#autistic advocacy

[noballoonsinspace]

@staff @support much appreciation for all you do but listen

do yall not understand that a vast majority of your user base is either autistic af or otherwise hella neurotic for any number of reasons, and we have a profoundly hard time (neurologically emotionally or otherwise) processing change that is frivolous, unsolicited, and ineffectual.

I don't mean "we don't like it" or "we reserve the right to whine about it" I legitimately mean that significant changes in interface make it extremely difficult to take in and process any or all of the visual information and this renders the website effectively unusable.

Annoyed and overstimulated in unfamiliar surroundings is the exact opposite of the experience I'm looking for on this website.

Please be inclusive of all disabilities all neurotypes by changing it back or giving us the option to do so. Thanks so so much

#actually autistic #new dashboard #I thought I would come back from hiatus and start fresh with a new blog but fucking ew gross disgusting nevermind #asd problems #neurodiversity #accessibility #inclusivity #disability accessibility #disabled community #neurological disability #disability advocacy #autistic advocacy #asd stuff #autistic things #autistic community #old dashboard #tumblr changes #tumblr staff

[chronicsymptomsyndrome]

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 🥸

#rants & reflections #autistic experiences #autism diagnosis #self diagnosed autistic #pro self diagnosis #educated self diagnosis #self diagnosis is valid #self diagnosis #self diagnosed autism #late diagnosed autistic #healthcare reform #autistic masking #masking autism #cocounseling #co counseling #autistic trauma #therapy #autistic advocacy #adhd autistic #audhd problems #neurodiversity

[autisticincontinence]

It's not uncommon for individuals on the autism spectrum to have sensory and processing differences that can make toileting difficult, leading to accidents and possible negative experiences. This can result in trauma associated with using the toilet or anxiety about accidents, particularly in situations where access to a bathroom may be limited, such as school or other public places.

It's also not uncommon for individuals who have experienced frequent soiling accidents in childhood to have a desire for sensory comfort, which can include the use of diapers or pull-ups. Sensory comfort can be important for individuals on the autism spectrum who may have sensory processing differences that can affect their ability to tolerate certain sensations.

If you feel that using diapers or pull-ups is providing you with the sensory comfort that you need, it may be a good option for you. However, it's important to ensure that you are practicing good hygiene to prevent skin irritation or infection. This includes changing your pull-up frequently, using wipes or mild soap and water, and using a barrier cream or powder can all help maintain good hygiene.

It's also important to remember that wearing diapers or pull-ups is a personal choice, and there is no shame in seeking sensory comfort in this way.

#bing search #incontinence autism #incontinence #incontin autism #normalizeincontinence #autistic diapered and proud #incontinent #autistic advocacy #autisticadvocacy #autisticdiaperedandproud #autism #openai #chatgpt

[frillability]

Ask An Autistic #5 - What is ABA?

Listen to Actually Autistic people during Autism Acceptance Month and everyday when it comes to the Autistic experience. Here's a video by Amythest Schaber, an activist and educator whose videos helped me before and after my diagnosis seven years ago. Due to being diagnosed late in life, I was mainstreamed, and thankfully, I never experienced ABA. The following information is what I have learned from Autistic individuals who have.

ABA is obviously a controversial topic, but without a doubt, many Autistic survivors of ABA agree that ABA is without a doubt harmful, even when the intent isn't harm.

There are better options for therapy for Autistic children and adults that that do not lead to post traumatic stress, but due to racism and classism, not everyone can afford to make those choices. Sometimes ABA is a family's only choice.

You are not a bad parent if you've chosen ABA because that's what's been suggested to you or what's been forced on you. Certain harmful organisations have a strong hold on the industry, and there aren't enough loud voices breaking through the noise yet.

I urge anyone interested to watch more of Amythest's videos. They aren't active at this time to my best knowledge, but they have a wonderful amount of relevant information about Autism as an Autistic individual.

