Social & communication
Challenges with reciprocity, eye contact, facial expression, and reading irony or subtext.
The autism guide
Autism – your guide to symptoms, assessment, and support
Autism appears early in life and exists on a spectrum. Two people can share the same diagnosis but have very different support needs. This guide helps you understand what autism is, how diagnoses are made, and how daily life can be adapted.
Why this guide?
Rikta Psychiatry’s team gathered what you need to know – without heavy medical jargon.
- Clear definitions: what autism is (and is not).
- Practical tools for home, school, and work.
- How an assessment is done and what to expect.
Basics
What is autism?
Autism describes a way of functioning that affects social interaction, communication, and flexibility. The spectrum means two people can have the same diagnosis but very different strengths, interests, and support needs.
In the 1940s Leo Kanner and Hans Asperger described similar patterns in children. Explanations that blamed parents have long been dismissed – we now know causes are complex and include genetic, biological, and environmental factors.
Symptoms
How can autism show up?
Each person has a unique profile of strengths and challenges. Many also have clear strengths in detail focus, concentration, and honesty.
Patterns & interests
Repetitive behaviors, need for routines, and intense interests that create focus but also inflexibility.
Sensory
Sensitivity to sound, light, touch, or smells. Overload can lead to fatigue or shutdown.
Communication styles
Some communicate mainly in writing or with support tools. Responses can take time – clarity and patience help.
Diagnostics
Diagnostic criteria (DSM-5 – in brief)
Two criteria must be met – and impact daily life across settings.
1. Social communication
Persistent difficulties with reciprocity, communication, and relationships.
2. Restricted & repetitive behaviors
At least several aspects such as stereotypies, need for routines, special interests, or sensory differences.
Support needs
The diagnosis also notes support level, co-occurring conditions (e.g., ADHD), and cognitive profile.
Variations
How does autism show?
Visibility is shaped by age, demands, and strategies.
Degree & age
Most apparent when demands rise (preschool, school, new environments). Adults may have developed working strategies.
Gender & masking
Many girls/women mask by copying and over-performing – a strategy that costs energy and can lead to burnout.
Context-dependent
Difficulties show where demands are highest – socially, with changes, or when special interests must be interrupted.
Assessment
Autism assessment – how it works
Public and private assessments follow the same building blocks.
Medical review
A physician maps health and rules out other causes.
Psychological assessment
Structured interviews on strengths, challenges, and timeline from childhood.
Family input
Parents or partner add context to capture everyday life.
Forms & tests
Self-ratings and neuropsychological tests are weighed in.
Feedback
Clear results, diagnosis if criteria are met, and recommendations for study, work, and daily life.
Parents
Being a parent to a child with autism
Pride in your child’s interests can coexist with worries about school, friendships, and the future.
- Education: parent programs and habilitation provide tools.
- Support groups: in-person or online forums reduce isolation.
- Visual routines: schedules, timers, and preparation create safety.
- Involvement: plan together with your child to strengthen control and confidence.
Daily strategies
What can you do yourself?
Small, consistent adaptations make a big difference day to day.
Create structure
Daily routines, visual schedules, and clear answers to what, when, how long, and what happens next.
Sensory environment
Dim sound and light, create a calm space, and use aids (ear protection, tactile objects) when needed.
Support interests
Let special interests drive learning and motivation.
Clear communication
Be concrete, avoid ambiguity that causes stress, and respect alternative communication methods.
School & work
Clear instructions, reduced distractions, room for breaks, and flexibility in tasks.
Social support & independence
Social skills training, help expressing needs, and stepwise plans for independence.
Professional support
Behavior therapy, occupational therapy, psychoeducation, and family support ease daily life for everyone involved.
Book a free consultation
You get a slot within 48 hours – by video or phone at times that suit you.
Cost: 0 SEK. The call is led by a psychologist who guides you toward assessment or other support.