Neurodevelopmental conditions
Autism Spectrum Disorder
A lifelong neurodevelopmental condition associated with differences in social communication, patterns of behaviour or interests, sensory processing and day-to-day support needs.
Autistic people differ widely in strengths, communication style, sensory experiences, intellectual ability, independence and support needs. Some people are identified in early childhood, while others—particularly those who have learned to compensate or “mask”—may not be recognised until adolescence or adulthood.
Social communication
Differences in interpreting or using social cues, conversation, non-verbal communication, relationships or social expectations.
Repetitive or focused patterns
Strong interests, repetitive movements or speech, preference for routine, predictability or particular ways of doing things.
Sensory differences
Heightened or reduced responses to sound, light, touch, textures, movement, smells, pain or internal bodily sensations.
Daily functioning
Support needs may involve education, employment, communication, independent living, self-care, emotional regulation or navigating change.
It is a neurodevelopmental condition. The aim of assessment and support is not to erase a person’s identity, but to understand needs, strengths, coexisting conditions and barriers to participation and wellbeing.
When an assessment may be helpful
Assessment may be considered when longstanding social-communication differences, rigid or repetitive patterns, sensory difficulties or developmental features are affecting relationships, education, employment, independence or mental health. In adults, developmental history remains important even when difficulties become most visible later in life.
What an autism assessment considers
A comprehensive assessment may explore developmental history, social interaction and communication, restricted or repetitive behaviours, sensory profile, adaptive functioning, education or employment, mental and physical health, and information from family or others where appropriate. Clinicians also consider other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions that can overlap with or coexist alongside autism.
Support and treatment
Support for communication and daily life
Helpful support can include structured communication, visual or written information, predictable routines, sensory adjustments, skill building, educational or workplace accommodations and support with daily living.
Psychological treatment for coexisting mental-health conditions
Autistic people can also experience anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, sleep problems and other mental-health conditions. Psychological interventions may be adapted by using concrete language, clear structure, visual information, explicit rules, regular breaks and attention to sensory needs.
Medication
There is no medication that treats the core features of autism. Medicines may sometimes be used for specific coexisting psychiatric or medical conditions after an appropriate assessment.
Family and caregiver support
Families may benefit from clear information about communication, routines, sensory needs, behaviour, transitions and available educational, occupational or community supports.
Autism across the lifespan
Needs can change with developmental transitions, school demands, university, employment, relationships, parenthood, ageing and changes in health. Care should respect autonomy and involve the autistic person directly in decisions to the greatest extent possible.
Adult PsychiatryMental-health assessment for adults, including coexisting conditions.
Psychological TherapiesAdapted therapy where clinically appropriate.
Preparing for an autism assessment
- Bring developmental, school or previous assessment records if available.
- Note longstanding social-communication, sensory, routine or repetitive-pattern differences.
- Consider examples from childhood as well as current life.
- List coexisting concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep or learning difficulties.
Frequently asked questions
Can autism be diagnosed in adults?
Yes. Some people are identified only in adolescence or adulthood. A comprehensive assessment still considers developmental history as well as current functioning.
Does autism always involve intellectual disability?
No. Intellectual ability varies widely among autistic people, and adaptive or day-to-day functioning may differ from measured intellectual ability.
Can autistic people also have anxiety, depression or ADHD?
Yes. Coexisting mental-health and neurodevelopmental conditions are important to recognise because they may need specific treatment or support.
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Clinical sources
NICE CG142: Autism spectrum disorder in adults — diagnosis and management
NICE CG170: Autism spectrum disorder in under 19s — support and management
This information is for general education and does not replace an individual clinical assessment or professional medical advice.
Looking for an autism-informed mental-health assessment?
Ahana’s team can help identify the appropriate clinician and pathway based on age, symptoms and support needs.