02/04/2026
Did you know April 2nd is World Autism Day? Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect how individuals perceive the world and interact with others. According to a recent study, autism affects 1 in 127 people globally.
To help raise awareness and promote understanding of autism, we thought we’d share some of the lived experiences of our members.
A.T: I was diagnosed 5 years ago. At first I went to the Autism Diagnostic Center with my mum and after that my psychiatrist gave me a definite diagnosis. I felt confused because I didn't understand what it meant. My psychiatrist and relatives explained it to me. I find it difficult communicating with people and being touched. I believe that people need to have more knowledge about autism to help with the stereotypes.
A.E: I have difficulty interacting with people, which I find frustrating. I also suffer from sensory overload. Noise levels, in particular, can be a real issue. Confined spaces, such as the cinema, can be difficult (I always try to sit in the first seat of the first row.) It’s better if I initiate touch rather than being touched. Sometimes I shut down and I need people to give me space. I feel that autism is not fully understood by the general public. There is a stereotype, based on the most severe cases, which ignores the fact that autism is a broad spectrum which includes a diverse range of experiences. Interaction needs to be more individualized.
