Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that influences the ways one experiences the world around them, processes information, and interacts with others. It is said to be on a spectrum because persons are differently affected and to varied extents.
What Is Autism?
Autism is not an illness or disease. It is an inborn condition that affects an individual’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. Some may need support with day-to-day activities, while others live independently and even excel in many areas.
Typically, autism is described by core features including:
- Perturbances in communication and social interaction
- Characteristically repetitive behaviors with restricted interests
- Sensory hyper- or hypo-sensitivities (e.g., a tolerance or intolerance for noise, light, or touch)
- A preference for routine and predictability
Autism is not caused by poor parenting or emotional trauma. It is a biological condition having to do with genetic and cerebral pathology.
How to Recognize Autism in Yourself
Many of those with an autism diagnosis are diagnosed during childhood, but other groups, namely women, non-binary persons, and the mildly affected, might only realize they are autistic at an adolescent or adult stage.
Possible signs you may be on an autism spectrum:
- Feeling social disconnection, or feeling generally misunderstood
- Finding it difficult to understand body language, facial expressions, or tone of voice
- Making or keeping friends is hard
- Getting lost in focus over special topics or hobbies
- Feeling overwhelmed with too much sensory stimulation or working with unexpected changes
- Needing time to recharge or recuperate after social interactions
- Communicating in an extremely honest and direct, sometimes literal, manner
These traits are not issues-they just reflect another, but valid, way of experiencing the world.
How to Manage Autism on Your Own
Autism is not something to be “fixed,” so learning to cope with an environment that supports your needs will only promote well-being. These are a few self-care strategies:
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Know Your Strengths and Needs
Learn what times make you calm, focused, and comfortable. Knowing the triggers and your unique needs is the first step to daily decision making. -
Establish Routine
When someone is consistent and goes through the same routine, it reduces stress. Use calendars, reminders, or put together some type of visual schedule. -
Regulate Sensory Input
Do your senses give you chills to light, noise, or touch? You can customize the environment by just wearing sunglasses, using some sort of headphones, or opting for calming textures and fabrics. -
Follow Your Special Interests
Following your passion engenders more happiness and, for some, is the basis of really serious careers. -
Use Alternative Forms of Communication
If interactions seem difficult, some alternative means of communication such as scripts or journaling or text-based communication can be useful. -
Self-Acceptance
You don’t need to fit in to be worthy. Accept your true self and another definition of success that you set. -
Connect with the Autism Community
Connecting and sharing experiences with the community can help reduce feelings of isolation and boost self-confidence.
When to See a Doctor or Specialist
At the very least, you may consider seeking a professional recommendation if:
- You feel persistently anxious, depressed, or exhausted due to social or sensory stress
- You feel autistic and need clarity or a formal diagnosis
- You are having difficulty in, or with, work, training, or relationships because of autism-related condition
- You want to learn coping mechanisms and ways to access support
To give an evaluation and treatment recommendation for you or your child, a psychologist or developmental specialist might also provide therapies, including occupational therapy, social skills training, or mental health counseling.
Conclusion
Autism is a difference, not a deficiency. Give the mothers an understanding, self-awareness, and support; autistic individuals will be able to have rich, meaningful lives. If you suspect that you are on the autistic spectrum, considering it may be an empowering and healing journey toward self-acceptance.