#autism self advocacy | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

canenotabeltofunction · 7 months

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Some people will not like this.

Autistic people are the authority on how to support autistic people- not parents, not ABA therapists- autistic people

Acting like you know what is best for autistic people as a whole and speaking over autistic adults who try to help parents learn how they can support their kids is not advocating for your child.

Instead of supporting organizations like Autism Speaks try looking at places like the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (https://autisticadvocacy.org)

Autistic people regardless of their level of support needs deserve to be treated with respect and given the resources to communicate their needs themselves as best as possible. Sometimes that requires extra help from caregivers- it does not make you able to speak for the community

When autistic adults say something is more harmful than helpful it is not your place to tell us that we are wrong. :)

#autistic community #autistic advice #autistic adult #autism self advocacy #autism #autism memes #autism problems

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cl0udpup · 1 year

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Feeling seen and encouraged

Yesterday on Twitter, I got a ton of interaction on my post explaining the process I've been going through of researching autism, and trying to determine if it fits for me. The responses were overwhelmingly positive.

I felt validated, accepted, understood, believed. People were SO kind, warm, welcoming, encouraging, non-judgmental. It filled me with a rare kind of joy, like butterflies in my stomach, electric energy in my chest, lots of smiles, tears in my eyes.

I think this is the feeling of love. I can think of feeling this way when totally enamored with someone and sharing affection, as well as how I feel when bonding with a dog. It is the happy tears emoji.

I spent much of the day continuing reading, researching, and came across this survey about autism, completed mostly by autistic people, as well as in smaller numbers, their parents/caregivers, professionals who work with autists, and some "neutral"/non-autism-connection people.

Reading this survey was so intense. I feel like I've spent my entire life feeling alienated, different, on the fringes of society, but in this sample of people, my feelings and experiences aligned with the majority. I cannot put into words how intense this level of validation is. It was so overwhelming I practically felt intoxicated, like reality was pulsing, and a warm hug of energy and understanding surrounded me.

I wanted to document how I feel in this moment, as I can have a hard time remembering things if I don't write it down, and this feels important.

I will make two additional posts, detailing the survey, and the thread. For now, thank you for reading and supporting me. It means the world.

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loud-sound · 7 months

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disabled people: i don't wanna "use the disability card" to miss class today...

also disabled people: semi-conscious on the floor

#disability #disabled #autism #adhd #audhd #why is self-advocacy so hard #this is a callout post #pots #pots syndrome

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snakeautistic · 2 months

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I’m really bad at advocating for myself because I find my ability to communicate is extremely limited under stress. It’s frustrating because I will be struggling overstimulation or overwhelm that could be eased by simply going somewhere different, or asking a clarifying question, but while in this state I do not have the ability to communicate with people around me. Part of this is just the social effort of it all, but it also has to do with the shame I feel for asking for ‘special treatment’ or bothering people.

An example of this was recently when I was retaking my math test and the room was extremely noisy, making it hard to focus. Now, due to my accommodations I’m sure I would have been allowed to ask to be moved somewhere quieter, but at that time I wasn’t able to muster up the social energy communicate that. Another example is when I sometimes unfortunately break down in class, and begin to sob. I would feel a lot better if I went to the bathroom to cool down, but I am not in the state to communicate this and ask to leave , so I wait until an adult takes pity on me and tells me directly I should probably go cool off.

#self advocacy #actually autistic #autistic thoughts #neurodivergent #autism #neurodiversity #autistic experiences #accommodations #autistic things #neurodivergence #asd

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schar-aac · 4 months

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"I am not a puzzle piece."

Image: the blue puzzle piece logo of the hate group Autism Speaks with a big red "X" in front of it, partially covering it.

#aac image #communication symbol #aac symbol #self advocacy #autism #autism speaks #i am not a puzzle piece

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autville · 7 months

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welcome autville, a community of autism acceptance! no need to mask your autism traits around these parts; we’re all autistic here! self-diagnosed and questioning folks are always welcome.

stay tuned and follow along for community bulletins and reports about general goings-on.

see ya around town!

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littleautiebird · 3 months

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How did I realize my autism?

Its funny, in my youth, one thing I was worried so much about was making sure I acted “normal” so that no one would assume I was autistic (this being before I knew anything about autism or truly suspected it of myself.)

It wasn’t until one day as I was pet sitting (at age 23) that made me look into the idea.

I crawled into bed and the texture of the sheets physically made my teeth hurt. I knew it seemed silly, so I texted my best friend and asked her if she ever experiences anything like that, to which she of course said no and jokingly pointed out that its an autistic trait. I responded “wait though, I’ve kind of wondered if I am autistic multiple times in my life before…” She then encouraged me to look into it if I really wondered.

