Autism: Understanding the Misconception

There are frequent discussions about whether autism is becoming the new 'normal.' The truth is, autism is just being recognized more than it was 20 to 30 years ago. As a result, more people are now receiving the support and help they need, which wasn't always the case. They didn't receive it because of a 'new normal,' but rather because of a better understanding and improved diagnosis methods.

The misconception lies in the belief that autism is becoming more common. While we are indeed better at diagnosing people who don't present in a 'typically autistic' way, this greater awareness is leading to more individuals getting the support they need. This, in turn, makes it seem more prevalent, but the actual statistics do not support the idea that autism is a part of the new normal.

Autism is a very debilitating psychological disability. Despite the growing awareness and support, it remains a significant challenge for many individuals on the spectrum. While a few can function effectively in society, a majority cannot. This is far from normal.

It's important to separate the understanding of autism from the idea of it being a 'new normal.' As Hannah explained, the diagnosis being more recognized does not mean that it is becoming the new 'normal.' Instead, it means that more people are being properly diagnosed and receiving the support they need.

Autism is a lifelong condition, and it is diagnosed by doctors, not by online speculation. Many of us with autism do not wish for a diagnosis, as it was a result of correct observations made by healthcare professionals. The experience of having a diagnosis is routine and familiar for doctors, but autism remains a lifelong challenge.

Some might argue that the internet has made the condition seem more common because it's our playground. Online, we are able to communicate in simple text, and we find ourselves more at home engaging through these platforms. However, this does not mean that autism is becoming the new 'normal.'

For many of us, autism is our normal. We were born with it and will die with it. We have had and continue to have numerous challenges, and our lives are far from 'normal.' Being born and raised in this condition has allowed us to adapt and feel at ease with it. We do not seek a 'normal' life, as we do not know what it's like to be neurotypical. What we do seek is understanding and acceptance.

In conclusion, autism is not becoming the new 'normal.' It remains a lifelong challenge for many individuals, and the focus should be on greater understanding and acceptance, not on the idea of it becoming more common.