Changes and ASD
I am one step closer to my own independence, which is what the Adult programs at CA helped me to do. However, changing from something familiar to something new and different is a challenge.
A Tremendous Journey
How I Chose to be in the CA Residential Program. I recall in the first blog I wrote, it ended up being about my residential experience and the steps my family and I took to get me there.
It’s Not Lazy: What is Demand Avoidance and Executive Functioning?
Demand avoidance or what I prefer: Persistent Drive for Autonomy is an avoidance of tasks for daily living and even avoidance of preferred tasks when asked to do so by another.
Autism Stigmas and Me
A stigma is, by definition, “a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality or person.” As research for this blog, I asked for feedback from the autism community, both on social media and from those I know. I also spoke with people who may not be on the spectrum. I was able to compile a massive list of stigmas surrounding autism and other mental health factors. In compiling these lists, we also discussed how we may be able to change that view and help people better understand one another. .
My Brother, My Friend
“Family is not about blood. It is about who is willing to hold your hand when you need it most.” While reading this quote from Arjun Sathwara, I thought about…
my story with autism
I have the habit of writing a diary. When I review my diaries at the end of a year, I am so surprised by how many times I expressed my dedication and passion for autism to myself in the diary. The reason for this passion is a mystery to me to some extent, but I do know that my story with autism began in college.
This Explains Everything
In the past two years, in true autistic style, I have researched, taken classes, read, listened to, and gathered every bit of information I possibly could. I still do this. I am always sure I don’t know enough. (Yup, that’s my neurodiversity too.) And as I began helping more adults discover how their brains work, I discovered there is a need for people, who don’t know why they are the way they are, to feel understood, seen, appreciated, and helped. The best way I knew to support the most people was to share some of my story.
5 money saving tips for adults with autism
Just like neurotypical folks, adults with autism can struggle financially to meet their needs and goals. This is especially true as autistics are often under and unemployed. The following is a blog shared with CA by a regular contributor. She describes herself as an adult female with high functioning autism. We found this quite insightful and hope you will too! Here are her 5 money saving tips for adults with autism.
Challenge Accepted
As a kid, I always had a difficult time with challenges even before I was diagnosed with autism. . Challenges are all over the place and can come in various forms, from big to small. I often remember what my friend said, “Change is the only constant in this world”. I would soon face another challenge.
Autism: 6 ways to build self-esteem
Low self-esteem occurs across all genders, ages, income levels, and disABILITIES. Nuerodivergent adults with autism have a higher occurrence of struggling with self-worth than their neurotypical peers. CA Human Services works with neurodiverse Virginians – typically our clients are adults who have an autism spectrum disorder or similar diagnosis.