The Autistic community often describes autism in a neutral or positive light. This may help you gain a more holistic sense of autism, as opposed to seeing only the negatives.
Deeply passionate interests. These can lead to tremendous expertise, and possibly a very successful career or fun hobby. [4] X Research source Helpfulness. Autistic people, in general, have a high sense of social responsibility, or the desire to solve problems and help others. [5] X Research source Valerie L. Gaus, PhD. Living Well on the Spectrum. Precision. It is often noted that autistic people focus on the small parts, rather than the big picture. This can lead to remarkable detail-oriented work, where a neurotypical person might be unable to focus so clearly on the individual aspects of something. Visual intelligence. Autistic people have tested higher on visual and nonverbal intelligence tests. [6] X Research source [7] X Research source Sincerity. Autistic people tend to mean what they say, and act as a “voice of reason” without becoming mired in social complexities. [8] X Research source Valerie L. Gaus, PhD. Living Well on the Spectrum. Your honesty and genuine spirit can feel refreshing to others. Creativity and a unique perspective. Autistic people can learn in unusual ways. [9] X Trustworthy Source Austistic Self Advocacy Network Nonprofit organization run by and for individuals on the autism spectrum that empowers autistic people through education and public advocacy Go to source This provides insights that neurotypicals may never realize, and can become a great asset in collaboration. [10] X Research source
Historically, Einstein,[11] X Research source Thomas Jefferson, Emily Dickinson,[12] X Research source Mozart,[13] X Research source and more people were thought to be autistic. [14] X Research source Famous autistic people today include Tim Burton,[15] X Research source Susan Boyle,[16] X Research source Adam Young (from Owl City), Temple Grandin and more. [17] X Research source
Most non-autistic people would be jealous of the way you can recall and discuss information.
For example, most nearsighted people are not disabled: they are fully accommodated within society (glasses, contacts), and have the same opportunities that non-nearsighted people have. Their body can’t do the same things, but technology makes up for that, so it is not an issue.
Take some time to learn about your own limitations, and talk about those with the people in your life. That way, they won’t expect you to do things you aren’t able to do. [19] X Expert Source George Sachs, PsyDLicensed Psychologist Expert Interview. 9 October 2020.
Options include sensory integration therapy, talk therapy, occupational therapy, special diets, behavior therapy, and seeing a psychologist for emotional issues. Always check with a doctor before altering your diet or attempting an alternative treatment. Some of these are scams. Be careful about behavior therapies. Some therapies are based on compliance and may hurt more than helping. [20] X Research source If your therapist’s goal is to make you more normal (rather than more comfortable or more competent), or if you feel upset and anxious about seeing them, then find a better therapist.
Disability doesn’t just mean that there are some things you can’t do. It can also mean that some things are painful or extremely draining for you. Give yourself permission to quit or find an alternative way.
Spend time on your hobbies and things that you’re good at. Enjoy the feeling of competence and expertise. Make a list of your positive traits. Consider both personality traits and skills. Place the list somewhere where it’ll be easy to see when you’re feeling sad about yourself. Help other people. Prepare food for the hungry, raise awareness for important causes, or write about your special interest on wikiHow. Effecting a positive change in the world will distract you, help others, and make you feel happier about yourself.
Pushing yourself to meet non-autistic standards will only take a toll on your health. It is okay to ask for academic accommodations, take extra breaks, or quit doing things that are too stressful to achieve. Pay extra attention to general health advice: sleep for at least 8 hours, eat fruits and vegetables, limit junk food, minimize stress, and exercise regularly (taking walks counts). Self-care is extra important for you, to mitigate stress and help reduce meltdowns and shutdowns. If you have trouble with self-care, it’s okay to ask for help. Assisted living, a group home, or living with family might be better for you. Talk with a doctor, social worker, or therapist if you’re struggling. There’s no shame in meeting your needs, and it’ll free up time for things you love.
Try to stop masking your autistic traits when you can. [21] X Research source Masking is linked to exhaustion and mental health risks. [22] X Research source [23] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source [24] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Try to be yourself more often.
If you think you may have anxiety and/or depression, try to schedule a doctor’s appointment. The doctor can give you a screening and perhaps some helpful medicine. You are not being selfish or burdensome by sharing negative feelings. People can probably tell if you are feeling awful; they just may not know how to help. If you tell them, this is helpful to them, because then they can know what to do and worry less.
If you usually feel bad about yourself after spending time with someone, that’s an important pattern to be aware of. Figure out why you feel that way, and whether the relationship is worth maintaining.
Autistic people can offer advice and tips to those in need (and often do so, especially online) The general positivity of the autistic community can help you feel better when you are feeling sad or have low self-esteem.
Use the block button on social media if an account is negatively impacting your mood or mental health. It is okay to cut toxic people out of your life, even if they’re family. You don’t need their negativity, and you’re much better off without them. You are not required to argue that your existence is worthwhile, and it’s okay to decide not to waste your time and energy on them. If you’re stuck with these people, you can either educate or avoid them. Educating them can be done by telling them about autism and making an appeal to their desire to be a good person. If you try this and fail, or if you know that they won’t respond to reason, it’s better to avoid spending time with them and avoid autism-related conversations. You don’t deserve to listen to toxic ideas about your existence.
Many autism self-advocacy groups have a large online presence. You do not need to physically go somewhere to get involved. If you can’t find in-person autism organizations that are any good, try general disability groups. It can be tremendously relieving to spend time with a group where being disabled is viewed as the “norm”.
Look for autistic people in autism acceptance advocacy groups, special education (if you go there), or disability/autism clubs.
