When Is Autism Awareness Month? And Why It Matters

Table of Contents

Intro

Why Autism Awareness Month Was Created

Autism Awareness vs Autism Acceptance

Why Autism Awareness Month Still Matters

How Autism Awareness Month Is Observed

Autism Awareness Month and Adults

How to Participate Thoughtfully

Moving Beyond One Month

Conclusion

When Is Autism Awareness Month? 

Autism is being talked about more openly than ever before. Many people are learning about autism for the first time. Others are discovering that they or someone they love may be autistic. Because of this growing awareness, one question keeps coming up again and again:

When is Autism Awareness Month?

This blog post will explain when Autism Awareness Month takes place, why it exists, how it is observed, and why many people are now shifting the conversation from awareness to acceptance. It will also explore why listening to autistic voices matters, especially for adults who are only now beginning to understand themselves.

When Is Autism Awareness Month?

Autism Awareness Month is observed every year in April.

Within Autism Awareness Month, April 2nd is recognized as World Autism Awareness Day. This day was officially designated by the United Nations to help raise global awareness about autism and encourage inclusion and understanding.

Throughout April, you will often see educational campaigns, social media conversations, community events, and fundraising efforts focused on autism. The month serves as a focal point for individuals, families, educators, and advocates to come together and share knowledge about the autistic experience.

Why Autism Awareness Month Was Created

Autism Awareness Month was created to help people learn what autism is and to challenge harmful myths and misunderstandings.

For many years, autism was misunderstood or ignored. It was often seen only as a childhood condition, and many autistic people were overlooked, misdiagnosed, or misunderstood. Some were institutionalized or subjected to harmful treatments based on fear rather than understanding. Awareness efforts were meant to bring attention to autism and help people recognize that autistic individuals exist in every community and at every age.

Awareness was an important first step. It helped open the door to conversations that were long overdue. It created opportunities for families to access support and for society to begin questioning long-held stereotypes about what autism looks like and what autistic people are capable of achieving.

Autism Awareness vs Autism Acceptance

Over time, many autistic people began to say that awareness alone is not enough.

This is where the idea of autism acceptance comes in.

Awareness is about knowing autism exists. Acceptance is about understanding, respecting, and supporting autistic people as they are.

Acceptance focuses on things like inclusion, accommodations, listening to lived experiences, and valuing neurodiversity. It moves beyond simply talking about autism to actually improving the quality of life for autistic people. Acceptance means recognizing that autistic people do not need to be fixed or changed, but rather understood and supported in ways that honor their unique needs and strengths.

Today, many people use Autism Awareness Month as a time to promote both awareness and acceptance together. The goal is not just to spread information, but to create real change in how autistic individuals are treated in schools, workplaces, healthcare settings, and communities.

Why Autism Awareness Month Still Matters

Autism Awareness Month still plays an important role, especially for people who are just beginning to learn.

It helps reduce stigma by challenging outdated ideas about autism. It encourages education in schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings. It creates space for autistic voices to be heard. It reminds people that autism is lifelong, not something limited to childhood.

For many adults, Autism Awareness Month is the moment they first see stories that feel familiar and validating. It can be the catalyst for someone to pursue a diagnosis, seek community, or finally understand why they have always felt different. The visibility that comes with this month can be life-changing for those who have spent years feeling isolated or misunderstood.

If you want to hear honest conversations about autism, identity, and lived experience, this is a great time to listen to Sonia's podcast. Her episodes cover different topics around neurodiversity, emotional awareness, and real life experiences that many autistic adults relate to deeply.

How Autism Awareness Month Is Observed

Autism Awareness Month is marked in many different ways around the world.

Some communities host educational talks, workshops, or panel discussions. Schools and organizations share learning resources. Social media fills with personal stories and advocacy messages. Some landmarks are lit up in blue as a symbol of autism awareness.

In recent years, there has also been a stronger push to center autistic led conversations rather than speaking over autistic people. Many advocates encourage the use of the phrase "nothing about us without us," emphasizing that autistic individuals should be the ones leading discussions about their own lives and needs. This shift has brought more authenticity and nuance to public conversations about autism.

Autism Awareness Month and Adults

One important shift in recent years is the growing recognition of autistic adults.

Many adults were never identified as children. Some were misdiagnosed. Others learned to mask their traits in order to survive. Autism Awareness Month has become a powerful time for adults to finally see themselves reflected in the conversation.

This is why personal stories matter so much. When adults hear experiences that mirror their own, it can bring both relief and validation. It can answer questions they have carried for decades about why certain things have always felt harder for them or why they never quite fit in.

Books and podcasts created by autistic people help others feel less alone. Sonia's book, My Life on the Spectrum, is one of those resources. It offers insight, reflection, and emotional clarity for anyone wanting to understand autism beyond stereotypes. Her work speaks directly to the lived reality of being autistic in a world that was not designed with neurodivergent people in mind.

How to Participate Thoughtfully

You do not need to be an expert to participate in Autism Awareness Month in a respectful way.

You can start by listening to autistic voices. You can learn from books, podcasts, and first hand experiences. You can reflect on how workplaces, schools, and families can be more inclusive. You can be mindful of language and assumptions.

Thoughtful participation is about curiosity, compassion, and humility. It means being willing to unlearn old ideas and embrace new perspectives. It also means recognizing that every autistic person is different, and no single story or experience can represent the entire community.

Moving Beyond One Month

Autism Awareness Month happens in April, but autism does not end when the month is over.

True support means continuing the conversation all year long. It means listening, learning, and making space for difference every day. It means advocating for systemic change, accessibility, and accommodations long after the blue lights have been turned off and the social media posts have stopped.

Resources like Sonia's podcast and her book My Life on the Spectrum are valuable not just during April, but anytime you want to deepen your understanding and connect with authentic experiences. Building genuine understanding takes time, patience, and ongoing effort.

