may get into difficulties in social situations i.e. being told off at school, although they never intended or believed that they were doing something wrong. People with autism might be very interested in particular things such as technology or a specific film. Others may like things done in a certain way such as always going to school the same way or going to the same shop for particular items. These interests and habits may take up a lot of time and may hinder trying new or different things. Young people with autism can also have a lot of strengths, such as being very precise, having good attention to detail and gaining an expert knowledge on their special interest. Many young people also have very good memory for particular things, such as routes, song lyrics or quotes from movies. Some teenagers may have a good sense of humour and are able to use this to entertain friends. Some young people with autism can find it very hard to ask for help and are very good at finding ways around their difficulties. This may mean they can experience more frustration, anxiety and sadness than other teenagers. Although this is not a part of autism, it is sometimes only then that people recognise that you might have autism and that you might benefit from help and support. How is it diagnosed and treated?There is not a medical test for autism. The condition can be diagnosed by doctors talking to your parents about your development and talking to you about things that you find easy and difficult. Doctors may also do different activities and tasks, such as puzzles and looking through books and pictures. What’s going to help?Although autism can’t be treated yet there are different ways used to help you make the most of your skills and reach your full potential:
For more help and informationTo find out more about Autism, read the ‘Hidden World of Autism’– a book published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers, which has been written to provide an insight into the lives of young people with autistic disorders. If you would like to know more about autism please ask your doctor or visit the National Autistic Society. Click here to choose a different journal Last reviewed by Great Ormond Street Hospital: 26 June 2008 Return
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