Autism is a mental condition present from early childhood that is characterized by difficulties in communication, forming relationships, and using language. While it was once thought to be a symptom of schizophrenia, autism involves challenges such as an inability to easily communicate with others, specialized interests, sensitivity to sensations, and difficulty with physical coordination. Many myths exist, including that all autistics are the same or can be categorized as high or low functioning, but autism is nearly impossible to define as a whole given the diversity of experiences.