Understanding Autism: Beyond Myths and Misunderstandings

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), isn’t a single “type” of person or experience — it’s a broad spectrum of ways people think, feel, and interact with the world. I was officially diagnosed in April 2025, at age 35, but autism has always been part of who I am. Getting that diagnosis didn’t change me — it just gave me the words and understanding for what I’d always known inside.

Unfortunately, a lot of myths still surround autism, and they can cause real harm. So, let’s break down some truths — with a bit of my own experience mixed in.

1. Autism is Neurological, Not a Disease

Autism is part of a person’s brain wiring. It’s not something that can be “cured” — and it’s not something that needs to be. I’ve had people treat my autism like a problem to be fixed, but the truth is, the things that make me different also give me unique strengths — like my love for history, my focus when working on classic cars, and my deep curiosity about the world.

2. The Spectrum is Diverse

You might hear “high-functioning” or “low-functioning,” but those terms oversimplify things. For example, I can be amazing at remembering historical dates, but at work, I sometimes struggle to hear people clearly if there’s background noise. I’ve learned that my needs can change from day to day — some days I handle social situations well, and other days I get overwhelmed fast.

3. Sensory Differences Are Real

For me, certain noises, bright lights, or too many people talking at once can make my brain feel like it’s short-circuiting. I’ve had to step away from situations because the sound of clanging tools or overlapping voices becomes too much. That’s not “being picky” — it’s my nervous system reacting in real time. My weighted blanket, stim toys, and quiet spaces aren’t luxuries — they’re essential tools that help me function.

4. Autistic Communication Styles Vary

I speak a lot, but I don’t always process what people say the same way others do. There are times at work when I think someone said one thing, but they actually said something completely different — and it leads to funny misunderstandings. I used to keep saying “What?” but got tired of the reactions, so sometimes I just smile and nod, even if I’m lost. Communication is a two-way street, and I appreciate when people meet me halfway.

5. Acceptance Matters More Than Awareness

Awareness tells people autism exists. Acceptance says, “We see you, we value you, and we’ll work to make the world a better fit for you.” I don’t want to be tolerated — I want to be understood. When people accept my need for breaks, my quiet time, or my stim toys without judgment, I feel seen for who I am.

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Final Thought: Autism is not about being “broken” or “less than” — it’s simply a different way of experiencing life. By sharing my story, I hope others can see that while autism comes with challenges, it also comes with strengths, passions, and a unique way of connecting with the world. Acceptance starts with listening — really listening — to autistic voices.

About the Author

Hi, I’m Caleb — an autistic, non-binary writer, classic car enthusiast, and coin collector. I share my experiences to help others understand autism from the inside, with honesty and heart. When I’m not blogging, you’ll probably find me reading about history, working on old engines, or enjoying quiet moments with my favorite safe foods.