Is Autism a Mental Illness or a Developmental Disorder?

Autism is not a mental illness, it’s a developmental disorder that affects how the brain processes information related to communication, behavior, and social interaction. Known clinically as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it begins in early childhood and influences how individuals perceive and engage with the world around them.

Unlike mental illnesses, which can develop at any point in life and often involve mood or emotional disturbances, autism is lifelong and neurological in nature. That means the brain develops differently, leading to unique strengths and challenges in areas such as speech, social skills, and sensory processing.

While autism itself isn’t a mental illness, individuals with ASD may also experience conditions like anxiety or ADHD, which can be effectively managed with the right support and therapy.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is one of the most effective ways to help children with autism build essential life skills, improve communication, and gain confidence in daily routines.

At Milestone Achievement, we provide compassionate, personalized ABA therapy in Georgia to help children thrive in every area of life.

Want to learn how ABA can support your child’s development? Contact us today!

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SOURCE:

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-disorders

https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-most-common-mental-health-disorders-and-how-do-they-affect-daily-life

https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/autism/what-is-autism-spectrum-disorder

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd

https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/publications/health-matters/what-is-autism