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What Is Autism?

At Women's Health Sussex, we believe in promoting understanding and inclusion around neurodiversity. This page explores what autism is, how it can present in different people, and where to find support. Whether you have a diagnosis or are supporting someone who is autistic, we're here to help you access reliable information and services.

Did you know?

Autism can affect how a person communicates and interacts with others - every autistic person is unique, and support should be tailored to individual needs.

We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but tips may change over time. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice and guidance.

What is autism?

Find out what autism is, including differences in how you experience the world if you are autistic

  • You might also hear autism called autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This is the medical term for a diagnosis of autism.
  • Being autistic can affect how you communicate with people and understand them, and how people understand you.
  • It can also affect how you think, learn and pay attention to things and how you respond to light, sounds, smells, tastes and touch.
  • Some autistic people have a learning disability. Some have average intelligence or above average intelligence.
  • Autistic people are more likely to have some physical and mental health conditions, such as epilepsy, anxiety, eating disorders or depression.
  • ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is also more common in autistic people.
  • Autism is something you’re born with. It’s not an illness and there is no treatment or cure, but there are ways of managing it and getting support.
  • It’s not known what causes autism, but it can sometimes affect people in the same family. It is not caused by vaccines or medicines.

We are autistic

This video shows how autism can affect everyday life and how you can help support and understand autistic people.

Content last reviewed by the NHS: 06 May 2029

Content last collected from the NHS: 05 June 2026

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