What is Autism?

Autism is a condition brought about by a disorder of the brain.  Autism affects people in many different ways with results varying from subtle difficulties with social interaction, such as with Asperger Syndrome. It can also be associated with other conditions such as epilepsy and some people with autism also have learning disabilities. Others, however, may have average or above average intelligence and a few have exceptional skills although usually in a very limited field such as the ability to do extraordinary mental calculations.

In spite of much research, no specific cause for autism has yet been identified although the indications are that genetic factors are important. For instance, Autism is much more prevalent in males than females. In diagnosis, it is now recognised that there are three areas where all people with autism have difficulties irrespective of the degree of its effects - the so-called triad of impairments:

• Social interaction (difficulty with social relationships leading, for instance, to an appearance of aloofness or indifference to others)
• Social communication (difficulty with verbal and non-verbal communication, for example, misinterpreting the meaning of gestures, facial expressions and tone of voice)
• Imagination (difficulty in developing play as a child and use of imagination in activities resulting in repetitive and copying behaviour)

In addition, people with autism tend to exhibit obsessive repetition and rigid adherence to routines, the breaking of which can lead to major upsets.

It is estimated that in the United Kingdom autism in all its forms affects about 91 people in every 10,000 of the population i.e. about 500,000 in the whole of the country and about 14,600 in the area of Essex, Southend and Thurrock.

Autism is a lifelong condition and, at present, there is no one known effective cure. However, early intervention and individual specialised help and support can really assist people with autism to maximise their skills, achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life within the community.