That was the start of it. I went on social media, websites, found books and podcasts, and I started my personal research. I read so many things that week in all my free time, spending many late nights just reading and taking notes. I probably filled about half my journal with these thoughts and observations.

I went through many phases of imposter syndrome, and still do. But I started to put more effort into believing my experience and intuition.

I was able to find a Phycologist near me who was known to be qualified for assessing adults for ASD. I emailed and not too long after was able to get a meeting on the calendar!

In my experience, this whole process has moved pretty quickly, which I am so grateful for because I know many don’t get that same chance.

Just yesterday I had my assessment. I think I feel good about it, but also some anxiety. I’ll have my follow up meeting on the 13th of this month, so I guess we’ll see!

Thanks for reading my experience 🖤

#actually autistic #autism in women #autistic adult #high masking autism #neurodivergent #autism #autistic things #autism awareness #visual storytelling #my story #late diagnosed autism #self advocacy #self care #my autistic story

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chronicsymptomsyndrome · 24 days

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I really need to tell my aunt I’m autistic. I started a co-counseling class with her I really like the other two women in the class. I’m notably the youngest (all my aunts generation) but we are all very open minded liberal activist love the arts being creative plants astrology etc etc. I would put big money on all four of us being some type of neurodivergent.

Anyway every session I filter myself alluding to being autistic and I need to stop because the point is not to filter. It’s time. I don’t know if I would rather do it in a season (defined roles which I love but leaves me wondering what she’s thinking the whole time) or in regular conversation (no defined roles but I get to hear genuine thoughts and questions.) Also do I want to tell just my aunt initially or all three of them at once like ripping off a bandaid? Also do I bring up adhd? Which I am clinically diagnosed with? Should I start from square 1 w the whole backstory of how I got here, or dive right in the deep end and go back from there?

I think the part I’m most anxious about is explaining the concept of self diagnosis. I hate defending my diagnosis. I hate adding the caveat “if a doctor labeled me allistic I would laugh in their face and make fun of their career choice.” I hate having to explain how common it is to be overlook/dismissed because you’re a girl and you made eye contact or smiled or sat still or communicated adequately or masked too much

I’m certain she’ll be outright positive and supportive I’m just worried she might miss the mark in doing so. I’m worried she’ll try to be supportive by saying something like “nooo I think you’re being too hard on yourself give yourself a little credit” or “so cool that it’s hardly noticeable at least” or “don’t worry that doesn’t make you lesser than, you’re just like everyone else!” Or any of that well meaning toxic positivity crap that allistics always rely on

Anyway if any self diagnosed autistics have tips from their own experiences explaining to family/whoever, I’d love to hear. Either way thanks for reading this far if you did. Wish me luck I guess 🥸

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crazycatsiren · 3 months

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A post shared by courn 안 (@candy.courn)

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#actually autistic #autism community #autism advocacy #autism support #autistic women of color #self diagnosed autism #self diagnosis #self diagnoses are valid

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melodymorningdew · 2 months

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Sometimes Self Care Is Hard

Sometimes it looks like resisting the urge to treat yourself to food you know will hurt you.

Sometimes it looks like turning off the screens to help prevent migraines.

Sometimes it's doing your best to sit still and meditate in the morning.

Sometimes self care is hard.

Sometimes you need a sweet treat to make a bad day better.

Sometimes you need to binge comfort shows to help distract you from spiraling.

Sometimes you need to have no agenda for the day.

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salisburyautisticcarerealestate · 1 month

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Salisbury Autism Care: A Safe Haven of Assistance for People on the Autistic Spectrum

The modern world has witnessed a notable increase in the knowledge and comprehension of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Nevertheless, despite these advancements, people on the autism spectrum continue to have difficulties going about their everyday lives. This is where groups like Salisbury Autistic Care come in, offering people with ASD priceless assistance and creating inclusive communities.

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

Prior to discussing Salisbury Autistic Care's position, it is important to comprehend what ASD is. Difficulties with communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors typify the developmental illness known as autism spectrum disorder. Since every person with ASD has a different set of strengths and problems, it is essential to approach care and support from a personalized perspective.

Salisbury Autism Care Offers Holistic Support

Salisbury Autistic Care: A Haven of Support for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum They understand the value of providing people on the autistic spectrum with comprehensive care. Their strategy prioritizes fostering each person's total well-being rather than just attending to their immediate needs. The facility provides an extensive array of services that are customized to satisfy the various requirements of its clientele, ranging from educational programs to therapy sessions and vocational training.

Boosting Self-Sufficiency

Their fundamental tenet is enabling people with ASD to live autonomous, satisfying lives. Through tailored support plans and skill-enhancement programs, they furnish their clients with the necessary resources to adeptly handle diverse facets of everyday existence. At every stage of the process, from acquiring work prospects to learning vital life skills, the facility is committed to promoting independence.

