What Is Autism? Understanding a Spectrum of Experiences

Autism is a lifelong developmental difference that affects how a person communicates, understands the world and relates to others. It is often described as a spectrum because no two autistic people are the same. Every autistic person has their own strengths, challenges and ways of experiencing life.

Some autistic people may need full time support, while others may only need extra time to process information or understand a situation. The spectrum is wide and individual needs vary greatly, which is why listening to each person’s experience is so important.

How the brain of someone with autism looks

Although every autistic person is unique, there are some traits that many experience in different ways. These can include:

• difficulty recognising or understanding the feelings of others and expressing their own

• finding bright lights, loud noises or crowded places stressful or upsetting

• preferring routine and feeling anxious or unsettled by sudden changes or unfamiliar situations

• having strong, highly focused interests or hobbies

• needing more time to understand information or respond during conversations

These traits reflect a different way of processing the world. They are not faults or weaknesses. They are simply part of how an autistic brain works.

Differences between an Autistic Brain and a Neurotypical Brain

Alongside challenges, many autistic people feel that their differences bring real strengths too. Creativity, determination, deep focus and a strong sense of acceptance are qualities that many autistic people describe as positive parts of their identity.

Trevor Sherwood is the Creator and Chief Executive of LilyAnne's Wellbeing.

At LilyAnne’s Wellbeing, we understand that traditional services can feel overwhelming or inaccessible for autistic people. Trevor Sherwood, Creator of LilyAnne’s Wellbeing, who has a diagnosis for three conditions within the spectrum of Dyslexia, Autism and ADHD explains it clearly:

“Autistic people often face barriers in services that are built around neurotypical expectations. The environment, the communication style and the pace can create stress before support even begins. We designed LilyAnne’s to remove these barriers so people feel understood from the moment they walk in.”

This is why all of our support is neurofriendly. Our approach is built around comfort, clarity and calm spaces, with staff who understand autism and ADHD through lived experience. People can take their time, choose how they communicate and access support in a way that feels safe and respectful.

Experiencing one or two of the traits listed above does not mean someone is autistic. Many people relate to some of these experiences. If these traits are always present and have a significant impact on daily life, speaking to a doctor or health professional about a diagnosis may help. A diagnosis can provide clarity and allow someone to access the right support.

Autism is not something to fix. It is a different way of experiencing the world. With awareness, patience and the right support, autistic people can thrive and feel fully included in everyday life.

If you or someone you know would like neurofriendly support, LilyAnne’s Wellbeing is here to help.