What is autism?
Autism is a neurodivergence that affects how people communicate, interact with others, and experience the world around them. It affects each person differently, and no two autistic people are the same.
It’s important to note that being autistic isn’t an illness or disease, and it’s not something that can or needs to be “cured.” Many autistic people see it as a fundamental part of who they are, alongside real strengths such as attention to detail, deep focus on areas of interest and honest, direct communication.
Autism often occurs alongside other conditions, including:
- ADHD: which affects attention and impulse control.
- Anxiety: which can be heightened by sensory or social demands.
- Learning disabilities: which affect a person’s ability to understand new or complex information.
What causes autism?
Autism is understood to be largely genetic, though the exact causes aren’t fully known. It’s present from birth, even if it isn’t recognised or diagnosed until later in life.
Autistic people can experience the world and process information in different ways. Some examples are given below but every individual has their own unique experience.
Social communication
- Finding small talk or unwritten social rules difficult to navigate.
- Preferring direct, literal communication over implied meaning.
- Difficulty reading facial expressions, tone of voice or body language.
Sensory and routine
- Sensitivity to lights, sounds, textures, or smells.
- A strong preference for routine and predictability.
- Intense interest in specific topics or activities.
Behavioural
- Repetitive movements or behaviours, sometimes called stimming, which can help with self-regulation.
- Difficulty coping with unexpected changes.
- Becoming overwhelmed in busy or overstimulating environments.
What can help autistic people?
If you or someone you know is autistic, or thinks they might be, there are lots of things that can help. You can speak to a GP, who can advise on referral for an autism assessment, or contact a specific support organisation (we’ve linked to some great ones in this article, where you can get advice and information).
Understanding and acceptance make the biggest difference. Autistic people often benefit from environments that respect their communication style, sensory needs, and need for predictability, rather than expecting them to mask or change who they are.
Practical adjustments can also help, such as reducing sensory overload with quiet spaces or noise-cancelling headphones, using clear and direct communication, and giving advance notice of changes to routine. For children, individualised support at school, and for adults, reasonable adjustments at work, can make daily life significantly easier.
Connecting with the autistic community, in person or online, can also be valuable, offering a sense of shared understanding and lived experience.
Learn more about autism
There are lots of resources online to help you learn more about autism, find ways to support autistic people, and access further support.
- NHS advice on autism
- NHS guide to help and support for autistic people and their families
- Ambitious About Autism
- Autistic Girls Network
- National Autistic Society – the UK’s leading autism charity
Last reviewed: September 2026
Our neurodiversity guides have been reviewed by Jamie Douglas, Associate Director of Response Youth. Jamie has a PGCE in Secondary Education and a Masters in English and Language in Education, with 12 years’ epxerience as a secondary school teacher. He is currently studying for a Masters in Inclusion, with a focus on autistic children. Jamie is autistic himself and is open about his own experience of neurodivergence, bringing valuable lived experience alongside his professional expertise.