Autism is Not a Disease: Debunking the Myths and Celebrating Neurodivergent Strengths

By: Lindsey Williams, M.Ed.

If there's one thing I wish more people understood, it's this: Autism is not a disease. It is a neurodevelopmental difference—an integral part of human diversity, not something to be "cured" or "fixed."

The language we use matters. For too long, society has spoken about autism in the same breath as illnesses and various pathologies, perpetuating harmful myths that hurt autistic individuals and their families. As an autism mother who has spent the last decade being on the receiving end of a lot of misinformation, I'd love to do my part to help change that narrative.

Autism is a Neurotype, Not an Illness

Autism is classified as a neurodevelopmental condition, meaning the brain processes information differently than what is considered "neurotypical." According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), autism is characterized by differences in social communication and restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior and interests. While I believe that this definition could be expanded because not every child will fit these classifications, I want to be clear that nowhere in legitimate medical literature is autism described as a "disease."

Diseases are typically defined as conditions that cause harmful biological changes, often with a known pathogen (like a virus or bacteria). Autism, however, is about brain wiring. It's an inborn variation of human neurology—similar to differences in which hand you write with, which foods you prefer, your personality, or your sensory preferences.

A powerful piece of research that shifted thinking around autism is the "Double Empathy Problem" theory, which suggests that communication difficulties between autistic and non-autistic people are mutual misunderstandings, not deficits on the autistic side alone. (Milton, D., 2012) This challenges the outdated idea that autistic individuals are inherently "broken" and instead highlights that they experience and interact with the world differently.

In my personal experience as a mother and through my professional capacity at Ready, Steady, Grow Edu!, I have seen firsthand how damaging the "disease" narrative can be—and how relaxing and rewarding it is when we begin to view autism as a natural part of human variation where both children and their parents feel safe and secure to be themselves.

The Challenges and the Strengths of Neurodivergence

That's not to say autism doesn't come with real challenges. Both children and their parents are frequently in a constant state of fight or flight. I believe it's primarily because Autistic individuals often navigate a world that wasn't built with their sensory systems, communication styles, or processing needs in mind. Sensory overload, difficulties with change, and anxiety are common, not because autism is a disease, but because society lacks a coherent understanding, and there is not enough support out there.

While this is not meant to stereotype or perpetuate generalizations, I will say from personal experience that I believe autistic individuals can have incredible strengths:

• Deep Focus: Many can hyper-focus on their interests, leading to mastery and innovation.

• Honesty and Authenticity: Autistic individuals are often profoundly genuine, valuing truth and integrity.

• Creative Problem-Solving: Thinking outside the box isn't a catchphrase; it's a lived reality.

• Detail Orientation: What others miss, autistic minds often catch, making them gifted scientists, artists, engineers, and thinkers.

  
  

As a parent, educator, and advocate, I see the extraordinary potential in neurodivergent kids every single day. Their insights, loyalty, kindness, and brilliance are awe-inspiring when we take the time to understand and nurture them. And, when people say "I'm sorry" when I mention my children are autistic, I say thank you, but I wouldn't change a thing. You see, the intention is usually kind and well-meaning from others, but these variations are what give my children incredible gifts and are part of what makes them uniquely them.

How to Be a True Ally to the Autistic Community

First, I want to say that I can't speak for an entire community. Speaking for myself and my own experience, I have compiled a short list with suggestions of ways you can support autistic individuals and their families, not just in April for Autism Awareness, but in your daily interactions from now on.

✅ Change Your Language: Stop using terms like "suffering from autism." Instead, use affirming language: "living with autism" or simply "autistic person," respecting individual preferences.

✅ Listen to Autistic Voices: Seek out and learn from autistic adults who share their experiences. No one understands autism better than those who live it.

✅ Accommodate, Don't Erase: Respect sensory needs, communication differences, and routines. Don't expect autistic individuals to mask or "fit in"—meet them where they are.

✅ Challenge Ableism: Call out jokes, stereotypes, or misinformation about autism whenever you hear them. Education changes minds—and hearts.

✅ Celebrate, Don't Pity: Acknowledge the strengths and celebrate the individuality of autistic people instead of framing their existence through a deficit lens.

At Ready, Steady, Grow Edu, we believe that the heart of advocacy is this: Every child deserves to be celebrated exactly as they are, not fixed, not cured, but supported and honored.

Autism isn’t a disease. It’s a part of the beautiful spectrum of what it means to be human. When we let go of outdated beliefs and choose to see the brilliance in neurodivergent minds, we create a world where everyone can thrive.

And honestly? That’s the kind of world I want to raise my children in.

Meet Lindsey Williams, M.Ed

Lindsey Williams is the founder of Ready, Steady, Grow Edu, a supportive hub for families of neurodiverse children. As an autism mom, certified parenting coach through the Jai Institute for Parenting, and experienced educator, Lindsey combines personal understanding with professional expertise. She holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Rhodes College, a master's in Urban Education from Union University, and specialized graduate certifications in Autism and Child Development from the University of Memphis and Stanford University. Through Ready, Steady, Grow Edu, Lindsey is committed to empowering parents, honoring neurodiversity, and creating spaces where all children and families can thrive.

If you're interested in learning more about Autism, finding social groups for your child, or gaining parenting support as you navigate this neurodiverse journey, reach out to her today!

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