September
6
Understanding Autism
Autism is a developmental disability. It is sometimes referred to as ASD(Autism Spectrum Disorder) so called because
people with autism share three main areas of difficulty but their condition will effect them in different ways.
Some can live relatively everyday lives whilst others require a life time of care and specialist support.
The three main areas that they share are Difficulty with social communication, integration and imagination.
For people with autism body language can appear just as if someone is speaking to them in a foreign language. Many think that the things said to them are meant literally. Like the phrase “You look cool” to someone with autism they would think that you mean they look cold not that they are looking good.
They also find facial expressions or tone of voice hard to understand, also sarcasm and jokes.
Some people with autism may not speak or may have very limited speech and prefer to use sign language or visual symbols. Others will have fairly good language skills but still find it hard to understand vague conversations. It will help them if you speak in a clear consistent way and give them time to process what has been said to them.
People with autism often have difficulty understanding other people’s feelings and emotions and also have difficulty expressing their own emotions. They may find it hard to fit in socially, maybe start a conversation that is inappropriate. They may something that is upsetting to someone because they do not recognise how someone else is feeling.
They often prefer to spend time alone and not seek the company of others. They often seem to behave strangely because it is not easy for them to express their emotions, feelings and needs.
Difficulties with social imagination does not mean lack of imagination. many are very creative and become accomplished writers, artists or perhaps musicians.
Many experience bullying or are thought of as being stupid. The world is a very cruel place. Learn how to understand and not judge. They are not stupid they are decent human beings and my father taught me something that I have carried with me throughout my life and I apply to every person that I meet who needs either a kind word, a friendly face, an open ear, a helping hand or any other kind of help.
“THERE BUT FOR THE GRACE OF GOD GO I”
If you know someone that has autism or even if you don’t (you will surely meet someone one day who has or knows someone who has) take the time to find out about it. You never know it may be one of your own family one day that may need your knowledge and understanding. If you want to know more then a useful number is 020 7833 2299
or Email: nas@nas.org.uk
The National Autistic Society registered office is 393 City Road, London EC1V 1Ng
