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Creating Safe Spaces book review
“Creating Safe Spaces for Autistic People” by Scott Neilson and Laura Hellfeld provides a comprehensive guide for establishing inclusive environments. The authors, along with other autistic advocates, address topics such as language use, participant support, and accessibility. Ranging from sensory tools to public transport guidance, this well-structured resource is valuable for professionals supporting autistic individuals.
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A short guide to gender for Autistic children and young people
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Autistic Burnout: What is it, and why does it happen?
Autistic burnout is a heightened state of stress, affecting energy, emotions, and sensory management. It’s often triggered by social and work-related factors, leading to emotional dysregulation, sensory overload, and brain fog. This can result in a sense of isolation, frustration, and an overwhelming feeling of responsibilities without the energy to address them.
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LGBTQIA+ and Autistic: Community and belonging
This article, originally from Autistic Revolution magazine, addresses the intersection of LGBTQIA+ and Autistic identities. The author explains their personal connection to both spectrums and discusses the challenges faced, including discrimination in LGBTQIA+ and Autistic spaces. They emphasize the importance of creating inclusive spaces and embracing diverse identities.
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Shedding my labels
The author reflects on their journey to understanding their neurodivergent identity and the impact of labels and diagnoses on their sense of self. They express frustration with how others perceive and react to their labels and seek connection beyond their specific identities. They acknowledge the importance of labels in some contexts but strive to move…
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The ARC is at it again
CW: suicide, ableism, Simon Baron-Cohen Another study suggested by Cambridge’s Autism Research Centre (ARC) has been paused. The new study by Professor Simon Baron-Cohen planned to read and pick apart the diaries of CSL*, a young Autistic girl who killed herself. The intention was that researchers could use her diaries to improve their understanding of…
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Unusual Medicines by David Gray-Hammond: book review
When I first heard that David Gray-Hammond was releasing a new book: Unusual medicine: Essays on Autistic identity and drug addiction, I knew it was going to be an important and affirming read. David’s previous writing is powerful and meaningful to me and many other Autistic people who have experienced addiction and substance use. …
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Tired but not broken
I asked the community: If you could let people know one thing about being Autistic what would it be? This blog is based off your amazing answers. Anyone of any identity, culture or heritage can be Autistic so we obviously aren’t all the same! However, we do seem to experience similar things across cultures, namely…
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OCD Subtypes
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health difference which can affect any child or adult. It usually starts in early adulthood but can happen during puberty (as it did for me). People with OCD usually experience frequent obsessive thoughts, which are unpleasant and cause feelings of anxiety, disgust or shame. These thoughts can include…
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The chaotic mind
I am Autistic, Attention Hyperactive (see Ditching the Disorder and Deficit) and OCD, that means there is a lot of chaos within me. As an Autistic person I love routine, I thrive when I go to the same places, eat the same food and wear the same clothes. It erases so much anxiety around the unknown.…