While autism affects millions of U.S. children and adults, it is commonly misunderstood, which can negatively impact autistic people’s well-being and deprive them of life’s richness. By learning more about autism and listening to the unique insights of those experiencing it, we can all support autistic people in living their fullest lives.
Autism is a pervasive developmental disability that affects communication, movement, and sensory processing. Autistic experiences vary widely, but among the more common are masking (i.e., hiding one’s more obvious autistic traits in ways that can be unconscious or reactive) and sensory overwhelm. These experiences can lead to meltdowns (i.e., periods of emotional dysregulation) and burnout (i.e., states of incapacitation and exhaustion), during which the person needs extra support.
Research suggests masking and unmet need for support may be linked to increased suicide risk among autistic people. However, it’s crucial to note that meltdowns and burnout are not necessarily signs of a suicidal crisis. This highlights the critical importance of listening to and understanding the individual’s experience, and providing tailored accommodation and inclusion—rather than repression—of autistic behaviors, whether in a family, community, or crisis setting.
Read more at SPRC.org.
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