Mind matters

Right now, your brain needs to filter out all the distractions in the room - the sounds, lights, colours, textures and tastes.

People with Autistic Spectrum Disorder struggle to do this. In her new film, TV star Christine McGuinness discusses how her diagnosisThe process of identifying a condition, injury or disease by looking for the signs and symptoms of that condition. helped her "understand why I am the way I am".

Around 1% of children have autism.¹ Many struggle with social situations and oversensitivity.

Three times more boys than girls are diagnosed and experts say many girls go undetected.

Research suggests girls mask symptoms by copying others.² They learn "scripts" to manage situations and focus on hobbies like music and reading. So does a diagnosis matter?

It can be tough. "I hated my diagnosis," Alex told the UK's National Autistic Society. Aged 16, she was angry because she did not have a "superpower" like some autistic men on TV.

She did not speak much at school. But now she is a photographer, and her attention to detail helps her communicate with photos. "I find it magical."

Undiagnosed girls can blame themselves for problems at school. "A diagnosis can be life-changing and vital to getting care and support," says Peter Watt of the National Autistic Society.

Christine McGuinness says she can now explain to others why she needs a "time-out" when overwhelmed.

High-profile women encourage discussion about autism. Inspirational autistic women include activist Greta Thunberg, Olympic swimmer Jessica-Jane Applegate, and bestselling novelist Helen Hoang.

It is a myth that people with autism lack empathyThe capacity to understand and feel the suffering of others.. They have the same emotions as neurotypicalA person who thinks, behaves and sees the world in a way that is considered "the norm" by the general population. people but can have difficulty communicating them.

In the UK, only 22% of adults with autism are employed.³ Activists believe society must change to help them achieve their potential. And this will benefit everyone.

Yes: Everyone benefits from a greater understanding of our differences and strengths. Someone's diagnosis may not only save their life but also help them contribute to the world and save other lives too.

No: Some scientists say too many conditions are being diagnosed as autism. NeuroscientistNeuroscience is the study of the brain and nervous system. There is a lot of overlap between neuroscience and psychology, but neuroscientists tend to focus more on the way that nerves function. Uta Frith says the rise in diagnoses may make the autism label "meaningless" without better research.

Or... Autism may be an imprecise diagnosis that includes many different experiences. But raising awareness of neurodiversityThe idea that different people experience and interact with the world around them in different ways. will help society become more tolerant and accepting of differences.