In this blog I reflect on various life stages, sharing their struggle to let go of familiar patterns and adapt to change as someone living with autism. I write about societal expectations, perceiving the contrast between ‘normal’ and ‘abnormal’ behaviors. Despite challenges, I try to stay true to themselves and maintain empathy for others’ struggles.
Author Archives: Sam
NL: Ik ben Sam, ervaringswerker autisme / autismeambassadeur Sterkmakers in Autisme, en ben onder andere actief bij de Vlaamse Vereniging Autisme en GRIP vzw.
Ik ben samen met Roos. Daarnaast ben ik gek op schrijven, lezen, observatie, filosoferen, parafraseren, reageren, visualiseren enzo verder.
EN: I am Sam, known as Sam Peeters, known as 'Tistje', and I have been writing about autism in a broad sense since 2008. I am an adult man with autism and above-average intelligence. I have various limitations and disabilities. I live with my partner Roos, who is also intelligent and has autism. I work as an experience worker, for example at the Flemish parent and family association, for GRIPvzw, a civil rights organization advocating for equal rights for people with and without disabilities and have several others collaborations. I have experience in several kinds of support, contexts and both regular and higher education, where I have earned three bachelor's degrees. I have worked in different types of labor and various forms of support, aid, and care. I am also active on social media platforms like Facebook, X/Twitter, Tumblr, and Pinterest under the name 'Tistje'.
Beyond Quiet Rooms: Redefining Autism-Friendly Spaces
On the importance of creating an inclusive environment for individuals with autism, emphasizing the need for thoughtful adjustments without unintentional stigmatization. They highlight the mental exhaustion from planning and processing social interactions, as well as the value of post-event support. The focus is on understanding and accommodating diverse perspectives.
In de schaduw: leven in een sociale woning … autisme en wonen
Foto van Luca op Unsplash De voorbije maanden woon ik in een sobere sociale huurwoning, na jaren in een comfortabel privé-appartement te hebben geleefd. Dat was een hele cultuurshock, want ik ben geconfronteerd geweest met een wereld die zelden de krantenkoppen haalt. Het leven in deze omgeving is een voortdurende strijd voor de bewoners, die zichContinue reading “In de schaduw: leven in een sociale woning … autisme en wonen”
Beyond Roses and Chocolates: Autistic Love on Valentine’s
Valentine’s Day presents unique challenges for those on the autism spectrum due to social expectations and commercial pressure. Inclusivity can be improved by educating about diverse expressions of love and organizing autism-friendly events.
On my dreamhouse
The vision and view of my dream house
Inside the Autside: a misfit manifesto … a book review
A book review of the book “Inside the Autide: A Misfit Manifesto” by Martine Mussies, an insightful journey through her life as a bisexual, autistic woman in the Netherlands. Through personal stories, poetry and scientific insights, Martine emphasizes the unique experience of life with autism and argues for inclusiveness and appreciation of neurodiversity. The book challenges stereotypes and offers a deeper understanding of autism.
Why I Need More Quiet Time
Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash Life is super busy, and talking to people or hanging out can be really tiring for someone like me. I’m autistic, and sometimes, after being around others, I just need to be alone to feel better, kind of like how you feel super tired after a long day and justContinue reading “Why I Need More Quiet Time”
Happiness in autistic adults: some thoughts on a study
In this blog, I discuss the research of Dutch educational psychologist and autism coach Birsen Başar on happiness among adults with autism. Her research offers insightful findings on the meaning of happiness for adults with autism. The study, based on the experiences of 369 adults with autism, delves into their perception of happiness, factors contributing to it, and the role of their environment. The research highlights the need for tailored approaches to support the well-being and happiness of adults with autism, while emphasizing the importance of social support and societal inclusion. Following this, I also write a personal reflection.
The impact of autism on my life
I want to share insights into my experience with autism, emphasizing the diversity of individuals on the spectrum. I try to debunk stereotypes and highlight the multifaceted nature of autism, urging others to look beyond media portrayals. While not delving into medical aspects, I want to encourage seeking information from specialized sources and autistic networks. Autistic individuals, I try to stress, have unique strengths and challenges stemming from their genetics and brain functioning.
A concept for autistic work: AutiLife
Company Name: AutiLife Concept: AutiLife is a new company focused on helping autistic adults. It aims to create a supportive environment where these adults can find and use their talents, and improve their quality of life. AutiLife offers a program that includes work, social skills, personal growth, and well-being, all designed to provide a meaningfulContinue reading “A concept for autistic work: AutiLife”
The European Autist 