Autism

Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder that affects brain development. It can impact almost all areas of life, including how you interact with people, communicate, behave, and learn. Autism is considered to be a spectrum disorder because of how widely the symptoms and severity can vary, from struggling with communication like speaking or eye contact to displaying repetitive movements like rocking or spinning. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, people with autism may also have difficulty recognizing nonverbal cues, struggle with back-and-forth conversation, or have a deep interest in certain topics, like numbers or facts.

Autism is usually diagnosed in childhood, with early signs often showing up within the first two years of life, but adults can be diagnosed as well, especially when symptoms are subtle or go unnoticed. In recent years, people with ASD have begun sharing lesser-known symptoms on social media, helping others reach an autism diagnosis at an older age, including celebrities like Tallulah Willis. The CDC estimates that nearly 5.5 million adults are living with autism in the US, but a stigma still exists around the disorder, making it even more notable when public figures speak up and normalize their experiences. If you have questions or concerns about your child's development or believe they may have autism, be sure to speak with their doctor.