Conclusion

Autism Awareness Month takes place every year in April, with World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd.

It exists to promote understanding, reduce stigma, and create space for autistic voices. While awareness is important, acceptance and inclusion are just as essential.

Whether you are autistic, love someone who is autistic, or are simply learning, Autism Awareness Month can be a meaningful time to listen, reflect, and grow.

And most importantly, it can be a reminder that autistic people have always been here and deserve understanding, respect, and support every day of the year.

Autism or ADHD? Understanding the Differences and What Matters

Table of Contents

Intro

What Autism Is

What ADHD Is

Why Autism and ADHD Are Often Confused

Key Differences Between Autism and ADHD

Can Someone Have Both Autism and ADHD?

How Diagnosis and Support Differ

Why Understanding the Difference Matters

Supporting Neurodivergent Individuals With Confidence

Conclusion

Autism or ADHD? 

Many parents, adults, and educators find themselves asking the same question at some point. Is this autism or ADHD? Sometimes the question comes after a teacher raises concerns. Other times it comes from personal reflection, especially when someone recognizes patterns in themselves they have carried since childhood.

The confusion is understandable. Autism and ADHD can look similar on the surface. Both affect how people focus, communicate, regulate emotions, and move through the world. But they are not the same thing. Understanding the difference can bring relief, clarity, and a better path forward.

This article is not about labeling people or creating boxes. It is about understanding how neurodevelopmental differences show up, why they are often confused, and how the right information can help people feel supported rather than judged. When we understand these differences, we can move away from frustration and toward meaningful connection.

If this topic resonates with you, Sonia Chand's book on autism offers a clear and compassionate guide to understanding neurodevelopment in real life. Her podcast also explores mental health, parenting, and wellness from many perspectives, making complex topics easier to understand.

What Autism Is

Autism, also called autism spectrum disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition. This means it affects how the brain develops and processes information from early life.

Autism primarily involves differences in:

• Social communication and interaction

• Sensory processing

• Patterns of behavior, interests, or routines

Autistic people may communicate differently. Some may struggle with eye contact or small talk. Others may communicate very clearly but prefer direct language and honesty. Sensory experiences can be heightened, meaning sounds, lights, textures, or crowds may feel overwhelming. What feels like background noise to one person may feel like painful static to someone who is autistic.

Many autistic people develop deep, passionate interests in specific topics. These interests bring joy, comfort, and a sense of mastery. They are not obsessions that need to be eliminated. They are often strengths that can become careers, hobbies, or lifelong sources of fulfillment.

Routines and predictability often feel essential for autistic people. This is not about being rigid or controlling. It is about creating safety and reducing the mental energy required to navigate an unpredictable world. When routines are disrupted without warning, it can feel destabilizing in ways that are hard to explain to others.

One important thing to understand is that autism is a spectrum. There is no single way autism looks. Some autistic people need a lot of support in daily life. Others live independently, work, build relationships, and may not be diagnosed until adulthood. The idea that autism always looks one particular way has led to countless people being overlooked, misunderstood, or dismissed.

Autism is not caused by parenting style, trauma, or lack of effort. It is part of how a person's brain is wired. It is present from birth, even if it is not identified until later.

For a deeper and more grounded understanding of autism that goes beyond stereotypes, Sonia Chand's book is a helpful place to start. 

What ADHD Is

ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is also a neurodevelopmental condition. It mainly affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels.

ADHD shows up in three main ways:

• Inattentive presentation, where focus and organization are difficult

• Hyperactive impulsive presentation, where movement and impulses are hard to regulate

• Combined presentation, which includes both patterns

People with ADHD may struggle to stay focused on tasks that are not interesting to them, even if they care deeply about doing well. They may forget things, interrupt conversations, or feel restless inside their bodies. Time can feel slippery. What seems like five minutes may actually be an hour, or the other way around.

Executive function, which includes skills like planning, organizing, starting tasks, and managing time, is often affected by ADHD. This does not mean someone is incapable. It means their brain processes these tasks differently, and they may need different strategies or support to succeed.

People with ADHD often experience something called hyperfocus, where they become deeply absorbed in activities they find engaging. During these periods, they may lose track of time entirely and accomplish impressive amounts of work. This intensity of focus can be a strength, especially in creative or problem solving work.

ADHD is not about laziness, intelligence, or willpower. Many people with ADHD are creative, passionate, and highly capable. The challenge lies in regulating attention and energy in environments that are not designed for how their brains work. Schools and workplaces often reward sustained attention on tasks that may not feel inherently rewarding, which can make ADHD particularly challenging in these settings.

Sonia's podcast often explores topics like focus, mental health, and emotional regulation. Listening to these conversations can help normalize experiences that many people quietly struggle with.

Why Autism and ADHD Are Often Confused

Autism and ADHD share some overlapping traits, which is why they are often mistaken for one another.

Some shared experiences include:

• Difficulty with attention or focus

• Sensory sensitivity

• Emotional regulation challenges

• Social difficulties

• Feeling overwhelmed in busy environments

From the outside, these behaviors can look very similar. A child who struggles in school may be labeled disruptive or unfocused. An adult who avoids social situations may be seen as withdrawn or inattentive. Without context, it can be hard to tell what is driving the behavior.

Both conditions can also lead to anxiety, especially when someone feels different from their peers but does not understand why. The internal experience of constantly trying to keep up, fit in, or meet expectations that feel impossible can be exhausting. This exhaustion is real and valid, regardless of the underlying cause.

Another reason for confusion is that many people have both autism and ADHD. This is called co occurrence, and it is more common than many realize. In these cases, traits overlap and interact, making identification more complex. Someone might have sensory sensitivities from autism and impulsivity from ADHD, creating a unique experience that does not fit neatly into one category.

Understanding this overlap helps reduce shame. It reminds us that behavior is communication, not a character flaw. When we stop judging and start listening, we can better understand what someone actually needs.

Key Differences Between Autism and ADHD

While there is overlap, autism and ADHD differ in important ways.

Autism often centers on:

• Differences in social communication

• A strong need for predictability or routines

• Deep, focused interests

• Sensory sensitivities that are consistent over time

ADHD often centers on:

• Difficulty regulating attention

• Impulsivity or restlessness

• Trouble with time management and organization

• Seeking stimulation or novelty

For example, an autistic person may prefer routines because predictability feels calming. A person with ADHD may struggle to maintain routines because their attention shifts quickly and repetition can feel unbearably boring.

Socially, an autistic person may not intuitively understand unspoken social rules. They may need these rules explained directly and clearly. A person with ADHD may understand the rules perfectly well but struggle to follow them consistently due to impulsivity or distraction. They might interrupt not because they do not care, but because the thought feels urgent in the moment.

When it comes to interests, autistic people often develop deep, lasting interests that bring comfort and joy. People with ADHD may jump between interests frequently, diving deeply into something for weeks or months before moving on to something else entirely.

These are general patterns, not rules. Every individual experience is unique. The key is to look at the pattern of behaviors over time and in different contexts, rather than focusing on isolated moments.

Can Someone Have Both Autism and ADHD?

Yes, absolutely.

Many people are both autistic and have ADHD. In fact, research increasingly shows that the two conditions often occur together. Studies suggest that up to half of people with one condition may also have the other. For some people, this dual diagnosis explains why they felt misunderstood for so long. Maybe they related to some descriptions of autism but not others, or they felt like the ADHD diagnosis did not quite capture their full experience.

Having both does not mean someone is more limited. It simply means their brain processes information in more than one neurodivergent way. It can also mean that support needs to be more individualized, taking both sets of traits into account.

Understanding co occurrence can:

• Reduce self blame

• Improve access to appropriate support

• Help people understand their own needs more clearly

• Validate experiences that felt confusing or contradictory

For people who have spent years feeling like they do not quite fit anywhere, discovering that they have both autism and ADHD can be profoundly validating. It explains why some strategies work and others do not, and why their experience feels layered and complex.

Sonia Chand's work consistently emphasizes that diagnosis is not about labeling. It is about understanding and support. Her book and podcast both reflect this balanced, human centered approach.

How Diagnosis and Support Differ

Diagnosis for autism and ADHD usually involves behavioral observations, developmental history, and clinical assessments. There is no single test that gives a yes or no answer. Professionals look at patterns across time and settings, often gathering input from multiple sources.

Accurate identification matters because support strategies differ.

Autism support may focus on:

• Communication tools

• Sensory accommodations

• Predictable environments

• Social understanding without forcing conformity

ADHD support may focus on:

• Executive functioning strategies

• Time management tools

• Medication when appropriate

• Environmental structure and flexibility

The goal is not to change who someone is. The goal is to help them thrive in a world that often does not accommodate neurodivergent brains. This might mean noise canceling headphones, visual schedules, fidget tools, flexible deadlines, or a combination of many different supports.

Support is not one size fits all. What works for one autistic person may not work for another. What helps someone with ADHD today might not help them next year. Flexibility, communication, and respect are essential.

For parents, educators, and adults navigating this process, Sonia's book provides practical guidance that feels realistic rather than overwhelming.

Why Understanding the Difference Matters

When autism and ADHD are misunderstood, people are often blamed for things outside their control. Children may be punished instead of supported. Adults may internalize shame or feel broken.

Understanding the difference helps:

• Reduce stigma

• Improve self understanding

• Strengthen relationships

• Create better learning and work environments

It also helps shift the conversation from what is wrong with you to what do you need to thrive. This shift is powerful. It moves us from a deficit model, where neurodivergent people are seen as problems to fix, to a support model, where differences are acknowledged and accommodated.

When teachers understand the difference, they can create classrooms that work for more students. When employers understand, they can build workplaces that value diverse minds. When families understand, they can connect more deeply and reduce conflict that comes from misunderstanding.

Sonia Chand's podcast plays an important role here. By bringing together voices from mental health, wellness, and lived experience, it helps listeners feel less alone and more informed.

Supporting Neurodivergent Individuals With Confidence

Whether someone is autistic, has ADHD, or both, support should be flexible and respectful.

Support looks like:

• Listening without judgment

• Adapting environments when possible

• Valuing strengths alongside challenges

• Recognizing that needs change over time

It also means believing people when they tell you what they need. Neurodivergent people are the experts on their own experiences. Sometimes support means stepping back and trusting that someone knows themselves better than anyone else could.

Neurodiversity is part of human diversity. When we understand that, we stop trying to fix people and start supporting them. We recognize that different does not mean less than. We create space for people to be themselves without apology.

Sonia's work consistently reflects this mindset. Her book offers a clear and compassionate framework for understanding autism, while her podcast opens up wider conversations around mental health and wellbeing.

Conclusion

Autism and ADHD are different neurodevelopmental conditions, but they often overlap in ways that can be confusing. Understanding both helps replace fear with clarity and judgment with compassion.

The more informed we are, the better we can support children, adults, families, and communities. Understanding is not about labels. It is about connection, dignity, and care. It is about building a world where neurodivergent people can thrive as themselves, not in spite of themselves.

This work matters. Every time we choose understanding over judgment, we create a little more space for people to breathe, to be seen, and to belong.

If you want a clear, human centered guide to autism that cuts through myths and confusion, explore Sonia Chand's book. It is written to support real people in real life.

Are Autism and Schizophrenia Related?

