This webpage is not exhaustive and it’s purpose is to simply introduce the basics and some websites for further information.  Understanding of ASD is ever growing and changing.  

The NHS website https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/autism/what-is-autism/ has some useful information which should be remembered if you are considering pursuing an ASD diagnosis.

“Firstly, ASD is not an illness, rather it is something you’re born with or first appears when you’re very young.  Therefore, if you are autistic, you are autistic your whole life.  It is not a medical condition with treatments or a “cure”. But some people need support to help them with certain things.”

Autism frequently co-occurs with other conditions, including, but not limited to:

• attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or dyslexia
• anxiety or depression
• Epilepsy
• Gender dysphoria
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder