Autism Spectrum News

Autism BrainNet connects families and researchers to advance understanding of #autism through post-mortem #BrainDonation. By facilitating groundbreaking studies on the cellular and molecular aspects of autism, this initiative sheds light on the biological foundations of autism and related conditions, offering hope for future #therapeutic breakthroughs. “Autism BrainNet: Promoting Understanding of Autism Through Brain Donation” By David Amaral, PhD and Marta Benedetti, PhD Autism BrainNet ?? Read the article: https://lnkd.in/e3qUKgbF #AutismResearch #Research #Neurodiversity #ScientificBreakthroughs #AutismCommunity #AdvancingScience #UnderstandingAutism

You're not alone this holiday season. ?? If you or someone you know is struggling with tough thoughts or emotions, reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Their trained, caring counselors are available 24/7 to listen to you and provide support. Text or call 988. 988lifeline.org

Read the article: https://lnkd.in/eQsmgbRB

As the #autistic population ages, addressing the unique challenges faced by autistic #OlderAdults become increasingly vital. This article explores the importance of intentional, culturally competent care, highlighting the risks of misdiagnosis, the impact of unmet support needs, and strategies for creating safer, more effective environments for autistic #adults in later life. “The Complexities of Aging: Addressing the Unique Needs of Autistic Elders” By Mary Donahue, PhD MINDFUL PATHS PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES ?? Read the article: https://lnkd.in/ekBVfAXu

#AutisticAdult Eric Schissel shares insights from his journey toward #SelfAcceptance and #resilience after a late #autism #diagnosis, exploring how #SensorySensitivities, #FamilySupport, and #MentalHealth tools helped him reframe past experiences and build new coping strategies. His reflections offer valuable lessons on #SelfAdvocacy, understanding personal needs, and embracing #community #resources. “Diagnosis, Resources, and Behavior Changes – A Journey of Self-Discovery” By Eric Schissel, MS Mental Health News Education (MHNE) ?? Read the article: https://lnkd.in/dYqBASsz Pat Schissel

What makes a kitchen #Accessible? Come behind the scenes in the Perkins Life Launch kitchen, where Tom gives us a tour and shows us how he prepares a hot chocolate. Perkins School for the Blind's new Life Launch program teaches young adults with #Disabilities the skills they need for a more independent future, including communication, #Advocacy, pre-employment, travel skills and more. Opening in July 2025, Life Launch helps students prepare to live and work as independently as possible. Now accepting Applications! Join our upcoming informational sessions. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/e2dPxrrK Alexandra LaVoie

Across the United States, communities are increasingly committed to #inclusivity, particularly for individuals with #autism and #DevelopmentalDisabilities. #Zoning policies, crucial to shaping neighborhoods, often present challenges to #accessibility and #affordability. By adopting inclusive practices and addressing regulatory complexities, cities aim to create environments where all residents can #thrive. “Zoning for Neuro-Inclusive Communities: Challenges, Foundations, and Lessons Learned” By Chenchen Zhang 2023-24 The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation Public Policy Fellow at the First Place AZ Global Leadership Institute ?? Read the article: https://lnkd.in/eHxUHDYG

Internalised Ableism is a hidden #workplace challenge yet a weight many #neurodivergent #employees bare. Internalised ableism is a form of self-discrimination where neurodivergent employees may internalise negative societal attitudes and stereotypes about their condition. This can lead to low self-esteem, feelings of inadequacy, and a reluctance to disclose information within the workplace. Internalised ableism may present in the workplace as: ???Self-doubt: Individuals may doubt their abilities and fear failure, even when they are highly qualified. ???Avoidance: They may avoid seeking accommodations or #support services, fearing negative judgment or #stigma. ???Perfectionism: To compensate for perceived limitations, they may strive for perfection, leading to burnout and stress. ??Underemployment: They may accept lower-paying or less fulfilling jobs than what they are capable of or not put their name forward for career progression opportunities (This is a big one!!!). ???Social isolation: They may withdraw from social interactions and avoid networking opportunities. Strategies that may assist to address internalised ableism include: ??Self-awareness: Educate yourself: Learn about disability rights and the social model of disability. ??Challenge negative thoughts: Identify and challenge negative self-talk. ???Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge your strengths. ?? Seek Support: Connect with others and join Employee Resource groups or online workplace communities. ???Advocate for Yourself: Know your rights: Familiarise yourself with your rights and #disability #discrimination laws. ???Request accommodations: Don't be afraid to ask for the support you need. ???Set boundaries: Learn to say no and prioritise your well-being. By understanding and addressing internalised ableism, we can create more inclusive and supportive workplaces for everyone. What additional #strategies have you found helpful within the workplace to address any internalised #ableism you may experience? Please comment below. This visual was created by #SpaghettiBrainedADHD and shared via their #Instagram page. #DisabilityAwareness #WorkplaceInclusion #Autistic #ADHD #Inclusive?#InclusionAndDiversity #Inclusion #NeurodiversityInBusiness #Awareness #DEI #Accessibility #Equity #AutismAwareness #Neurodiversity?#CapacityBuilding #UnconciousBias #FutureOfWork #InclusiveLeadership?#Workplace #Workforce #innovation #RepresentationMatters #NeurodiversityAtWork #DiversityAndInclusion #DiversityEquityInclusion #Dyslexia #AutismAtWork #Dyslexia #InclusionAndDiversity #InclusiveCulture #InclusiveWorkplace #OrganisationalCulture #Autism #InclusiveHiring #DisabilityInclusion #neurodiverse #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs #belonging #KateHalpin #EmployForAbility #Diversity?#MentalHealth #MentalHealthMatters #MentalHealthAwareness

#Autistic adult Michael John Carley explores critical shifts needed for genuine cultural change in the #disability world over the next 50 years. From confronting uncomfortable topics around #autonomy and #inclusion to addressing biases in #advocacy, Carley challenges us to redefine our perceptions of progress, pushing beyond token representation toward true behavioral pluralism and acceptance of #neurodiverse conditions as intrinsic to human #diversity. “What I’d Like to See Change in the Disability World Over the Next 50 Years – Part 3: REAL Culture Change” By Michael John Carley New York University Connections ASD Program ?? Read the article: https://lnkd.in/eyTYr6T3

Autistic people communicate, play, form relationships and sense the world around us differently. This means non-autistic people can need help understanding how they can be supportive friends for the Autistic people in their lives. Here are 6 tips on how you can be a good friend from the Reframing Autism team. #AskingAutistics what would you add to this list? #AutisticFriendship #Neurodiversity #AutisticAllies #AutisticRelationships #AutisticSocialSkills [ID: Against a blue background with the Reframing Autism logo at the top and knotwork in the bottom right, a white title reads: How non-autistics can be good friends to Autistic people. Beneath is a bulleted list of text boxes which reads: Remember, every one of us is different. Ask us about our unique support needs. Avoid making last minute changes to our plans. Don't assume that an Autistic meltdown is a tantrum or an Autistic shutdown is 'the silent treatment'. Accommodate our rapidly shifting sensory, environmental and social capacities. Accommodate our changing needs and wants. Research neurodiversity and listen to actually Autistic people.]