Category: Neurodiversity

Research indicates that, on average, autistic youth are less physically active than their non-autistic peers, and some face challenges with motor skills. This reality prompts a deeper look into the misconception that being on the spectrum makes one either inherently unathletic or predisposed to athletic greatness. So, are autistic people more athletic?

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.

Sensory processing differences are far more common than most people realize, affecting as many as 1 in 20 people to some degree. For those with these challenges, a fundamental question often arises: do sensory issues change over time, or are they a permanent part of one's experience?

In May 2021, tech mogul Elon Musk publicly revealed during a 'Saturday Night Live' appearance that he has Asperger's syndrome, prompting widespread discussion about what is Elon Musk's medical problem?. This candid admission provided insight into the neurodivergence that influences his unique approach to business and communication.

In 2021, during his opening monologue as host of *Saturday Night Live*, tech entrepreneur Elon Musk publicly disclosed that he has Asperger’s syndrome, which is now classified under Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This revelation immediately put the question of what disability does Elon Musk have into the public spotlight and sparked a global conversation about neurodiversity in leadership and high-profile positions.

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.

Research indicates a higher rate of comorbidity, with studies suggesting up to 17% of autistic individuals may also meet the criteria for OCD. The potential to have both ASD and OCD is not only possible but also presents unique diagnostic and treatment considerations.

The misconception that the acronym ASA refers to a neurodivergent condition is a common point of confusion, but ASA is not a neurological diagnosis. This article clarifies the various meanings of ASA and explains why it is not categorized as neurodivergent.

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.