Building Inclusive Communities

Apart from offering immediate assistance to people with ASD, Salisbury Autistic Care is essential to fostering inclusive societies. Salisbury Autistic Care: Creating Inclusive Communities for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum encourages awareness and acceptance of autism; they collaborate closely with businesses, community organizations, and educational institutions. Through increasing awareness and offering training, they contribute to creating circumstances where people with ASD can flourish without encountering prejudice or stigma.

Teaching the Community

Fostering empathy and understanding for people with ASD requires education. Salisbury Autistic Care regularly participates in community outreach initiatives, educating the public about autism spectrum disease through workshops and seminars. They help to create a more inclusive society where people with ASD are recognized for their unique qualities by dispelling myths and giving correct information.

Teaching the Community

Fostering empathy and understanding for people with ASD requires education. They regularly participate in community outreach initiatives, educating the public about autism spectrum disease through workshops and seminars. By dispelling myths and giving correct information, they help create a more inclusive society where people with ASD are recognized for their unique qualities.

In summary

For those who are autistic and their families, Salisbury Autistic Care is more than just a service provider—it's a ray of hope and support. By using a holistic approach, they create inclusive communities where everyone is appreciated and embraced, enabling people with ASD to realize their full potential. Salisbury Autistic Care is improving the lives of thousands of autistic people and their families by carrying out their purpose of advocacy, education, and support.

#autism spectrum #salisbury autistic care #education #and support.#purpose advocacy #Teaching the Community #Inclusive Communities #Self-Sufficiency #Holistic #Autistic Spectrum #Haven of Assistance for People

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wellspokenrambler · 1 year

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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT!!

I will be streaming next week to raise money for the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network! The stream is at 4:30PM BST on the 27th April, and I'll be aiming to get EVERY ACHIEVEMENT in Outer Wilds in ONE STREAM! https://tiltify.com/@wellspokenrambler/outer-wilds-asan The donation page is live now if you want to start supporting ASAN early, but I've got some fun rewards lined up for the day of! Perks include:

inverted controls!

party hats!

"marshmallow time"!

And many more!

ASAN do really important work in elevating the voices of autistic people in every space they can, and I'm proud to support them as an autistic person myself. So come on down and help them out - by actively making my goal harder!

See you then ;;)

(it is also my birthday! what better way to celebrate than to raise money for a good cause and be debatably good at video games)

#wellspokenrambler #outer wilds #autistic self advocacy network #autistic #autism #charity stream #twitch

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crimeronan · 10 months

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ok so I saw ur last poll and I was like well hey I love to touch every fabric in the store and I'm not autistic but then I remembered a bunch of my friends both autistic and not have been telling me they think I'm autistic lately and one of my fall backs has been how I don't have common issues like hypersensitivity so obvs I can't be autistic but I literally didn't know hyposensitivity was a thing until the anxiety google spiral I was just on and long story short your oc poll may be dragging my ass to a psychologist bc I'm relating a little too hard to these adult autism diagnosis articles 👍🏻

SHRIEK. this ask actually taught me something too because i'd never heard the word hyposensitivity before but this is Also me.

(AND part of why i too thought i wasn't autistic for ages. i was like "i'm just a really enthusiastic ally bc of my very autistic brother but i'm So Allistic For Real" and vi's mom - who is also autistic - just looked at me and bluntly said "....no. you aren't")

i seek out soft/nice textures and extra weight and very loud hard rock/metal music and general weird touch to feel connected to the world. and i'm very annoying personality-wise in ways that other ppl have clocked from a million miles away for ages

anyway autism can indeed involve a lot of unusual sensory experiences & delight in certain textures! you also don't need a diagnosis to ID as autistic per the autistic community, you can use whatever language and whatever resources you want, it's all good. but if you Want to pursue a diagnosis for personal edification or for structural support that is extremely valid 💕

#replies #the autistic self-advocacy network (ASAN) is a killer place to find autism-related articles and resources!#they are staunchly pro-self-DX and run entirely by autistic people #but i love this. nothing like projecting on an OC or a fandom character to get other ppl to go 'hm. i may have just realized something'#this has happened. so many times. with so many things. this might be the first autism-related one though #original fiction #devin

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gynecologistmsfrizzle · 1 year

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“what to tell a doctor to get an autism diagnosis” “here’s what i learned from realizing i was autistic at 40″ “i would never want a professional diagnosis” “person first language is so regressive” “autism symptoms are only a problem because of ableism” “we dont need treatment” “no autistic person wants a cure” “four doctors told me i couldn’t be autistic so i found a fifth” “autism is an invisible disability” “dont disclose your neurodivergency to employers” “i/dd and autism have nothing to do with each other” “nt parents/advocates have no place in autism communities” “of course im autistic have you heard me talk about horror movies” babe i have nothing in common with any of you