#actually autistic #autism acceptance month #autism #autistic #autism awareness #autistic community #autistic adult #autistic advocacy #disability #frillability #amythest schaber #ask an autistic #video post #text post #Youtube #aba tw #aba therapy

[titan-god-helios]

30 days of autism acceptance: day 1

[1 April: The typical introduction question! Tell us something about yourself. If you can't think of anything, try these: What do you enjoy to do in your free time? What music or series/show do you like? Are you happy with your current living situation/the people you live with? What's one of your favourite foods?]

hi all !! my name's ash, i go by all pronouns (prefer they/them), i'm pansexual, nonbinary and audhd (self dx). in my free time, i usually read or play videogames, and sometimes i'll do some art for myself although i treat it more as fun work otherwise nothing ever gets finished that i start on! at the moment, i'm reading the series of unfortunate events by lemony snicket (on book ten - the slippery slope - and about 2/3 through), i absolutely adore mitski, ichika nito (guitar soloist, math rock style), any form of rock although i prefer heavier rock//(death) metal, jazz, electroswing, LOTS of musicals (where are my hamilfans ????) indie music aaand i like a lot of punk-rock type rap too, from artists like grandson, call me karizma and so on (does that classify as rap ?? im really bad at naming genres so there's another thing <3). i'll link my main playlist here for you to listen if you're interested !! in terms of shows, i never tend to finish anything fully because i easily get bored of shows halfway through unless i really enjoy some aspect of them BUT that being said, i'm working my way through rise of the teenage mutant ninja turtles currently (tmnt has always been a comfort franchise for me), and some previous shows i adored are arcane, the umbrella academy, aggretsuko, and bits and bobs of david attenborough's wildlife documentaries//docuseries on netflix. the people i live with are okay for the most part - my mum has taken a huge toll on my mental health and so has my dad, although honestly speaking i prefer him to her simply because he acknowledges that he's done that and respects me as a person (most of the time). my sister is great although i feel bad for being annoyed by her a lot of the time because, due to the day in and day out stress my mum gives, im either burnt out, in sensory overload, having a shutdown (i rarely have meltdowns most likely due to trauma reasons and also how i just naturally process emotion) but other than the bad stuff, i have it good in terms of living conditions. bonus points for my wonderful boyfriend @paracosmicboy who makes it so much better on the daily <333 i love cooking and baking and anything in the kitchen !! its my happy place and sososo good for grounding or distraction when im in a bad place, plus i get yummy food and the satisfaction of a completely clean living space when i'm all done !! really makes me feel good and in control (something i don't have a lot of in my day to day life and it stresses me out beyond compare). speaking of food, i don't really have any favourites in particular since i adore a lot of food from many different cuisines and people (i'm sensory seeking in that respect and was only a picky eater when i was really little). THAT BEING SAID, give me some sushi and udon noodle soup, or any type of comforting asian food, and im at home instantly (i'm half asian and despite my complicated relationship with my mum, her cooking is supreme above all others (apart from certain traditional greek dishes that my dad cooks) and it always makes me feel a little happier than i was before i ate it, and it reminds me of all the good moments with my mum instead of the bad - its magical). aaand yeah !! this is already really long so i'm gonna stop typing now <3 have a wonderful day my lovelies !!

#30daysofautismacceptance #2023 #being autistic #actually autistic #autism #asd #actually asd #long post #long reads #infodump #neurodivergent writer #neurospicy #its the neurodivergency #neurodivergent #neurodivergencies #neurodiversity #neurodiverse stuff #autism acceptence month #autism awareness #autistic advocacy #autistic experiences #self diagnosis #self diagnosed autism #self dx #rottmnt #the umbrella academy #tua #tmnt #asian #greek

[brightlotusmoon]

Amy Schumer Says Husband Chris Fischer's Autism Diagnosis Was Like Him 'Getting a Superpower' | PEOPLE.com

"If someone's telling a long, boring story, he will straight up just walk away. He'll just wander away, and I'm just still stuck there."

-

LOL, I did that as a child. I would walk right past people and park myself at the bookcase and read whatever books looked interesting.

#actually autistic #autistic person #autistic adult #autistic advocacy #autism is not my handbag

[lightning-system]

As a medium/lower support needs autistic who works with young higher support needs autistic:

We all matter. We all have the same diagnosis. We all deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

But we are not the same.

I can mask and might be seen as 'odd' or 'weird' in public. The students I work with are seen as 'dangerous' and 'practically little kids'.

I can go to university and work with accommodations. The students I work with likely will never live independently and a few might find jobs that support them but still pay them less than an abled worker.

I have full control of my finances. The students I work with aren't allowed to make independent financial decisions, even if capable.

If I say 'no,' I'm making a choice. The students I work with can't say 'no' without being labeled as defiant and difficult.

I can feed myself, bathe myself, and take care of myself with extreme challenges. The students I work with are unable to take care of themselves without high levels of support/one on one support.

I had an IEP in high school but was mainstreamed in classes. The students I work with take separate classes and some rarely get to interact with their abled peers.

Our experiences are fundamentally different. Higher support needs autistics will experience a specific type of ableism I never will, and can never fully understand.

