The vast expanse of the sea has always been a source of fascination and wonder for many people. Its ever-changing nature and boundless horizon evoke a sense of calm and tranquility, making it the perfect place for introspection and reflection. As I stand here, gazing out onto the sea, I can’t help but think about the recent studies that reveal the staggering number of people in the UK who are autistic. It is estimated that about 700,000 people in the UK are autistic, which works out as around one in every 100 people in the population. However, research also indicates that the numbers could be twice as high, as there are still many people who are undiagnosed.
In light of these statistics, Dr Selina Warlow, a clinical psychologist and owner of The Nook Neurodevelopmental Clinic, has shared a glossary of terms that give insights into some of the traits of autism. This glossary aims to provide support when it comes to recognizing symptoms and understanding the needs of autistic individuals. Dr Warlow believes that the increasing conversation around neurodiversity is a positive step towards normalizing it in society. However, the high numbers of undiagnosed individuals highlight the need for more awareness and understanding to help people identify whether they are autistic and start their assessment journey. A diagnosis can open access to expert resources that support autistic individuals to thrive in society.
Here are some of the key terms that Dr Warlow explains to give a better understanding of autism:
Stimming (Self-Stimulatory Behaviour)
“Stimming” is a term that refers to repetitive movements or sounds often associated with autism. These behaviors are used to manage sensory overload and can include rocking, tapping, hand-flapping, and spinning. While these behaviors are not exclusive to autistic individuals, they are more likely to use them as tools of self-regulation.
Masking
“Masking” is a behavior that autistic individuals may use to hide their true characteristics and blend in with neurotypical individuals. This could involve copying facial expressions, planning conversations in advance, or holding in “stimming.” For example, an autistic individual may swap hand clapping with playing with a pen to avoid drawing attention to themselves. This behavior can be exhausting and can lead to what is known as “autistic burnout.”
Autistic Burnout
“Autistic burnout” is a state of extreme mental and physical exhaustion that can be associated with the act of masking for a long period of time or sensory and social overload. This can manifest as withdrawal from social life, reduced performance, and increased sensitivity to certain stimuli. It is important to recognize the signs of autistic burnout and take steps to manage it.
Literal Thinking
For some autistic individuals, language is always very literal, which can result in confusion with figures of speech, irony, or indirect requests. For instance, being told to “pull your socks up” might be understood literally, not as a motivational phrase. Therefore, using exact words and being direct in communication can be more helpful during conversations.
Assessment
Prior to diagnosis, a person showing signs of being autistic may choose to be assessed. This process can either happen through the NHS by visiting your GP or through a private assessment. Dr Warlow emphasizes that a diagnosis can be both an emotional and empowering time as it helps individuals understand their strengths and needs and adjust their lives accordingly.
Hyperfocus
“Hyperfocus” is where an autistic individual is able to intensely focus on a specific activity and become completely absorbed in it. This can be a useful trait in work or hobbies but can also result in neglect of other aspects of life, such as food or rest. Dr Warlow suggests setting alarms to help keep tasks moving and prevent hyperfocus from becoming overwhelming.
Special Interests
Autistic individuals can have a particular interest that they find fascinating and dedicate a lot of time to learning about. These special interests usually begin presenting in childhood but can also develop in adulthood. They can range from anything like dinosaurs or superheroes to hobbies like gardening. Dr Warlow highlights that special interests can also lead to successful careers, as seen in the case of Chris Packham, a well-known natural world TV presenter who has autism.
AuDHD
The term “AuDHD” is gaining traction in the neurodiverse community and refers to a combination of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Many autistic individuals also have ADHD, which
