Autism Unveiled: 5 Surprising Facts Beyond the Spectrum

What is Autism?

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how people communicate and interact with the world. Approximately 1% of the global population, or over 75 million people, are estimated to have autism. Our understanding of autism is constantly evolving. Here are five key points about autism:

1. Diagnosis Varies: Not everyone is diagnosed with autism early in life. Some people may not realize they have autism until much later. Misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis can occur due to factors like academic excellence, unequal access to healthcare, and evolving definitions of autism.

   

2. Unique Communication Styles: Individuals with autism have diverse communication styles; some people use spoken language (or words) and others communicate by using pictures, gestures and assistive devices. These can include written communication, visual aids, active listening, and directness.

   

3. Intense Focus: People with autism often have passionate and intense interests in specific topics, such as trains or weather, which can provide comfort and motivation.
   

   

4. Gender Differences in Diagnosis: Autism is diagnosed four times more often in males than in females. This disparity may be due to females having more subtle symptoms and being better at masking social difficulties.

   

5. Sensory Sensitivities: Sensory activities can both help and overwhelm those with autism, leading to hypersensitivity. Individuals may be highly sensitive to stimuli like lights, sounds, or crowds, while others may find comfort in them.

DES works with individuals with autism through two of our divisions. The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) supports individuals with autism by providing Support Coordination (case management). A Support Coordinator assesses a person's needs and helps them to identify needed supports and services. More than 22,400 DDD members have autism spectrum disorder. Learn more about DDD services, and see if you or a loved one are eligible for DDD services.

The Division of Employment and Rehabilitation Services (DERS), on the other hand, provides various services to individuals with disabilities, including autism, to help them prepare for, enter into, and retain employment. Learn more about the DERS Vocational Rehabilitation Program.

Read More: How DERS Collaborates with the Division of Developmental Disabilities

Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/autism/index.html
National Autistic Society UK: www.autism.org.uk/ 
VeryWell Health: 5 Reasons Why an Autism Diagnosis Is Missed