This is a multifaceted question that we hear a lot, in a number of different contexts. From what it literally means, to what it means for the patient, their carer/guardian and the life they all want to lead. There is no one clear answer, but we can work on demystifying what having a condition like autism is like, and what it’s like depending on where on the spectrum a diagnosed person will find themselves.
So, what exactly is autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition that impacts brain development in unique ways that create difficulty with social interaction, communication, response to environment and sensory triggers, and can include repetitive or limiting behaviour patterns.
Neurologically, hyperconnectivity is reduced in the brain for those with autism, and changes occur in the structure of local brain regions causing cognitive issues and heightened response to environments.
The condition is experienced across a spectrum, from high-functioning to severe.
You can read more on the types of autism across the spectrum here.
What does autism feel like?
It’s important to clarify that autism is not an illness or a disease, so a person does not have feelings of being unwell and should not be treated as if they are. It is a unique brain function that operates a little differently to what is considered ‘typical’, though some can argue, with ease, that there are elements of how these functions can be beneficial to the person, and those around them. Some aspects of autism increase intelligence and creativity, and decrease ability or want to be deceitful.
ASD feels differently for everyone who experiences it, depending on where they fall on the spectrum. And, even then, two people with, for example, Level 2 Autism can have two different experiences.
Typically though, autism feels as if the environment you live in is visceral and more intense, so sensory triggers including sounds, touching and light can produce an unfiltered response. This can be presented with behaviour outbursts, introversion, communication difficulties, or even honed into creative activities such as producing art. The severity of the reaction scales with where on the spectrum someone is diagnosed.
Can autism be cured?
Given that it is not a disease or illness, autism isn’t something to be cured. However, the symptoms of the condition can make aspects of life difficult for those diagnosed, or the carer/guardian of someone with ASD. So there are tools and pathways that can be taken to help someone with these symptoms, and redirect responses and behaviour in thoughtful, evidence-backed ways. It’s not every about diminishing the light of someone with autism, simply to help make their path in life a little easier to navigate in a world that they experience unique to others.
If you would like to know more about how Butter Fish Services can assist with a plan to work with you, or someone you’re in the care of with ASD, contact our friendly team.