What is ASD?

First off, ASD is short for Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn and behave. Although ASD can be diagnosed at any age (in recent years, more adults have been diagnosed with this condition), it is described as a developmental disorder” because symptoms usually appear in the first two years of life.

Healthcare providers use the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) to diagnose ASD (click here to get the full criteria)

The common signs people with ASD often have are:

• Restricted (and quite commonly inappropriate) interests and repetitive behaviours

• Difficulty with communication and interaction with other people

• Symptoms that hinder their ability to function in school, work and other areas of life

As the name suggests, there is a wide spectrum or variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience. People of all races, ethnicities, races and economic backgrounds can be diagnosed with ASD. Although it can be a lifelong condition, people with ASD can have a marked improvement in their quality of life with good treatments and services.

The American Academy of Paediatrics actually recommends that all children should be screened for ASD at 18 and 24 months along with regular developmental milestones screenings