How to recognise autism, and how you can help

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disability that affects how individuals communicate, interact with others, and experience the world around them. It is described as a spectrum condition because it affects each person in unique ways. This means that autistic individuals will have varying degrees of difficulty with social interaction, social communication, and behaviour. Unlike many other disabilities, autism is often a 'hidden disability', meaning you cannot simply tell someone is autistic by looking at them. Many autistic people learn to mask or camouflage their natural behaviours to fit in, which can make identifying possible autistic traits in everyday encounters less straightforward.

This article aims to provide a simple guide to recognising some possible autistic traits you might encounter in public and, crucially, how you can respond with kindness, respect, and understanding to make everyday interactions better for everyone.

Recognising Possible Autistic Traits in Everyday Situations

While it's important not to assume someone is autistic or to try to diagnose them yourself, understanding some common characteristics can help you interpret behaviour with more empathy. Remember, these are just possible indicators, and every autistic person is an individual.

• Communication and Social Interaction Differences

  Autistic people may find it difficult to understand subtle social cues like facial expressions, body language, gestures, and tone of voice. They often communicate in a direct and literal way, meaning they say exactly what they mean. They might struggle with sarcasm, metaphors, figures of speech (like 'it's raining cats and dogs'), and idioms. This directness can sometimes be misinterpreted as bluntness or rudeness. They may also find it difficult to start or maintain conversations or know when it's appropriate to join in. Some may avoid interactions because they find them difficult or uncomfortable. Eye contact can also be challenging for many autistic individuals.

• Sensory Sensitivities

  Many autistic individuals are more affected by things like loud noises, bright lights, and strong smells or tastes. Public spaces such as shopping centres, markets, and busy waiting rooms are frequently filled with overwhelming sensory stimuli, which can lead to sensory overload. This can cause significant anxiety, distress, and even meltdowns.

• Need for Routine and Predictability

  Autistic individuals often find changes to routine and unfamiliar environments challenging and anxiety-inducing.

• Intense Interests and Repetitive Behaviours

  Many autistic people have intense interests or hobbies that they focus on deeply. They may also use repetitive behaviours, sometimes called 'stimming', such as hand flapping or rocking, as a way to self-regulate sensory input or emotions. These behaviours serve a purpose for the individual and are not done to annoy others.

• Behaviour as a Form of Communication

  Sometimes, what appears as challenging behaviour in an autistic person may actually be a way of trying to express something or make someone aware of an unmet need, such as being unable to communicate pain or feeling overwhelmed. Lack of understanding about autism can lead to misinterpretation of these behaviours.

How You Can Help Promote Better Interactions

The key to supporting autistic people in the community is through understanding, kindness, respect, and compassion. Here are some practical ways you can help in your interactions:

• Communicate Clearly

  Be clear and direct in your language. Avoid sarcasm, jargon, idioms, metaphors, and figures of speech, as these are often taken literally.

• Be Patient and Allow Time for them to Think

  Some autistic people may have a 'processing delay'. Allow them extra time to absorb what you've said and formulate a response. Don't rush them.

• Check for Understanding

  Simply asking "Do you understand?" might not be enough, as some individuals may say yes even if they don't. Be willing to repeat or rephrase information in different ways if needed. Ask direct questions to ensure clarity.

• Offer Specific Help

  If you sense someone is struggling, offer specific ways you can help rather than just a general "Can I help?". For example, "Can I help you find something?" or "Would you like me to turn down the music slightly?".

• Be Mindful of the Environment

  If you are in a position to influence the environment (e.g. in a shop or community group), consider how sensory stimuli might affect someone. Small adjustments, like dimming bright lights or reducing background noise, can make a significant difference.

• Respect Boundaries and Routines

  Be mindful of personal space. If possible, provide advance notice of any changes to plans or routines, as unexpected changes can be very distressing.

• Avoid Assumptions and Stereotypes

  Do not assume you know what an autistic person is thinking or feeling, or that all autistic people are the same. Avoid relying on stereotypes often seen in media. Autistic people are individuals with unique strengths and challenges.

• Choose Patience and Kindness

  If someone's behaviour seems different or unexpected, choose patience and kindness. Understand that their behaviour might be a response to feeling overwhelmed or unable to communicate a need.

• Learn More

  Taking the time to educate yourself further about autism demonstrates genuine interest and respect. Seek out resources and, if possible, listen to the voices of autistic people themselves.

By adopting these practical tips and approaching interactions with empathy and a willingness to adapt, you can contribute to creating a more inclusive and supportive community where autistic individuals feel understood, respected, and valued.

Remember, your small actions can make a significant difference in enabling autistic people to live full and meaningful lives.