Category: Autism

Approximately 70% of autistic adults report regularly camouflaging or 'masking' their traits to fit in, a significant and often exhausting effort. This raises the question, **can someone be autistic and look normal**? The answer is more complex than a simple yes or no, centering on the immense energy spent on appearing neurotypical.

Recent research reveals that people with autism often face more, not fewer, health challenges compared to the general population. The question, **do people with autism get sick less?**, arises from a misunderstanding of how genetics, immune function, and various comorbidities interact with the autistic experience.

The concept of the triad of impairments, introduced in the late 1970s, fundamentally shaped the understanding of autism for decades. This model, centered on difficulties in social interaction, communication, and imagination, has undergone significant revision. So, do we still use the triad of impairments in modern diagnostic practices?

Introduced in 1979 by researchers Lorna Wing and Judith Gould, the triad of impairments was a foundational model for understanding the core challenges associated with autism. This framework significantly influenced the diagnostic process for decades, highlighting three key areas of difficulty that defined the condition at the time.

Following their acclaimed performance in *The Last of Us*, actor Bella Ramsey revealed their autism diagnosis in a candid interview, a moment they described as "freeing". This revelation shed light on their personal journey and offered insight into how neurodivergence impacts their life and work.