Lesser known facts about autism

How much do you know about Autism? Here are some facts that aren’t always talked about.

There is No Single Test to Diagnose Autism

There isn’t a single medical test (like a blood test or brain scan) for autism, but specialists use various tools to evaluate symptoms. Diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) typically involves a combination of standardized tests, clinical observations, and developmental history assessments. The full assessment process typically takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on specialist availability.

Girls and Women Are Underdiagnosed
Autism has historically been studied more in boys, leading to a diagnostic bias. Many autistic girls and women "mask" their traits by mimicking social behaviors, which makes it harder for them to be diagnosed and get support.

Autistic Burnout is a Real and Debilitating Condition
Autistic burnout happens when an individual experiences prolonged stress from masking their autism, dealing with sensory overload, or struggling with societal expectations. It can lead to extreme exhaustion, loss of skills, and mental health challenges.

Autistic People Often Have Unique Learning Styles
Many autistic individuals learn in non-traditional ways, often excelling in areas of deep interest while struggling with conventional educational methods. Some may be hyperlexic (learning to read very early) but have difficulty with comprehension, while others may struggle with rote memorization but excel in pattern recognition or creative problem-solving.

It’s Not Just About Social Challenges
While autism is often associated with social difficulties, it also affects sensory processing, motor coordination, and even interoception (the ability to sense internal body signals like hunger or thirst). Some autistic people may struggle to recognize when they need to eat, drink, or use the restroom.

Autistic People Often Have a Unique Pain Response
Many autistic individuals experience pain differently than neurotypical people. Some may have a high pain tolerance and not notice injuries, while others may be hypersensitive to even mild discomfort. This can sometimes lead to challenges in medical care and self-awareness of health issues.