Autism is something that affects how a person’s brain works, especially how they think, communicate, and experience the world around them. It is officially called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) because autism is not just one thing. Instead, it is a spectrum, which means people can experience it in very different ways.
Some autistic people need a lot of support in daily life, while others can live very independently but still face challenges. This is why the word spectrum is important. No two autistic people are exactly the same.
Autism is also part of something bigger called neurodivergence.
What Does Neurodivergent Mean?
The word neurodivergent describes people whose brains work differently from what is considered typical. The typical way of thinking is sometimes called neurotypical.
Neurodivergence can include:
- Autism
- ADHD
- Dyslexia
- Dyspraxia
- Tourette’s syndrome
Being neurodivergent does not mean something is “wrong” with a person. It simply means their brain processes information in a different way. In many cases, this difference can also lead to strengths such as creativity, deep focus, problem-solving, or unique ideas.
Some scientists and researchers even think that neurodiversity exists because different types of thinking helped humans survive and evolve. In other words, having people who think differently might actually be important for innovation, discovery, and adapting to challenges.
Autism Levels: Level 1 to Level 3
Autism is often described using three levels, which relate to how much support a person needs.
Level 1 Autism – Low Support Needs
This means a person may live independently and manage most daily activities, but still experiences challenges.
I am classified as Level 1 autistic. In the past, this would often have been called Asperger’s Syndrome, but that term is no longer used in modern diagnosis. It is now included under the autism spectrum.
Level 1 does not mean autism is easy or that there are no difficulties. It simply means I do not need daily support to manage everyday life.
People with Level 1 autism may still experience:
- Social communication differences
- Sensory sensitivities
- Strong interests in specific topics
- Difficulty with unexpected changes
In my early school years the playground was really difficult. I found friendship groups and the constant changing of games and rules really difficult. They didn’t really understand me or why I kept getting upset. Luckily I eventually made 2 friends who just seemed to get me and they really helped me understand friendship dynamics. They are still my best friends now.
Level 2 Autism – Moderate Support Needs
People at Level 2 usually need more support with communication, routines, or daily tasks. They may find social interaction more difficult and benefit from structured support.
Level 3 Autism – Higher Support Needs
People at Level 3 often need significant daily support and assistance. Communication and sensory challenges can be much stronger.
Even though the levels exist, it is important to remember that autism is still a spectrum, and people’s experiences can change over time.
How Autism Is Diagnosed
Doctors and specialists diagnose autism by looking at certain patterns in behaviour and development. There is no single test like a blood test. Instead, they observe how someone communicates, interacts, and experiences the world.
Some of the main areas used in diagnosis include:
Differences in Social Communication
This can include:
- Finding conversations difficult
- Interpreting body language differently
- Preferring structured or clear communication
Repetitive or Focused Interests
Autistic people often have very strong interests in certain topics and can learn a lot about them.
Sometimes this is called a special interest.
Since I was 4 I have had a special interest in gaming. It all started with Mario, but I have broadened my horizons since to other games. I also have as I got older I also became strongly interested in entrepreneurship, if I could combine it with gaming in future that would be amazing.
Preference for Routine
Many autistic people like routines and predictability. Sudden changes can be stressful or confusing.
I am really rule-driven. Rules make it easier for me to understand which makes me feel safe. I get quite stressed and upset when rules are broken or changed, which makes some aspects of school life difficult as some kids seem to find this fun to do this. I have recently got interested in psychology and law which my Mum thinks is because I am trying to understand why people do things but also law really suits my rule-driven type of autism. I
Sensory Differences
Some autistic people are more sensitive to:
- Noise
- Bright lights
- Textures
- Crowded environments
Other people may actually seek out certain sensory experiences.
Autism and Strengths
Even though autism can bring challenges, it can also bring important strengths.
Many autistic people are:
- Very logical thinkers
- Highly focused on interests
- Good at analysing systems
- Creative problem solvers
- Persistent when learning something new
Some autistic people have made major contributions to science, technology, and society.
For example:
- Temple Grandin helped transform animal welfare and livestock system design.
- Greta Thunberg has spoken about how being autistic helps her stay focused on climate issues.
- Chris Packham has talked openly about autism and how it shaped his career in wildlife and science.
- Anthony Hopkins has said autism helped him focus intensely on acting.
These examples show that thinking differently can sometimes lead to important ideas and discoveries.
Could Neurodiversity Be Part of Human Evolution?
Some researchers believe neurodiversity may exist because different ways of thinking helped humans survive in the past.
For example:
- Some people are very good at spotting patterns.
- Others are great at focusing deeply on one task.
- Some people question things that others accept without thinking.
These traits can help with:
- Invention
- Scientific discovery
- Problem solving
- Strategy
- Adapting to new challenges
In that sense, neurodivergent thinking might actually be part of how humans progress and innovate.
My Perspective
Being autistic does not mean being limited. It just means my brain works in a different way.
Sometimes that creates challenges, especially with things like unexpected changes or social situations. But it also helps me think deeply about topics I care about and analyse things logically.
Being diagnosed with autism made me feel more in place and to know that I had a reason. I am much more accepting of myself. It used to be really exhausting trying to be like others and created a lot of anxiety, this is called Autism Masking which I will write about another time.
Autism can show up in so many different ways for me and I am only really starting to see that since my diagnosis. Though it can be quite challenging especially in school, the other side is that because I do see and experience things differently it means I have succeeded when others have failed at things.
Why I Am Writing About Autism
I decided to write this article because many people do not fully understand autism or neurodiversity. Some people think autism only looks one way, but in reality it is very varied.
This article is just the beginning.
On this website, I will also be writing about:
- My personal experience of autism
- School and learning as an autistic student
- Special interests and focus
- Sensory experiences
- How autism can affect gaming and strategy
The goal is to help people understand autism better while also showing that being different can be a strength.