Autism

Getting a diagnosis (when a doctor or healthcare professional tests you) of autistic spectrum disorder might help you to understand why certain things have been happening. And it might explain why you've been feeling a certain way. But finding out you have autism can also leave you feeling worried and confused.

It can help to think of a diagnosis as a way of getting the right support. Once diagnosed, there's lots of help your doctor, school and local council can arrange for you. Getting the support and help you need can make things easier.

You might have lots of questions you want to ask, like:

• what will happen next?
• what treatment and support will I get?
• will it affect my life?
• will things change at school?

You might be given something called an ‘Education, Health and Care plan’ (EHC plan) which describes what extra help you might need. If you’re unsure or have any questions, then talking about what you think can really help.

If you have questions, you can ask:

• your doctor 
• a parent/carer or other adult you trust
• a teacher or another adult at school
• a Childline counsellor

Even if they don't know all the answers, talking about what you think and how you feel can really help.

Autism can make it difficult to communicate with people around you. This might make you feel scared and anxious in social situations.

Some people might not realise they have to communicate with you in a way that you'll understand more easily.

You might:

• find it difficult to explain how you’re feeling
• have problems answering certain questions
• struggle to understand expressions people make. You might also find it difficult to understand emotions that other people feel
• take longer to think through and understand what someone has said to you
• find it scary trying to speak to new people
• feel stressed about getting involved in social situations

Routines can give be comforting and help you feel relaxed, but sometimes they can make it more difficult to make new friends. If you're struggling talking to new people, why not try:

• practicing a conversation. You could do this with someone at home, or even with a Childline counsellor
• make a list of things you'd like to say before you approach someone. This can make it less scary because you'll already have some ideas of what to say
• use our letter builder to help you get your thoughts and ideas onto paper
• asking an adult for advice

If you're still struggling to make friends, you could try:

• joining a club where people have similar hobbies and interests to you
• attending local support groups for autistic people
• asking a teacher or your doctor for help finding someone to support you face-to-face
• get advice from the National Autistic Society.

You might be over- or under-sensitive to things you see, hear, touch, taste or smell. This is really common for anyone who's autistic. There are times when you might feel overwhelmed, and like your mind is running really fast.

You might find bright colours distracting or find loud noises upsetting or distressing. They can even make you feel like you're in pain. Understanding and organising lots of information can be very difficult and can sometimes lead to a meltdown.

If things start to get overwhelming, you can try:

• moving to a safe space which is quiet and calm
• distracting yourself with something you enjoy or find calming.

A meltdown is a powerful reaction you have when you feel overwhelmed. You might become overwhelmed by your senses, too much information or your emotions.

A meltdown can be scary and you might feel out of control and unable to stop yourself. You can try:

• asking someone for help, or asking them to take you somewhere quiet
• take slow and deep breaths

Eventually, the meltdown will stop. You might be left feeling physically and emotionally exhausted.

Some autistic people can recognise when they're about to have a meltdown. Making a list of things that happen before a meltdown can help you notice patterns and being aware of triggers can help stop one from starting.

A meltdown is not the same as a temper tantrum and it's not your fault if you have one.

Puberty is when your body grows and changes to become an adult. It can affect you in lots of different ways, so it can help to talk about what’s happening.

During puberty, you might be worried about:

• changes in routines, or having to do new things
• problems with friends or people you go to school with
• understanding changes in your body or with how you feel
• having to learn about things like shaving, using deodorant, or what to do during a period
• relationships and sexual health.

If you’re worried or you have a question about something, it’s good to think about who you can talk to. It can help to speak to an adult you trust, like your parents, carers, a teacher or a school nurse. Think about what you’d like to ask them, and when the best time would be.

If you’re not sure who to ask, you could also send us a message or start a 1-2-1 chat.

Get more advice on puberty.