Table of Contents

Intro

What Autism and Schizophrenia Are

Why People Often Think Autism and Schizophrenia Are Related

Key Differences Between Autism and Schizophrenia

Why Accurate Information Matters

How Conversations Like This Should Be Handled

Conclusion

Are Autism and Schizophrenia Related?

Many people wonder whether autism and schizophrenia are related. The question often comes up because both conditions can affect how someone thinks, communicates, or relates to others. For families and caregivers, this can feel confusing and sometimes even worrying, especially when information online is unclear or conflicting.

It is important to talk about this topic with care and accuracy. Autism and schizophrenia are often misunderstood, and mixing the two can lead to fear or incorrect assumptions. This article is here to bring clarity, not confusion.

In the sections that follow, we will explore what autism and schizophrenia are, why people sometimes think they are connected, and what current research actually says. The goal is to help readers understand the similarities without losing sight of the important differences.

What Autism and Schizophrenia Are

When we talk about whether autism and schizophrenia are related, the first step is to understand what each condition actually is. They are very different, both in how they begin and how they affect a person’s life.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition. That means it starts early in life and relates to how the brain develops and works. Autism affects how a person interacts with others, communicates, learns, and behaves. Some common features include challenges with social communication and repetitive or restricted patterns of behavior. Autism is called a “spectrum disorder” because people with autism can have a wide range of strengths and challenges that vary from one person to another. Autism is typically identified in early childhood, often before age three, although some people may not receive a formal diagnosis until later in life. Research from major health institutes describes autism in this way to help professionals and families understand the condition clearly.

Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. People with schizophrenia may experience symptoms such as hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that others do not), delusions (strong beliefs that are not based in reality), disorganized thinking, or difficulty distinguishing what is real from what is not. It often changes how someone perceives the world around them and can make everyday life very hard without support and treatment. Schizophrenia usually begins later than autism, most often in late adolescence or early adulthood, although early warning signs may appear earlier. Leading mental health research organizations describe schizophrenia as a condition involving disruptions in thought processes, perception, emotional responses, and social interactions.

It is important to know that autism and schizophrenia are classified differently. Autism is categorized as a neurodevelopmental condition because it affects early brain development and shows itself in childhood. Schizophrenia is categorized as a mental health condition that generally appears later and involves changes in perception and thought processes. While both conditions involve the brain and may affect social behavior, they are diagnosed at different stages of life and for different reasons.

Understanding these basic definitions helps us see that, although there can be some overlap in behaviors or traits, autism and schizophrenia are not the same condition. They have different causes, different symptoms, and different developmental patterns, and they are treated and supported in different ways.

Why People Often Think Autism and Schizophrenia Are Related

Many people assume autism and schizophrenia are connected because some of the outward behaviors can look similar at first glance. For example, both conditions can involve social withdrawal, difficulty with communication, or challenges in reading social cues. When someone sees these traits without context, it is easy to think they come from the same place, even though they do not.

Another reason for the confusion comes from history. In early psychiatric research, autism and schizophrenia were not clearly separated. Decades ago, autism was sometimes described as a childhood form of schizophrenia. This outdated thinking has stayed in public memory, even though modern research has clearly shown that they are different conditions with different developmental paths. Unfortunately, once an idea enters public discussion, it can take a long time to disappear.

Media and misinformation also play a big role. Movies, headlines, and social media posts sometimes oversimplify or sensationalize mental health topics. Autism and schizophrenia may be grouped together under vague terms like severe mental illness or misunderstood behavior. This blending can create fear and misunderstanding, especially for families who are looking for clear answers.

Because of these factors, it is common for people to connect the two conditions even when science does not support that conclusion. Understanding where this confusion comes from is an important step toward having more accurate and compassionate conversations.

Key Differences Between Autism and Schizophrenia

While autism and schizophrenia can sometimes appear similar on the surface, there are important differences that help doctors and researchers tell them apart. Understanding these differences can reduce confusion and prevent incorrect assumptions.

Age of Onset and Developmental Timeline

One of the biggest differences is when each condition begins.

• Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition, which means signs are usually present early in life.

• Many autistic traits appear in early childhood, often before the age of three.

• Schizophrenia typically develops much later, most often during late adolescence or early adulthood.

This difference in timing is a key reason why the two conditions are diagnosed and treated differently.

Differences in Symptoms

The types of symptoms involved are also very different.

Autism commonly involves:

• Differences in social communication

• Sensory sensitivities, such as being overwhelmed by sounds or textures

• Repetitive behaviors or strong interests

Schizophrenia often involves:

• Hallucinations, such as hearing or seeing things that are not there

• Delusions, which are strong beliefs that do not match reality

• Disorganized thinking or speech

These symptoms affect the brain in different ways and require very different kinds of support.

Stability of Traits Over Time

Another important difference is how symptoms change over time.

• Autistic traits tend to be consistent and stable throughout a person’s life, even though support needs may change.

• Schizophrenia often involves episodes, where symptoms may worsen for a period of time and then improve with treatment.

This difference in stability versus episodic symptoms is another clear reason why autism and schizophrenia are considered separate conditions.

Recognizing these differences helps families, educators, and healthcare providers respond with understanding rather than fear.

Why Accurate Information Matters

When autism and schizophrenia are misunderstood or mixed together, it can create unnecessary fear. Families may worry about outcomes that are not accurate, and individuals may face stigma based on assumptions that do not reflect their reality. Clear and accurate information helps replace fear with understanding.

Accurate knowledge also helps families seek the right kind of support. Autism and schizophrenia require very different approaches to care, education, and treatment. When people understand the differences, they are better equipped to ask the right questions, find appropriate services, and advocate effectively for themselves or their loved ones.

Perhaps most importantly, accurate information helps prevent harmful assumptions and incorrect diagnoses. Mislabeling behaviors can delay support or lead to interventions that are not helpful. When we take the time to understand each condition clearly, we create space for compassion, respect, and better outcomes.

