About Autism Spectrum Disorder

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects the way a person relates to the people and world around them. It is clinically defined as a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder with impairments in social communication, including language, and a pattern of repetitive stereotyped behaviours. In addition to these core symptoms, ASD carries many associated neurological issues that can cause hyperactivity, anxiety, seizures and sleep deficits, among other challenges, and is often accompanied by other medical conditions. The presence and severity of these symptoms range greatly for individuals across the spectrum.

ASD is, however, about so much more than a diagnosis or a definition. It is about countless obstacles, alienation and devastation in the lives of people we know every day. It is about our real human need to belong and our innate ability to care for others. It is about respect, empowerment and opportunity. It is about strength, faith and hope. It is about our children or our neighbour’s children. It is about their caretakers and loved ones. It is about a greater community that needs to be accepting and inclusive of all people. It is about family.