The ‘predictive brain’ concept in modern neuroscience is gaining attention in relation to autism, offering fresh insights into the condition. However, it’s crucial to recognize the diversity of the autism spectrum and involve autistic individuals in research and discussions. Empathy, flexibility, and support tailored to individual needs are vital for understanding and addressing autism effectively.
Tag Archives: autism
Realistic New Year’s Resolutions for 2024: Inspiration, Healthy Living, and Growing Together
The end of the year is quickly approaching, and that means it’s time to think about our New Year’s resolutions for 2024. For many of us, this is a tradition we like to uphold, but let’s be honest, how often have we actually kept our resolutions? This year, I want to take a different approach.Continue reading “Realistic New Year’s Resolutions for 2024: Inspiration, Healthy Living, and Growing Together”
Autism and the Festive Season: Unique Experiences and Coping Strategies
As the end-of-year festivities approach, many of us look forward to the joy and warmth these celebrations bring. However, for individuals with autism, this period can be fraught with unique challenges and sensory overloads. During the years I have gained invaluable insights into the experiences during these festive times, of myself but also of otherContinue reading “Autism and the Festive Season: Unique Experiences and Coping Strategies”
The Art of Communicating with Autistic People: 10 strategies
The article outlines ten evidence-based strategies for improving communication with individuals on the autism spectrum. These include using concise, direct language, framing messages positively, avoiding figurative speech, aligning verbal and non-verbal cues, using visual aids, allowing processing time, observing boundaries, promoting calm environments, and maintaining open communication. The strategies aim to foster respectful, effective interactions, thereby enhancing inclusivity and understanding in society.
The challenge of choosing gifts… autism and celebrations
I grapple with the dilemma of gift-giving, focusing on the balance between meaningfulness and practicality. I prefer utilitarian items in my living space and struggle with the concept of gifting, particularly to those who seemingly have everything. I share my practice of providing and asking for specific gift lists to ease the tension of surprise gifts, yet sometimes settle for small personalized trinkets. Ultimately, I emphasize the value placed on the intention behind every given gift.
Navigating December as an Autistic: Challengs and Celebrating Moments
December, viewed differently by everyone, brings about large social interactions, routine disruptions and varying emotions for many. For me, as an autistic, it’s a time for self-discovery, personal growth and connecting with loved ones. Despite requiring preparation, December can be unpredictable, making flexibility critical. Prioritizing stability, routine, and mental well-being, I view December as an opportunity to celebrate life’s victories and self-realizations.
Talking about autism at work
Autistic employees often face challenges in discussing their autism at work due to misunderstandings or fear of discrimination. Enhancing workplace inclusivity, providing suitable accommodations, and cultivating a supportive environment can help address these concerns.
“Is it autistic when my wife ends up eating in the car when going out?” … autism and relationships
“Is it autistic when my wife ends up eating in the car when going out?” Gianni asks me. I try to answer as good as possible this question.
Understanding the Essence of Autistic Flourishing
Photo by Saffu on Unsplash In the vast realm of autism research, there’s an essential concept that has been overlooked for far too long: the idea of Autistic individuals leading a flourishing life. While society has made strides in understanding autism, the conventional medical model has often overshadowed the broader perspective of well-being. In this blogContinue reading “Understanding the Essence of Autistic Flourishing”
From microbiomes to behaviour: new insights into autism and intestinal flora
The influence of the millions of bacteria in our intestines extends far beyond just our digestive system. Scientists have been investigating the connection between our brain and our intestines for several years: does the composition of our gut flora also say something about how we think or how we feel? And is there a link to autism? A new study is collecting data from around the world about the relationship between our gut flora and autism. In this article, I discuss the study and provide some critiques as an autistic adult
The European Autist 