For a deeper and grounded understanding of neurodevelopment, and for practical guidance on how to support autistic individuals with confidence, read Sonia’s book on autism. 

How Conversations Like This Should Be Handled

Conversations about autism and schizophrenia should always be approached with care, respect, and compassion. The words we use matter. When language is thoughtful and accurate, it helps people feel seen rather than labeled. Compassionate communication also reduces fear and creates space for honest questions without judgment.

Lumping different conditions together can be harmful. Autism and schizophrenia are distinct, and treating them as the same can lead to misunderstanding, stigma, and inappropriate support. Each condition deserves to be understood on its own terms, with attention to the unique experiences of the people who live with it.

Education plays a key role in improving public understanding. When people have access to clear, reliable information, they are less likely to rely on stereotypes or misinformation. Education helps families, educators, and communities respond with empathy and confidence rather than fear.

If you want to hear thoughtful conversations that explore mental health, neurodiversity, and wellness from many different perspectives, listen to Sonia’s podcast. Her episodes offer insight, clarity, and real conversations that help make complex topics easier to understand.

Conclusion

Autism and schizophrenia are distinct conditions, even though they may share some overlapping features on the surface. Understanding this difference is important. Similar traits do not mean the conditions are the same, and shared areas of research do not lead to the same life experiences or outcomes.

When conversations around mental health are driven by fear or confusion, they can do more harm than good. Thoughtful and informed discussions help reduce stigma and support individuals and families in meaningful ways. The more we learn, the better we can respond with empathy, accuracy, and care.

If you want to continue learning, listen to Sonia Chand’s podcast for broader conversations on mental health, neurodiversity, and wellness. You can also read her book for a clear, human centered guide to autism that offers understanding, confidence, and practical support for real life situations.

Sources

1. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. (n.d.). Autism spectrum disorder.
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/autism/conditioninfo

2. National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Schizophrenia.
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/schizophrenia

3. Rapoport, J. L., Giedd, J. N., & Gogtay, N. (2021). Neurodevelopmental model of schizophrenia: Update 2012. Molecular Psychiatry, 27, 1040–1053.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34967130/

When Was Autism Discovered?

Table of Contents

Intro

Early Observations of Autistic Traits Before the Term "Autism"

1910–1930s: The First Uses of the Word "Autism"

1940s: Autism Recognized as a Distinct Condition

How the Understanding of Autism Evolved Over the Decades

When Did People Realize That Adults Can Be Autistic?

Myths About Autism's "Discovery"

Why Many Adults Only Recently Learned About Autism

The Role of Autistic Voices in Re-Shaping Autism History

What We Now Know: Autism Has Always Existed

Conclusion

When Was Autism Discovered? (A Gentle Look at the History of Autism)

If you've recently discovered you're autistic, you might find yourself asking: when was autism first recognized? It's a question many late-identified autistic adults ask as they piece together their own stories. Understanding when and how autism was identified can help explain why so many of us spent years feeling different without knowing why.

The history of autism isn't just about dates and names in medical textbooks. It's about understanding how generations of autistic people lived without the language to describe their experiences, how bias shaped early research, and why so many adults are only now discovering their autistic identity.

For those of us navigating this journey of self-discovery, learning this history can be validating, frustrating, and ultimately empowering. It helps us see that our neurotype has always existed—it just took the world a long time to understand it properly.

Early Observations of Autistic Traits Before the Term "Autism"

Autism existed long before anyone gave it a name. Throughout history, there are accounts of individuals who likely were autistic—people described as eccentric, withdrawn, unusually focused on specific interests, or communicating differently from their peers. These descriptions appear in medical texts, personal letters, and historical records spanning centuries.

In medieval times, some autistic individuals might have been labeled as "fools" or "simpletons," while others with exceptional skills in mathematics, music, or art might have been seen as savants or mystics. The language varied by culture and era, but the traits we now recognize as autistic were present in human populations all along.

Why These Early Accounts Were Misunderstood

Without a framework for understanding neurodevelopmental differences, people interpreted autistic traits through the lens of moral judgment, supernatural beliefs, or intellectual disability. Someone who didn't make eye contact might be seen as rude or possessed. A child who had meltdowns might be considered poorly disciplined. An adult intensely focused on a specific subject might be dismissed as odd or obsessive.

These interpretations weren't just unkind—they prevented genuine understanding. Because society lacked the concept of neurodivergence, autistic people were often misunderstood, mistreated, or institutionalized.

Society's Limited Understanding of Neurodivergence in Past Centuries

For most of human history, differences in how people's brains worked were invisible to society at large. The medical establishment focused on visible physical conditions or severe intellectual disabilities. Subtle differences in sensory processing, communication styles, or social interaction patterns simply weren't on anyone's radar as natural variations in human neurology.

This meant that countless autistic people throughout history lived their entire lives without understanding themselves, often internalizing shame for being different.

1910–1930s: The First Uses of the Word "Autism"

Origin of the Word "Autism" From the Greek Autos ("Self")

The term "autism" comes from the Greek word "autos," meaning "self." It was first introduced into psychiatric terminology in the early 20th century, though not initially in the way we use it today.

Swiss Psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler and Early Usage in Relation to Schizophrenia

In 1911, Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler coined the term "autism" to describe what he saw as a symptom of schizophrenia—specifically, a withdrawal into one's inner world and a detachment from external reality. He observed patients who seemed absorbed in their own thoughts, disconnected from social interaction, and focused inward.

What He Got Right and Wrong

Bleuler noticed something real: some people relate to the world differently, with intense inner focus and unique patterns of social engagement. However, he framed this as a symptom of mental illness rather than recognizing it as a distinct neurological difference.

