About autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

Learn about autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

What is ASD?

ASD is a neurological disorder that affects how the brain functions. The exact cause of ASD is not known.

The way ASD affects an individual can vary a lot from person to person. It depends on how many symptoms a person experiences and how severe each symptom is.

A person with ASD may find it hard to connect with other people. They may:

• have difficulty communicating
• have difficulty with social situations
• repeat certain patterns of behaviour
• show interest in a limited number of activities and interests

These behaviours can happen at school, home or work.  Having ASD can greatly affect everyday activities.

Because no one person with ASD is the same, treatments and therapies are based on each person's needs.