What is Autism?
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What is Autism?

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability which affects how a person communicates with, and relates to, other people.

Autism affects each individual in different ways. Some people may be able to  lead independent lives, but for others who have a learning disability, it can mean a lifetime of specialist care.

People with autism often struggle to make sense of the world they live in. This can cause some considerable anxiety which may be displayed in difficult and challenging behaviours.

Understanding and relating to other people, and taking part in everyday life may be very difficult for people with autism.  People with autism may struggle with communication and interaction and act differently from their peers.

People with autism may also experience sensitivity to sounds, touch, tastes, smells, light or colours.  Some people may be pre-occupied with certain topics, a need for rituals and routines and repetitive or obsessive behaviours.

There is no known single cause of autism and no cure.