Lower support needs autistics need to stop saying we understand what higher support needs autistics are going through and then present autism as only being disabling because of society/lack of acceptance because that is dangerous. We need to stop saying every autistic person is capable of everything if given the right support because that leaves out huge parts of our community who will never be able to do certain things, regardless of support.

We are worthy of existence regardless of our abilities.

Autism is a spectrum. It is not the same for every autistic person. Autism acceptance and advocacy has to come with accepting, acknowledging, and listening to our higher support needs peers.

#disabled #disability #actually autistic #autism #low support needs #medium support needs #high support needs #autistic pride #advocacy #acceptance #lightning rambles #important

[alex2xander]

Be nice and don't mock tumblr users that communicate differently.

Examples:

1.) Typing quirks

2.) No punctuation

3.) Random Capitalisation

4.) Long run on sentences

5.) Frequently misspelled words

6.) Missing spaces between words

7.) Repeating words and sentences

8.) Posts audios and videos instead of typing

9.) Express themselves through custom emojis

10.) Use an AAC (Augmentative and alternative communication) device

Some users have intellectual disabilities, use speech to text, struggle with grammar, have hand tremmers, have high support needs, etc.

Regardless of how they communicate and their reason why, they still deserve respect. They are trying their best.

#intellectual disability #disability #communication styles #disabled community #communication #aac user #aac device #autism awareness #disability awareness #typing quirk #disability advocacy #poor grammar #grammar nerd #actually neurodivergent #actually neurodiverse #its the neurodivergency #neurodivergent #neurodiversity #autistic #autism #disability community #neurodivergent community #judgment free zone #no judgement #adhd #adhd brain

[my-autism-adhd-blog]

Alright people…it’s A N G R Y time! 😡

A boy was kicked out of a New Jersey movie theater after using the bathroom with his mom. This instantly made me angry because some people with high support needs do need help using the bathroom sometimes.

According to this report:

The incident began when Gallinaro’s son needed to use the bathroom and she took him into the women’s restroom. There is no family restroom at the Cinemark in Hazlet, according to the lawsuit.

“My son is not equipped to go into a men’s bathroom in a public setting alone,” Gallinaro told NJ Advance Media last week. “I took him to the women’s bathroom.”

There were other women in the restroom, some of them mothers, she said.

“Right away, they see he’s with me. They pick up why he’s in the bathroom with me,” she said, noting that she noticed one woman “looking at me smiling.”

The 59-year-old manager of the movie theater wasn’t as understanding, the suit alleges.

The manager angrily approached and “shouted blatantly discriminatory remarks” toward the mother and the 15-year-old, the lawsuit alleges.

“A grown man should not be in the women’s restroom,” the manager said in the crowded lobby, according to the suit. “This is not a transgender bathroom.”

Even though there were no other complaints, the manager allegedly ordered the Gallinaros off the property and directed an assistant manager to call the police, the suit states.

This is complete discrimination. Please reblog this to help spread the word. This can’t keep happening.

#autism #actually autistic #high support needs #this made me so angry #please reblog and spread the word #this is discrimination #autism advocacy

[fallenstarcat]

sometimes i feel like people forget autism is a disability. and that’s not a bad thing! i’m all for disability acceptance, im proud of my disabilities. but i feel like we forget autism can hurt.

it hurts that i have to put more time and energy into socializing than others.

it hurts when i need to move so bad, usually cause im overwhelmed by either my surroundings or emotions, that i thrash and hurt myself.

it hurts that i cant be in places that are too loud or too bright, which on bad days can be as simple as a small, quiet noise or dim lights.

it hurts that i struggle to tell when im hungry, thirsty, tired, etc. so i can’t properly take care of myself. it doesn’t help my insomnia and i get very nauseas and get UTIs.

i 100% believe in autism acceptance. i don’t want a cure. but i also want us the acknowledge that it can hurt. it doesn’t mean my entire life will hurt, but some parts will. and i want a community where we can see both sides, see the hurt, and celebrate it anyway.

#autism #autistic #actually autistic #actually autism #autism acceptance #autism acceptence month #autistic things #autistic experiences #autistic community #autistic spectrum #autism spectrum disorder #autism spectrum #disabled #disability #disability pride #disabled pride #disabilties #autistic life #autism life #autism advocacy #neurodivergent #actually neurodiverse #neurodiversity #neurodevelopmental #developmental disabilities #developmental disability

[vizthedatum]

An apparently unpopular opinion: disabled people can have and do their hobbies. They deserve to have fun. They deserve to live their lives.

