This is an excellent visual of the Autistic Spectrum by artist Rebecca Burgess. The spectrum definitely is not linear, or “mild to severe” Us Autistics have a range of strengths & challenges in different areas that differ from person to person. #Autism

On the areas in this picture, I have high Executive Functioning needs, my sensory needs are high- but not as high as many other Autistics. My language and motor needs are low (but I do have them, they are just hidden) and my perception needs are in the middle.

All of my Autistic friends will have different levels of needs in different areas, even if we appear to be similar to each other. No two Autistic people are the same, which is why the linear spectrum concept is so unhelpful.

The reason that I, and other Autistic people, dislike the terms “mild” or “severe” Autism so intensely is because it describes how you experience us. Most people who meet me experience my Autism mildly, but it has caused a lifetime of distress, upset and challenge for me.

So, you don’t need to describe us as mildly or severely Autistic. High functioning or low functioning (stop & think just how insulting it is to be called low functioning)! We are just Autistic, thanks.

P.S. everyone is NOT on the spectrum

I had tried to find the artist on Twitter before I posted but couldn’t, so could only share her name. But another Tweeter has just located her, so thank you Rebecca Burgess @theorah for your amazing and inspirational picture