Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development.
Autism disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. With the May 2013 publication of the DSM-5 diagnostic manual, all autism disorders were merged into one umbrella diagnosis of ASD. Previously, they were recognized as distinct subtypes, including autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome.
ASD can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. Some persons with ASD excel in visual skills, music, math and art.
Autism appears to have its roots in very early brain development. However, the most obvious signs of autism and symptoms of autism tend to emerge between 2 and 3 years of age.
Kim on Autism
I grew up at a time when autism wasn’t well recognized. I was not officially diagnosed until my early twenties. My childhood was not the most pleasant. It was filled with misunderstandings, delays, bullying, confusion, constant tantrums, and yelling. At 19 the tantrums stopped but in order to handle and make sense of the sensory world, I developed a severe eating disorder. I was officially diagnosed with autism a few years later; however, most treatment providers were still uneducated on autism, especially in adulthood, and didn’t understand how many of my eating disorder symptoms revolved around autism.
It wasn’t until years later that I met a therapist willing to get inside my world and help me figure out the autism. We started putting some of the peices together. Over the years I have been under the care of several healthcare professionals, most of which knew nothing about autism in adults. Some of my experiences left me very fearful of healthcare professionals. As a result I am slow to trust new providers. However, there have been a few providers who were willing to “sit on the floor with me” to learn about how my autism effects me. These individuals have positively impacted my life in remarkable ways, although the negative experiences I have had in the healthcare system has also left scars.
Those scars are part of what drives my passion to educate people about autism. I do not want other Autistic individuals to endure similar experiences. I do not want them to go through the pain and misunderstandings that I did. That’s why I’m speaking up and sharing my personal story and my professional experience.
I’m autistic. I have a voice.
My goal is to help educators, parents, and medical and mental healthcare providers understand autism so they can better help clients or family members who are afflicted.
Autism is not an illness, but it is a disability in this fast paced culture. It effects how a person processes and communicates information. With sensitivity and the right support, those with autism can succeed and live meaningful lives. I know. I am doing it!