ASD/Asperger’s syndrome

ASD, which stands for Autism Spectrum Disorder, is a neuropsychiatric condition.  ASD is a collective term for a range of neuropsychiatric conditions that mean a different way of communicating and relating socially. One form of ASD is called Asperger’s syndrome.

What is the cause of ASD/Asperger’s?

ASD/Asperger’s is due to the brain functioning differently, and the causes are usually genetic. ASD/Asperger’s is congenital and is ordinarily noticed in early childhood. The diagnosis is more common in boys than in girls, but the diagnosis is more difficult to establish in girls, where the condition frequently does not appear until much later.

What is it like to have ASD/Asperger’s?

Having ASD/Asperger’s may mean having special interests that you devote a lot of time to. You also have a hard time understanding social codes and how you should interact and communicate, something that is obvious to other people but not to you. You are extra sensitive to sensory stimuli such as touch, sound and smell. Having ASD/Asperger’s can be an asset. You often have perseverance, you are thorough and you have the ability to concentrate on one thing for a long time.

ASD/Asperger’s may result in impairment

Having ASD/Asperger’s means that you may be extra sensitive to stress, and you may be prone to anxiety, depression and obsessions as a result. Changes large and small in your environment may also be difficult. Since you can’t control your way of operating, you may be easily misunderstood by others. It’s common for schools and workplaces not to always provide you with what you need for your particular condition. Thus knowledge and understanding from those around you are extremely important.

ASD/Asperger’s varies from person to person

The autism spectrum is broad, and it may vary a lot from person to person and take different forms. Your way of perceiving the world, solving problems and your intellectual capabilities also play a major role.

Where can I seek help?

If you believe you have ASD/Asperger’s, you should contact a health centre or psychiatric clinic, where you will receive assistance in evaluating whether you indeed have ASD/Asperger’s, or if there may be other reasons for your difficulties. The first step is usually to meet a doctor or psychologist who performs an initial evaluation. Next you undergo an examination that indicates whether you have ASD/Asperger’s or not.

What sort of help can I receive?

You can receive means of assistance and support at school, at work and in your daily life. Demands, expectations and the environment need to be adapted to your way of operating avoid stress and anxiety.