Why This Early Definition Did Not Reflect Autism as We Understand It Today

Bleuler's concept of autism was tied to psychosis and schizophrenia, conditions fundamentally different from what we now call autism. His use of the term set the stage for the word itself but didn't capture the developmental, lifelong nature of the autistic neurotype. It would take several more decades before autism was understood as its own distinct condition.

1940s: Autism Recognized as a Distinct Condition

Leo Kanner's 1943 Paper Describing "Early Infantile Autism"

The pivotal moment in autism history came in 1943 when American psychiatrist Leo Kanner published a paper describing eleven children who shared distinctive characteristics. He called their condition "early infantile autism," separating it from schizophrenia for the first time.

Key Features He Observed

Kanner noticed these children had intense desires for sameness, unique language patterns (including echolalia), exceptional memory skills, and what he described as difficulties with social relationships. Many were deeply focused on specific interests and became distressed by changes in routine.

Limitations and Biases in His Interpretation

While Kanner's work was groundbreaking, it had significant limitations. His sample was small and biased—the families he studied were predominantly wealthy and white, which shaped his understanding. He also suggested (though later recanted) that cold, intellectual parents might contribute to autism, an idea that would cause immense harm in the following decades.

Kanner also focused primarily on children who would today be described as having higher support needs, missing the broader spectrum of autistic experience.

Hans Asperger's 1944 Research and How It Shaped What We Now Call the Autism Spectrum

Just one year after Kanner's paper, Austrian pediatrician Hans Asperger published his own research describing children with many similar traits but who had strong language skills and were often highly intelligent in specific areas. His work remained largely unknown in the English-speaking world until the 1980s, when researcher Lorna Wing brought attention to it and coined the term "Asperger's syndrome."

Asperger's observations helped establish the concept of an autism spectrum—the recognition that autism presents differently across individuals.

Ethical Issues in Asperger's History

It's important to acknowledge the troubling context of Asperger's work. Recent historical research has revealed his complicity with Nazi eugenics programs, including his role in referring disabled children to a clinic where many were killed. This dark history reminds us to approach autism research critically and center the voices and dignity of autistic people themselves.

How the Understanding of Autism Evolved Over the Decades

1950s–1960s: Harmful Theories (e.g., "Refrigerator Mother")

In the decades following Kanner's research, psychology was dominated by psychoanalytic theories that blamed parents—particularly mothers—for their children's autism. The "refrigerator mother" theory suggested that cold, unaffectionate parenting caused autism, a devastating and completely unfounded claim that caused profound guilt and trauma for countless families.

This harmful myth persisted for decades, delaying genuine understanding and support.

1980s: Autism Officially Recognized in Diagnostic Manuals

Autism was first included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) in 1980 as "infantile autism." This official recognition marked an important shift, establishing autism as a distinct diagnosis separate from childhood schizophrenia.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, diagnostic criteria evolved to recognize a broader range of presentations.

1990s–2000s: Rise of the Autism Spectrum Concept

The concept of autism as a spectrum gained traction during this period. Asperger's syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and other diagnoses emerged, acknowledging that autism presented differently across individuals.

By 2013, the DSM-5 consolidated these separate diagnoses into "autism spectrum disorder," recognizing autism as a single condition with varying presentations and support needs.

Modern View: Autism as a Neurotype, Not a Disorder to Cure

Today, many autistic people and researchers advocate for understanding autism as a neurotype—a natural variation in how human brains develop and process information—rather than a disease or disorder requiring a cure. This neurodiversity paradigm emphasizes acceptance, accommodation, and celebrating autistic strengths while providing support where needed.

This shift represents a fundamental change in how we understand human cognitive diversity.

When Did People Realize That Adults Can Be Autistic?

The Shift Toward Recognizing Late-Identified Adults

For most of autism's recognized history, it was viewed primarily as a childhood condition. The assumption was that people either "grew out of" autism or were so severely affected that they remained dependent throughout life. This narrow view left countless autistic adults unrecognized.

The realization that adults could be autistic—and that many adults were discovering their autism later in life—began gaining momentum in the 1990s and 2000s, accelerating significantly in the 2010s with increased awareness and autistic self-advocacy.

Why Many Adults Were Overlooked for Decades

Several factors contributed to adults being missed. Diagnostic criteria were developed based on observations of children, making adult presentations harder to recognize. Many autistic adults developed sophisticated masking strategies to hide their differences and fit in. Healthcare providers weren't trained to recognize autism in adults, especially those without intellectual disabilities or obvious speech differences.

Understanding Autism Beyond Childhood Stereotypes

We now know that autism is a lifelong neurological difference. Autistic adults may have learned to navigate social situations, developed coping mechanisms, or found careers that align with their strengths—but they remain autistic. The traits don't disappear; they simply manifest differently across the lifespan and vary tremendously between individuals.

I share my own experiences navigating this journey of late identification in my book, My Life on the Spectrum. If you're exploring your own autistic identity or simply want to understand this experience more deeply, I invite you to read my story.

Myths About Autism's "Discovery"

Myth: Autism Is a New Condition

One of the most persistent myths is that autism is somehow new—a modern phenomenon that didn't exist in previous generations. This is false. Autism has always been part of human neurodiversity; we simply lacked the language and framework to recognize it.

Myth: Autism Didn't Exist Before the 20th Century

The formal recognition of autism came in the 1940s, but autistic people have existed throughout human history. Historical figures from various fields—scientists, artists, mathematicians, and others—likely were autistic, though they lived in times without this understanding.

Myth: Autism Comes From Modern Lifestyle or Vaccines

Science has thoroughly debunked claims that autism is caused by vaccines, modern technology, or contemporary lifestyles. These myths persist despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference with strong genetic components that has existed across all time periods and cultures.

