What I Thought Autism Was Vs. What I Know Now


If you were to have told me 5-10 years ago I would be advocating for autism, I would've thought you were nuts!  If you told me I had autism, I wouldn't have believed you.  I've come a long way since discovering my autism diagnosis. 
Having autism isn't considered a bad thing.  Sometimes people look at it like "this person is ill, we need to help them."  It's not like that at all.  You don't have to have help 100% on the time.  Support and autism is needs based and can fluctuate depending on the needs of the person.  There is no shame in needing or asking for help.  Neurotypicals ask for help.  If you're autistic and feel embarrassed for asking for help, don't be ashamed. It doesn't mean you're a bad person. 
Think of asking for help like swimming.  Some people are natural at swimming and don't need much help.  Some people need help with learning to swim like floating pads or a life jacket.  Some people might need more one-on-one help than just a floatie and life jacket.  AND THAT'S OKAY!!!!!!! 

Above is an image explaining the types of support people with autism need.

Now, back to my thoughts on autism.

Before, I only knew two boys that had autism.  I had never met any girl with autism until 2023.  After learning about my autism in 2022 and meeting girls with autism, it was like "oh, wait! Girls CAN have autism!!"  Now, some of my best friends are girls with autism and I wouldn't have it any other way.
As far as eye contact goes, you don't HAVE to be good at it to be autistic.  I know that for a fact after talking to some doctors, friends, and reading more about it.

Remember, both autism and neurodiversity are spectrums.  They're all invisible.  There's no look!  There's no certain gender that has to have it!

That being said, Happy Wednesday!! Have a great hump day! :D

 

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