Navigating Autism
Your Questions Answered
Intellectual disabilities emerge before a child turns 18, while developmental disabilities can appear at a very young age.
What Are Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities?
Intellectual and developmental disabilities are mental and physical differences that can affect a person’s ability to learn, reason, solve problems, manage their emotions and live independently. It’s not uncommon for a person with autism to also have an intellectual disability.
While some people with intellectual and developmental disabilities may need high levels of support from caregivers, others can drive, work and raise families — just like anyone else.
Examples of developmental disabilities include autism, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Down syndrome.
Key Statistics
Autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities significantly impact individuals and families worldwide, highlighting the need for specialized support, early intervention and inclusive services to enhance quality of life.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
1 in 31
1 in 31 children in the U.S. have autism.
5M
Over 5M adults in the U.S. have autism.
20%
20% of autistic adults are employed.
3X
Boys are 3x more likely to be diagnosed.
18X
Demand for autism treatment outpaces supply by 18x.
25-30%
25-30% of children with autism have minimal language abilities.
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
1 in 6
1 in 6 children ages 3-17 have a developmental disability.
6.5M
6.5M people in the U.S. have an intellectual disability.
28.7%
28.7% of adults in the U.S. currently live with some type of disability.
Autism Myths
While there is a lot of great information available on autism, misconceptions remain.
To help reduce confusion and ensure people with autism receive the support and understanding they deserve, we’ve busted five common myths.
Myth 1: Vaccines or Tylenol (acetaminophen) cause autism.
There is no evidence vaccines cause autism. Autism is most likely caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, like:
- Being born prematurely or to older parents
- Complications at birth
- Genetic conditions
- Having a sibling or other family member with autism
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) does not cause autism. Some studies have suggested small links, but they can’t prove cause and are influences by other factors like illness or fever. Major reviews find the evidence weak and not conclusive. Doctors say it’s safe to use as directed and parents should talk with their provider about any concerns.
Source: BioMed Central.
Myth 2: Everyone with autism has savant skills.
Some people with autism do have extraordinary skills in areas such as music, math or art, but most do not. However, individuals with autism do often become very interested in a particular subject, so they may know more about it than the general population. The best way to learn about someone’s strengths and abilities is getting to know them.
Myth 3: People with autism do not feel emotions.
Individuals with autism have the same range of emotions and feelings as everyone else. They may just express them in less obvious ways.
It can be challenging for people with autism to understand the emotions and body language of others, which can create the perception that someone is acting cold or uncaring when that was not their intent.
Myth 4: Individuals with autism can’t speak.
Each person with autism communicates differently. Some people speak in full sentences while others, who are nonverbal, express themselves using gestures, body language, sign language or electronic devices.
Myth 5: Autism can be cured.
There is no cure for autism. However, there are different treatment options available that can reduce the severity of symptoms and help individuals reach their full potential.
For example, early intervention can help children under the age of three learn new skills and increase their success in life. Another way to help people with autism lead happy, fulfilling lives is by simply embracing their uniqueness.
How To Recognize the Signs in Yourself or a Loved One
Typically appearing by age three, autism is a lifelong condition that affects people of all different walks of life, ethnicities and genders. Often, individuals with autism find social communications and interactions challenging. They may also have restricted, repetitive behaviors or interests.
Because the spectrum is so broad, every person with autism has their own set of unique needs, talents and experiences. But for everyone, the first step is the same: getting a diagnosis.
Overlapping Conditions
Individuals with autism often live with associated conditions.
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Epilepsy
- Digestive problems
- Sleeping disorders
Common Signs of Autism
If you recognize these behaviors in yourself or a loved one, consider taking our complimentary screener for autism spectrum disorder.
The signs and symptoms of autism can vary widely from person to person. Autism symptoms may start to emerge within the first year of a person’s life, or they may not appear until they are in school or even later. Not all people with autism are the same — one person with autism may have trouble making eye contact while another does not.
- Delayed speech and language skills
- Avoiding eye contact
- Repeating words or phrases
- Getting upset by minor changes
- Narrow or obsessive interests
- Hand flapping, body rocking or spinning in circles
- Hyperactive, impulsive or inattentive behavior
- Sensitivity to sounds, lights, smells, touch and pain