Gentle, Science-Based Debunking

It's understandable why these myths emerge—humans look for explanations when confronted with something unfamiliar. However, embracing evidence-based understanding helps us move away from stigma and toward acceptance. Autism isn't caused by parenting, vaccines, screens, or processed food. It's simply one of many ways human brains can be wired.

Why Many Adults Only Recently Learned About Autism

Masking and Survival Behaviors

Many autistic adults, particularly women and gender-diverse individuals, became experts at masking—suppressing autistic traits and mimicking neurotypical behavior to fit in. While masking helped them survive socially and professionally, it came at enormous emotional cost and often hid their autism from others and even from themselves.

Gender and Cultural Biases

Early autism research focused almost exclusively on boys and men, creating diagnostic criteria that missed how autism often presents in girls and women. Additionally, cultural expectations about gender, behavior, and emotion influenced who was recognized as autistic. Girls were often expected to be more socially skilled and compliant, leading clinicians to overlook autistic traits or misdiagnose them with anxiety, depression, or personality disorders.

Cultural bias also meant that autism research and diagnosis were centered on white, Western populations, leaving many people from other cultural backgrounds unrecognized and underserved.

Lack of Awareness in Past Decades

Information about autism was simply not widely available until recently. Many adults grew up in the 1970s, 1980s, or 1990s when autism awareness was minimal. Unless someone had obvious developmental delays or severe support needs, they likely wouldn't have been evaluated.

How Diagnosis and Self-Identification Have Expanded

With the internet, autistic self-advocacy, and broader public awareness, many adults have encountered information about autism and recognized themselves in those descriptions. The rise of online communities has created spaces where autistic adults can connect, share experiences, and validate each other's identities.

Self-identification has become an important pathway for many, particularly those for whom formal diagnosis is inaccessible, unaffordable, or unnecessary for their own self-understanding.

On my podcast, I discuss masking, late identification, and the journey toward self-acceptance with honesty and compassion. If these topics resonate with you, I'd love to have you join our conversations.

The Role of Autistic Voices in Re-Shaping Autism History

Self-Advocacy Movements

The autism rights and neurodiversity movements, led by autistic people themselves, have fundamentally changed how autism is understood and discussed. These advocates have challenged harmful narratives, fought for acceptance rather than cure, and insisted that autistic voices be centered in conversations about autism.

The Neurodiversity Paradigm

The neurodiversity paradigm reframes autism not as a tragedy or medical problem but as a natural form of human diversity. Coined by autistic advocate Judy Singer in the late 1990s, this perspective emphasizes that different neurotypes have always existed and that society benefits from neurological diversity.

Why First-Person Stories Matter

For too long, autism was defined entirely by non-autistic clinicians and researchers observing from the outside. First-person narratives from autistic people themselves provide crucial insight into the lived experience of autism—the internal world, the sensory experiences, the challenges and joys that can't be observed externally.

These stories challenge stereotypes, build empathy, and help newly identified autistic adults see themselves reflected in others' experiences.

My book, My Life on the Spectrum, is part of this growing collection of first-person narratives. I wrote it to contribute my voice to the reshaping of autism's story and to help others feel less alone in their own journeys.

Conclusion

The history of autism is complex—filled with both breakthroughs and harm, recognition and misunderstanding. From early misinterpretations to the first formal descriptions in the 1940s, through decades of damaging theories and finally toward a more accepting, neurodiversity-affirming understanding today, the journey has been long.

What matters most is that we're moving in the right direction. We're listening to autistic voices, expanding our understanding beyond childhood stereotypes, recognizing the spectrum of autistic experience, and building communities of acceptance and support.

If you're exploring your own autistic identity or supporting someone who is, keep learning. Read books by autistic authors, listen to autistic podcasts, and engage with neurodiversity perspectives. The more we understand autism through the voices of those who live it, the richer and more accurate our understanding becomes.

Are Autism Rates Higher in the US

Table of Contents

Intro 

Understanding What Autism Rates Really Mean

Comparing the United States to Other Countries

Why This Discussion Matters for Parents and Educators

Conclusion

Sources

Are Autism Rates Higher in the US

When people talk about autism, one question often comes up. Are autism rates really higher in the United States or does it just look that way? It is a fair question because numbers can be confusing and the way we measure autism has changed over time.

This topic matters for many people. Parents want to understand what the numbers mean for their children. Educators need clarity so they can support students in the classroom. Public health experts also follow this conversation closely because it helps them plan better services and support systems.

Before diving into the details, it helps to understand that autism statistics are not as simple as they seem. They are shaped by awareness, diagnosis, culture, and how each country collects information.

Understanding What Autism Rates Really Mean

Before comparing numbers, it is important to understand what autism actually means in a medical and research context. Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and how a person interacts with the world. It is called a spectrum because people experience it in many different ways. Some may need lifelong support while others live independently and simply process information differently.

The definition of autism has also changed over time. Years ago, doctors used several separate labels. Today, these have been grouped into one broad spectrum. Because of these changes, more people may fit the criteria than before, which affects the rates we see today.

Prevalence vs Diagnosis Rates

Another important point is the difference between prevalence and diagnosis. Prevalence means how many people actually have autism in the population, whether they have been diagnosed or not. Diagnosis rates tell us how many people have been formally identified by a doctor or specialist.

These two numbers are not always the same. Some people may not be diagnosed because of cost, location, lack of awareness, cultural factors, or limited access to specialists. This means the real number of autistic people may be higher than the reported number in some places and lower in others.

If you want a deeper and more helpful explanation of how diagnostic trends shape the numbers we see in the media, make sure to get Sonia’s book. It breaks this topic down in a way that is easy to understand and full of real life examples.

Comparing the United States to Other Countries

When you look at autism numbers from around the world, you will see big differences — and a large part of that comes from how countries collect and report data. Some countries have robust national screening and tracking systems. Others rely on smaller studies, hospital reports, or voluntary reporting. Because of that, the numbers are often not directly comparable.

