Autism
A community that gets sensory differences.
Autism spectrum disorder encompasses a wide range of experiences. Autistic people often have a unique way of perceiving the world, with deep interests, sensitivity to sensory input, and a preference for honesty and directness.
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by differences in social communication and interaction, sensory processing, and patterns of behaviour and interests.
Late diagnosis is common — particularly among women and girls, who are more likely to have masked autistic traits to fit social expectations, often at significant psychological cost.
Autistic burnout — profound exhaustion caused by sustained masking and sensory or social overload — is an increasingly recognised consequence of environments that fail to accommodate neurodivergent needs.
Recognisable traits
- Deep, passionate special interests
- Clear and direct communication
- Strong sense of fairness and honesty
Challenges
- Sensory overload in everyday environments
- Social and communicative differences misread as rudeness
- Masking and camouflaging autistic traits at personal cost
- Autistic burnout
- Demand avoidance (PDA profile)
- Executive function difficulties
What can help?
Evidence-based research
We are expanding these pages with accessible summaries of recent scientific research — covering interventions, coaching approaches, therapy techniques, and support strategies that research has shown to be most effective.
ND-Link for Autism
A community built around neurodivergent connection.
- Match on sensory profile and social energy
- No small talk required — go straight to depth
- Find people who share your passions