What is Autism?

Autism is a lifelong neurodiverse disability. It can affect males and females of all ages and ethnicities. No one person with autism is the same - it is a spectrum condition that affects each individual differently even though many share similar sets of characteristics. 

Being autistic means that you can feel and react to things very differently to non-autistic / neurotypical people. Socialising can be confusing, in fact many autistic people have a tendency to mask (watch and copy expected social behaviours) which is extremely tiring day upon day. Some have intense interests and hobbies, many prefer to have order and routine to their day / tasks / journeys and the smallest change can be a bit challenge for them. Often autistic people will stim - whether this is vocally or physically - some are obvious and some are not - it is a way of them self-regulating their emotions. Many autistic people may struggle with communication difficulties - from being non-verbal, using Assisted Communication Aids to difficulties understanding simple social cues or facial expressions. Another challenge faced by some autistic people is how they process sensory inputs - such as lights, noise, smells, tastes and touch - they can be incredibly sensitive to certain inputs or can crave these inputs. Emotional regulation is often harder for autistic people and they may need more time and help to process feelings too.

It is incredible important to understand each individuals struggles and help be inclusive by adapting the surroundings, methods of care / learning, clothes, aids, food and hygiene care to help them thrive as continuous masking to fit in to every day life (school, social or work), along with sensory overloads, social pressures and communication issues can lead to deteriorating mental health issues and distress.

That's why at BEEING ME our wish to help everyone feel safer and more comfortable in their own skin help elevate some of the stresses with simple aids, and tips / helpful strategies and support that we have gained our our journey. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND ADVICE VISIT

NATIONAL AUTISTIC SOCIEY WEBSITE - National Autistic Society
NHS UK GUIDE TO AUTISM - Autism - NHS