Autism: A Neurodevelopmental Disorder that Doesn’t Have to Be Lifelong

By Marina Zhang

October 17, 2025Updated:October 27, 2025

Medically reviewed byJimmy Almond, M.D.

Part 1

Autism: A Neurodevelopmental Disorder that Doesn’t Have to Be Lifelong

Part 2

The Problems With an Expanding Autism Diagnosis

Part 3

Autism Has 2 Main Genetic Drivers–How Treatments Can Help

Part 4

Certain Nutrients May Help Autistic Kids, Here’s Why

Part 5

Mitochondrial Dysfunction: An Underlying Driver of Autism and What May Help

0:00

Unlike depression or anxiety, autism is not classified as a mental illness. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder.

Autism’s distinction as a neurodevelopmental disorder sets it apart in terms of treatment and potential for improvement compared to other psychiatric conditions.

We had a problem loading this article. Please enable javascript or use a different browser. If the issue persists, please visit our help center.

The Autism Puzzle

Part 1

Autism: A Neurodevelopmental Disorder that Doesn’t Have to Be Lifelong

Part 2

The Problems With an Expanding Autism Diagnosis

Part 3

Autism Has 2 Main Genetic Drivers–How Treatments Can Help

Part 4

Certain Nutrients May Help Autistic Kids, Here’s Why

Part 5

Mitochondrial Dysfunction: An Underlying Driver of Autism and What May Help