This week is Autism Awareness Week.
Autism is a lifelong condition that affects how people communicate and interact with others.
Autism affects people in different ways. But most autistic people see, hear and experience the world differently from people without autism.
Autistic people may be given a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder or Asperger syndrome.
It’s estimated about 1 in every 100 people in the UK is autistic. More boys and men are diagnosed with autism than girls and women.
But it’s now thought older girls and women may manage the condition differently and are therefore underdiagnosed.
Although there’s no “cure” for autism, with the right support many autistic people live fulfilled and active lives.
(Source: NHS UK)
Mike has Asperger Syndrome – a form of autism. Mike is confident, independent and enjoys keeping fit, especially running but any sudden change to routine can cause anxiety and panic. He tells us a little bit about it (click on the photo to see his You Tube video)
Keir has autism. He lives at home with his family and enjoys films, TV and playing games on his ipad. He tells us how his autism affects him (click on the photo to see his You Tube video)
If you’d like to find out more about autism and Asperger’s please visit the Mencap website