Question

Is autism a mental illness or is it simply another dimension of human difference?

Answer 1

Autism is a mental disorder and not simply a dimension of human difference.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects an individual’s behavior and interaction with other people. Autistic people find it hard to have conversations and often repeat what the other person is saying (Echolalia).

A mix of both genetic and environmental factors can cause autism. It is usually diagnosed at a young age when a child finds it difficult to understand verbal speech and nonverbal gestures, interpret facial expressions, or even express his or her emotions.

Although all autistic people share similar conditions, each of them is affected at a different level. Functioning on a normal level may feel harder and social interaction may become difficult for them, but that does not mean they do not like to communicate with people or make friends. They usually do not know why they are not able to respond in a certain way even though they want to.

We cannot really say if a person is autistic simply by looking at a person because autistic people do not always look disabled. Although it is a mental illness, autism cannot be cured as it is more of a developmental disability rather than a psychological condition that is developed due to a certain incident.

By providing good care, supporting and encouraging them, we can help autistic people lead a life where they do not feel isolated or different.