Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a condition that affects how people interact, communicate, learn, and behave. It can be seen in many different ways, so no two people with autism are exactly the same.

Understanding Autism

Autism, or ASD, includes a variety of challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and communication. Some people with autism can talk and interact well, while others may have trouble speaking and use different ways to communicate. Some may have learning difficulties, while others do not. The level of support needed can vary widely.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of autism usually appear by age 2 or 3, and a diagnosis is often made around age 5. The DSM-5-TR, the updated version of the DSM-5, provides guidelines for diagnosing autism, including difficulties with social communication and repetitive behaviors.

Levels of Autism

The DSM-5, a guide used by doctors to diagnose mental health conditions, divides autism into three levels based on how much help a person needs:

• Level 1: Requires support. People at this level might need help with social skills and managing their behavior. They might also benefit from things like extra time on tests at school.

• Level 2: Requires substantial support. Individuals at this level may have more noticeable challenges with social skills and behavior.

• Level 3: Requires very substantial support. People at this level have the most severe challenges and need a lot of help in daily life.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact causes of autism are not fully known, but researchers believe that both genes and environmental factors may play a role. Some factors that might increase the chances of having autism include having an older sibling with autism, older parents, certain genetic conditions (such as Down syndrome or Fragile X), or being born very early.

Changes in Diagnosis Terms

Before 2013, autism was divided into different categories, although these terms are not commonly used today.

Autistic disorder

Childhood disintegrative disorder

Pervasive developmental disorder, not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS))

Asperger syndrome

Rett syndrome

Now, all these categories are included under the general term "autism spectrum disorder."