Questions and Answers about Autism **Feel free to reply**
Hello Support Plus community,
As I recently aged up to the adult side, which isnt as scary as youd think it was, I figured its a perfect time to show the adult side, just how amazing our little but mighty community is here in Support Plus. What better way to show them then by making a new forum post with questions that all can answer and have a voice on? Also, as there are new mods on the adult side, it makes for a really cool way to show the mods what Autism is and how they can see the world the way we as a community do. I grabbed the questions from: https://themighty.com/topic/autism-spectrum-disorder/autistic-people-answer-questions-about-autism
And here are my answers to the questions.
- If you could tell the world one thing about Autism, what would it be?
If I could tell the world one thing about Autism, it would be that its not as hard to accept people who have autism and get to know them. as some people think it is. Simply saying hello to someone who has Autism, can change their mood in the moment.
2. What were some things that you were surprised to learn were connected to Autism?
I was surprised to learn just how many people have dual diagnosis when it comes to Autism. Knowing that anxiety and Autism are diagnosed together really was a shocker to me at first, because I didnt understand how they could work together, but after expierencing both for a few years now, it doesnt come as much of a shock to me as it used to.
3. What's a myth about Autism that you want to debunk?
The myth I have chosen to debunk about Autism, is that Autistic people are "anti-social". This is not true. We may appear anti-social, nervous, or we may communicate differently then the "normal" way of communicating, but no one on the spectrum wishes to be anti-social, rather they don't know how to properly communicate.
4. What do you love/and or dislike about Autism?
I love the continued education and acceptance when it comes to Autism and related traits. On the other hand, I dislike the views that people have towards the Autism community, I was told once that not all people will get it, but that doesnt mean that not all people can look up stuff about Autism, either on cups or using the internet. We want to continue to advocate for our community, but we need everyones help in doing so.
5. What are some things an autistic person should never feel ashamed about?
Someone who has autism should never feel ashamed about stimming, meltdowns, and communication difficulties. Stimming is our way of centering/grounding ourselves, it shouldnt matter in the way we do it. Meltdowns are out of our control, and they leave us feeling horribly due to that lack of control, dont shame a person whos on the autism spectrum for having a meltdown. Communication can represent itself in different ways as well and that is okay, coming from an ACC user myself.
6. Any final thoughts?
Be supportive. Listen. Don't judge someone off the ways they present themselves. Be willing to learn about us and with us, not against us.
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@sunshinegiraffe123
Welcome to the adult side, thank you for sharing your thoughtful considerations.
1. We are different, not disordered. We live in a world that is not designed to consider us, but we find ways. Diversity is strength, and that includes mental diversity.
2. Sensitivity to different foods.
3. Autists do not not naturally have mathematical talents - in fact many have dyscalculia. Autists are not all male - I am proud of many autists of all genders. Autists are not all of European descent - I know autists around the world, and I am grateful for each of them.
4. I love that we can speak directly and straightforwardly, and there's never hidden meanings. And I love that when we disagree I often see one side saying "ok, I see, that makes sense." We are more likely to find that place of accommodation. Dislike? That some are not clear how welcome they are. We are glad for more autists, including self or unsure diagnoses.
5. Rocking, pausing in speech, not knowing when to speak, being excited and eager to share about your interests.
6. For those who are different - i.e. for those who are not autistic - spend some time talking to us. We care and think deeply, and will be glad to share with you.
Thank you to anyone who reads, and thank you for the original topics. We are here, and we matter. I am especially proud of the original author as young voices are so strong and essential.
@mathetmess
I love how you address multiple myths!! I was going to do the gender one but the one I did stood out to me more. The adult side is way more accepting of different needs and I love it on this side. I hope to see you in the rooms at some point.
@sunshinegiraffe123
You've done a great job, and opened the discussion thoughtfully. A good discussion opening leaves space for others, and your contribution did that. I am glad to hear from you.
Jeff
@sunshinegiraffe123, I absolutely loved reading through this as I feel the same way about many things you shared! I personally love being social, I just have a hard time being the first one to engage or warm up to people. I truly believe being supportive is one of the best ways to make those with Autism feel welcomed and loved in their community. Sometimes support is all one needs.
@wonderfulRainbow817
I am glad you are here. You are wonderful and multicoloured!
Jeff
@mathetmess, thanks Jeff!
@sunshinegiraffe123
Haven't been diagnosed with autism... Yet... But the sensory issues I have, stimming etc. This was so validating. I am crying. Maybe feel a bit out of place here, but also as close to feeling in place as I ever have before.
Thank you for making this post. Really, massive massive thank you.
And... Awww... Miss you, only a year til I'll join you on the adult side, but still...
@CalmCoral, we can't wait to have you on the adult side!
@wonderfulRainbow817
@mathemess
Needed your kind words ✨ thank you.
@CalmCoral
You belong, CC, and we are glad to recognise you and know that you are one of us. Autists matter. You matter. You are not alone.
Jeff