#completely insane that i will go on autism twitter and somehow i am ''low functioning'' compared to the rest of the people on there.#what are you TALKING about. dont disclose your ''neurodivergency'' to your doctors?? autism is an invisible disability?#we live on different planets. like i think we live on different planets.#sorry but i am twenty two years old and my mother has a fippa exemption to access all my medical info bc if she did not #i would not be able to access healthcare.#the only reason i can live away from home is because i have a cell phone and internet and can keep in touch w family.#my legal government address is my father's house where i have not lived for seven years #because if an important document gets sent to my apartment i will lose it or forget about it and i know this because it's happened.#like ... yeah ! autism IS a spectrum ! and you are not doing such a good job recognizing and supporting people who are #in very different places on that spectrum than you !#it is. i mean it's kind of a form of hermeneutical injustice to argue that there is no meaningful difference between various groups #of autistic people #like yeah functioning labels suck ASS. also you DO need to be able to identify that there ARE people who need more support #because if you can't name that then you are going to forget that they exist #and i see that all the time. it's aspie supremacy by another name #by erasing people who did not have the privilege of self-diagnosing #who do not have the privilege not to disclose #who do not have the privilege of independent self-advocacy #you are going to end up achieving the same thing that actively dismissing those people achieves #like. i dunno. like i said it's completely bonkers in yonkers that EYE and the UNIVERSITY DEGREE EYE WILL BE GETTING IN TWO MONTHS #and my LEASE and my RESPECTABLE RESUME and my INCOMING SOCIAL WORK LICENSE #feel alienated by the default presumptions the ''autistic community'' seems to operate from about how autistic people function #like jfc if i feel erased and unwelcome then how are you EVER going to make your community accessible and helpful #to people who need miles more support than i do??#rhi talks #autie tag

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nld-as-insights · 7 months

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Disability Disclosure: Not Needing to Tell People About a Disability Should NOT be the Gold Standard.

I, Julia, for reasons not in the scope of this blog post, regret not sharing about Non-Verbal Learning Disorder (NLD or NVLD) with internship supervisors before an internship started. However, I have to remember to not blame myself for that decision.

The school's disability coordinator said that she didn't think I needed to tell anybody that I have NLD because I did well in school and they didn't have to show me around the halls.

This statement sent me the message that I shouldn't tell anyone about NLD because it is something to hide. This statement also sent the message that it would have been a weakness, not a communication strength, to ask for help. It is likely a cultural gold standard (in the US) to not need to tell someone about one's disability and not need to ask for accommodations. This might have to do with overvaluing independence.

This standard teaches people to hide their differences and accessibility needs to appease people with prejudices.

What if this disability coordinator had advocated more for her students and taught the students ways to advocate for themselves?

Thanks,

Julia

#non-verbal learning disorder #non-verbal learning disability #internalized ableism #ableism #neurodivergence #neurodiversity #autism #learning disability #learning disorder #invisible disability #self advocacy

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autville · 7 months

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curious question: what does autville look like?

a curious question indeed!

it's a very foggy morning here in autville. the many trees are still holding onto their lush summer greenery, but they'll soon turn to the glorious golden colors of autumn!

I am sitting on the window perch inside one of the town's cozy stone cottages, which I call my home. my cottage is the perfect distance between the bustling town hall in the center square and the quiet orchards at the town's edge. the cottages in this neighborhood are close together to minimize those pesky lonely feelings...while still allowing for that sweet, sweet sense of ample personal space.

some autville residents live together in shared cottages, and some live more solitary lives, often in the company of (sometimes several!) animal companions. as I type this, my own cat is currently napping right in the middle of my bed. feline companions are plentiful in autville, perhaps because many of us believe that cats are pretty heckin autistic themselves...but that is a topic for a separate news bulletin.

however we choose to spend our days as individuals, we as town residents of autville frequently gather for community events like our weekly same foods feasts at the pavilion (I usually bring macaroni and cheese!) and special interest roundtables at the town hall, during which we take turns sharing wondrous fun facts about whatever we're interested in.

autville does not exist in isolation, of course. there are plenty of accessible modes of transit into the nearby hustle and bustle of all those more neurotypical realms, if that's your thing!

...it's not really my thing, though. I prefer to spend my free time researching disability studies at the endless library, perusing rotating exhibitions at the museum of special interests, or lounging about and stimming freely in the meadows...weather permitting, of course.

anyway, I thank you for this question, dear reader! cartography isn't one of my special interests, but I'm sure I can find a friend in town to create an official map of autville...

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