Autism has become an increasingly prevalent topic in recent years, with more people than ever before discussing and raising awareness of the challenges that autistic individuals face. Despite this, there is still a great deal of misinformation surrounding autism, which can make it difficult for individuals on the spectrum to navigate the world around them.
As an advocate and mother to three neurodivergent children, it is my goal to help increase understanding and awareness of autism so that individuals on the spectrum can be adequately supported in all areas of their lives and treated fairly, equally and with dignity and respect.
So, what exactly is autism? Autism is a neurological difference that affects the way that individuals process and respond to sensory information. Autistic individuals may have heightened sensitivity to light, sound, touch, taste, and smell, which can make it challenging to navigate the world around them.
Social interactions, communication, and repetitive behaviours can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations. Autism is a spectrum disorder, which means that there is a wide range of ways in which it can present for each person. It is important to recognise that autism is not a one-size-fits-all condition, and that there is no single “correct” way to be autistic.
This Autism Acceptance Month, I want to increase understanding of the lives of autistic people. Here are six things autistic people want society to know about autism:
It Looks Different for Everyone
Autism manifests uniquely in each individual, so meeting one person with autism means you have met one individual. It is important to note that stereotypes of autism in popular culture do not represent the diverse experiences of individuals on the spectrum.
What Stimming Is
Autistic individuals have unique sensory perceptions and may sometimes become overwhelmed by their environment. As a coping mechanism, autistics may engage in self-soothing behaviours, known as stimming, such as rocking, humming, or chewing, which can aid in concentration and reduce anxiety.
It’s crucial to approach stimming with an open mind and flexibility, as accepting and understanding behaviour from others provides a secure environment for autistic individuals to learn how to regulate themselves and adapt to their surroundings.
Getting a Diagnosis Isn’t Easy
Obtaining a diagnosis of autism can be a difficult and costly process. It often involves multiple assessments, evaluations, and consultations with medical professionals, therapists, and educators. These assessments can be time-consuming and may require significant financial resources.
Furthermore, autism is often misdiagnosed or overlooked in individuals, particularly in women and girls, who may present with different symptoms than their male counterparts. This can result in delayed diagnosis and access to much-needed support and resources.
Autistic People Bring Valuable Diversity
Autistic individuals can bring valuable diversity to organisations, as they often have unique ways of thinking and problem-solving. It is important for organisations to recognise the value of neurodiversity and actively work to promote inclusion and support for all individuals, including those on the autism spectrum. This can lead to increased innovation, productivity, and employee satisfaction, as well as a more diverse and equitable workplace culture.
Employment Is Important
Employment can be a source of pride and fulfillment. Through employment, individuals can contribute to society, develop new skills, and build relationships with co-workers and community members. Employment can also provide financial stability and independence. Having a steady income can allow individuals to live more independently, access needed healthcare, support services, and pursue their goals and interests.
A Meltdown Is Not a Tantrum
Meltdowns are not the same as tantrums, especially in the case of individuals on the autism spectrum. A tantrum is a behaviour that is typically used by young children to get what they want, while a meltdown is a reaction to overwhelming sensory input or emotional distress.
During a meltdown, an individual may become completely overwhelmed and experience intense feelings of anxiety, frustration, or fear. This can lead to physical and emotional outbursts, such as screaming, crying, or lashing out. The individual may lose control of their actions or ability to communicate, making it difficult for them to express what they are feeling or to respond to attempts to comfort or reason with them.
It is important to approach meltdowns with empathy and understanding, as they are not intentional acts of misbehaviour or manipulation. Providing a calm and supportive environment, offering sensory accommodations or tools to help regulate emotions, and validating the individual’s feelings can all be helpful strategies for managing meltdowns.
Acceptance Is Key
One of the most important things that autistic individuals want is acceptance. This means being accepted for who they are, without judgement or stigma based on their differences. Acceptance means recognising and valuing neurodiversity, and understanding that differences in behaviour, communication, and social interaction are not inherently negative or problematic.
For many autistic individuals, the desire for acceptance is closely tied to the experiences of bullying, discrimination, and exclusion that they may face in their daily lives. Autistic individuals at times may struggle to fit in with neurotypical social norms and expectations, leading to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. Acceptance can help to counteract these negative experiences and promote a sense of belonging and self-worth.
It’s important for society as a whole to work towards greater acceptance of autistic individuals, including in areas such as education, employment, and social settings. This can involve promoting awareness and understanding of autism, challenging stereotypes and misconceptions, and actively working to create inclusive and accommodating environments.
By promoting acceptance, we can help to create a society that values diversity and recognises the unique contributions of all individuals, regardless of neurotype.
Ultimately, my goal as an ally and advocate for the autistic community is to promote acceptance, understanding, and respect for autistic individuals. By recognising the strengths and talents of individuals on the spectrum, and by supporting them in their areas of challenge, we can help them to reach their full potential and contribute to society in meaningful ways.
I encourage everyone to learn more about autism, to listen to the voices and experiences of individuals on the spectrum, and the community that supports them and to become an ally in the fight for autism acceptance and inclusion.
Kathrine Peereboom is the founder and CEO of Spectrum Support Ltd and the founder of the Global Voluntary Disclosure Project (GVDP), organisations that are both established and emerging in supporting vulnerable communities. You can find out more on her website, here.
