Autism
Autism is a lifelong difference in how people experience the world and communicate. It is not an illness, and understanding and support can help.
- Updated August 2026
- Clinical review pending
- 1 source
At a glance
- Autism is a lifelong difference in how the brain works — it is not an illness.
- Getting an assessment can open the door to understanding and support.
On this page (2 sections)
Overview
Autism is a lifelong difference in how people communicate and experience the world around them. Autistic people are all different, and being autistic is not an illness or something that needs to be “cured” [1].
Getting support
If you think you or your child may be autistic, a GP can talk with you and refer you for an assessment. A diagnosis can help you get understanding and support at home, school or work [1].
Sources
- NHS. Mental health (opens in new tab) Accessed 12 August 2026.
About this page
- Written by
- Consumer Health editorial team
- Medical review
- Pending — this page has not yet been reviewed by a named clinician. Read our medical review policy.
- Last updated
- August 2026
- Next review due
- August 2027
Important: This information is for general guidance only and does not replace professional medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional — such as your GP or pharmacist — for advice about your individual circumstances, and do not start, stop or change any prescribed treatment based only on this page. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 999. Consumer Health is an independent health-information resource and is not the NHS or a government body.
Was this page helpful?Your feedback helps us improve.