Their inability to do some things (like work, for example) does not mean they should be judged for… idk hanging out with their friends or to going outside. After all, having interests outside of work is often essential to our mental and physical health OUTSIDE of our disability.

And also *you might want to sit down for this* disabled people know what’s disabling for them (unless they people-please or push through due to necessity or survival of some sort). Disabilities don’t have to be visible or persistent to be disabling.

So yeah - my declaration: if an activity you want to do feels good and you’re able to do it, then do it. REGARDLESS OF YOUR DISABILITY WITH OTHER THINGS.

#disability #disability advocacy #disabilities #invisible disability #healing #trauma #neurodivergence #autistic #self love #prose #a rant #a vent #sigh #a lot of ppl don’t get this #thoughts

[sojourner-between-worlds]

Even if you, personally, don't hate Discord's new UI, I am begging ya'll to still send them the following feedback:

"The changes made to Dark Mode are an accessibility issue due to the lack of a low contrast option for those who need it."

The previous dark gray was never ideal, tbh, but it was still worlds better than what we have now. As someone who can feasibly get by with the new dark mode but vastly prefers low contrast, and as someone who knows people who do need low contrast -- please tell them about this problem.

#discord #its all terrible but most of it i can get over #this i will not #its a problem and they NEED TO KNOW its a problem #disability #autism #autistic #random ramblings #PLEASE mind me #disability visibility #disability advocacy #idk what all to tag this with but hopefully thatll at least get it seen a little bit

[chronicsymptomsyndrome]

“alt text for more info” “turn on cations for more info” no actually this is not where more info goes. These have a very distinct purpose. There are plenty of other places for more info. If you’re going to make your post inaccessible, the least you could do is not use accessibility tools at your own leisure for whatever purpose you see fit.

#disability accessibility #accessibility #vision impaired #hearing impaired #hard of hearing #physical disability #sensory disability #disability accommodations #disability representation #disability advocacy #equitability #neurodiversity #adhd autistic #disabled things #alt text #captioning #subtitles #disability resources #accessibility tools

[autisticincontinence]

A common experience I've found for people is struggling to afford incontinence products!

If you don't have Medicaid/insurance covering your supplies, help is still out there!

Check out Aeroflow Direct! They also accept Finance with Monthly Payments. *Located in the United States

Also sign and share the petition!

#incontinence #incontinence autism #autism #incontinent #autistic advocacy #endthediaperstigma #normalizeincontinence #autisticdiaperedandproud #not sponsored #Aeroflow Health

[domwho11]

Please consider donating so that Sara can keep doing her brilliant and important work x

#actually autistic #autism #neurodiversity #neurodivergence #neurodivergent #neurodiverse #disability #disability rights #autie #all autistic #autist #autistic #autistic advocacy #autistic acceptance #agony autie #stimmy #stim positivity

[todayontumblr]

Tuesday April 11.

Autism Acceptance Month.

Today is Tuesday, April 11, which means we are eleven days into the 30 blessed days of #autism acceptance month, 2023 (previously known as #autism awareness month). April is the month and April 2nd is the day—World Autism Day, to be precise—and these first weeks of spring are a time for uplifting autistic voices of all identities, advocating for acceptance, progress, and sharing in the community's joy. It began back in 1972, as National Autistic Children’s Week, and was founded by The Autism Society to raise awareness and campaign for change in communities, schools, medical facilities, and businesses. And this same vital, wonderful work continues today, and not just for the month of April, of course—but every day of every year. The lived reality is that every day of every month is Autism Acceptance Month, and it is on all of us to do better.

Progress has been made, but there is still so much to be done in the struggle for equality and justice for all those living under the broad church of autism. And if these words sound hollow, then simply read the moving story of Debra Vines, of The Answer Inc., and of her autistic son Jason. She articulates everyday struggles that families can face, and the many joys they experience, too. Her message is simple, but powerful: don't give up on milestones.  

Want to know more, get involved, or donate? Here is just some of an impressive selection of charities sourced by the fine people at the Applied Behavior Analysis Programs Guide, where you can find the complete list of 20 charities and organizations:

The Asperger/Autism Network

The Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network

Autism Research Institute

The Autistic Self Advocacy Network

The Autism National Committee

Happy Tuesday, folks, and here's to better.

#today on tumblr #autism acceptance #autism acceptance month #autism awareness month #autism #aspergers #advocacy #neurodivergent #actually autistic #autistic community #autistic life #neurodiversity