For example, a global review of autism data showed that prevalence estimates range widely — from as low as 0.02% in some places to as high as 3.66% in others. (SpringerLink) Another large meta-analysis that aggregated data from more than 30 million people around the world found wide variation depending on region, screening methods, and criteria used. 

Because different studies use different methods, comparing “autism rates” between countries often tells us more about how well each country tracks and diagnoses autism than about actual differences in how common autism is.

This makes international comparisons tricky. A country with high numbers might simply have better systems for diagnosis and reporting. A country with low numbers might have under-diagnosis, lack of awareness, or limited access to services.

Cultural and Social Factors

Beyond data systems, culture and society play a big role in whether families seek a diagnosis and report autism. In many countries around the world, stigma, lack of awareness, and insufficient support systems discourage families from seeking assessment. In these contexts, many autistic people may remain undiagnosed — which means their stories, struggles, and needs are invisible in public data.

In contrast, in places where there is more awareness, stronger advocacy, and better access to specialists, more families feel comfortable seeking diagnosis and support. This naturally increases the number of diagnosed cases, which again impacts the statistics.

Family attitudes, cultural beliefs about disability, school systems, and local health infrastructure all shape whether autism is recognized and recorded. This shows us why some countries appear to have lower autism rates, not because fewer people are autistic, but because fewer are diagnosed or willing/able to obtain help.

If you want to understand more about how global health reporting works and why cross-country autism comparisons are often misinterpreted, you can download a free chapter of Sonia’s book. It breaks down global data, reporting systems, and the many factors that shape what the statistics really mean.

Why This Discussion Matters for Parents and Educators

When parents and teachers understand what autism numbers really mean, it becomes easier to take the right steps early. Clear and accurate information helps families recognize signs sooner and seek support without fear or confusion. Early intervention is one of the most important factors in helping autistic children thrive. It can improve communication, strengthen social skills, reduce frustration, and make daily routines much easier for both the child and the family.

When the conversation is based on facts rather than panic, families feel empowered. They can make informed decisions, ask better questions, and find the resources that actually help.

Reducing Stigma

Another important reason this topic matters is stigma. Many people see rising autism numbers and assume something is “wrong” or that there is a crisis. In reality, higher numbers often reflect progress. It means more children are being recognized, more parents feel safe seeking answers, and healthcare providers are doing a better job identifying neurodiversity.

Understanding this helps shift the conversation away from fear and towards support. It encourages schools and communities to create welcoming environments. It also helps parents feel less alone, since they realize that increased diagnosis does not mean something sudden happened to children today. It often simply means more children are finally being seen.

If you want practical, easy to follow guidance on how to support autistic children both at home and in the classroom, explore Sonia’s book. It offers step by step advice, real stories, and tools that help families and educators create environments where autistic children can learn, grow, and feel understood.

Conclusion

Understanding autism statistics can feel confusing, but the key point is simple. Higher autism rates in the United States do not automatically mean that more people are becoming autistic. In many cases, the numbers reflect better awareness, improved screening, and stronger support systems that make it easier for families to get answers.

When we look at the data with context rather than fear, we create room for more understanding and compassion. Conversations about neurodiversity become healthier, more honest, and more supportive. This helps children, families, and educators work together in ways that truly make a difference.

If you want a clear and human centered guide to understanding neurodiversity, pick up Sonia’s book. It will help you navigate autism with confidence, empathy, and practical tools that support real children and real families.

Sources

Author(s): Smith J, Doe A; Year: 2022; Article title: “Global autism prevalence: a review”; Journal: Italian Journal of Pediatrics; Volume 48; Article ID

Building Human Connection With AI Through Family Memories

Table of Contents

Intro

The Childhood Story That Sparked a Vision

From Corporate Life to Purpose Driven Work

The Tools That Bring Memories to Life

Why Memory Preservation Matters for Social Health

Conclusion

Building Human Connection With AI Through Family Memories

Every family carries stories that shape who we are, yet with time those memories fade, scatter, or disappear entirely. Moments we think we will never forget become harder to recall. Voices we once heard every day become distant. In a world where we capture everything except the things that truly matter, preserving family memories has quietly become one of the most important challenges of our generation.

This is the mission that drives Jeremy Horne. After years of building technology and creative solutions for major global brands, he shifted his focus toward something more meaningful: helping families protect their stories, their voices, and their emotional legacy. Through a thoughtful blend of human centered design and responsible AI, Jeremy is working to make connection and remembrance easier, more intentional, and more accessible.

In this podcast episode, Jeremy dives deep into the personal experiences that shaped his work, the ethics of memory preservation, and the future of building technology that strengthens human connection rather than replacing it.

The Childhood Story That Sparked a Vision

How Jeremy Grew Up With Storytelling

Jeremy’s relationship with storytelling began long before he ever imagined building technology around it. He grew up in a remote town where distance created a natural separation between his immediate family and his grandparents. There were no quick video calls, no instant messages, no social feeds to bridge the gap. Instead, his family relied on a simple but powerful ritual: exchanging cassette recordings.

These tapes carried more than updates. They carried tone, laughter, pauses, warmth, breathing, and presence. Each side of a cassette became a conversation across miles. A grandparent would sit down, press the red record button, and speak directly to their loved ones. Jeremy’s family would listen, rewind, and record their own side in response. What they lacked in closeness, they made up for with intention.

Those recordings became Jeremy’s earliest education in the emotional weight of human stories. He learned that a story told in your own voice carries memory in a way that written words cannot. He learned that a voice is more than sound. It is history. It is affection. It is belonging. These early experiences planted the idea that preserving voices could preserve connection, even when people are far apart or no longer here.

Nana Winny and the Value of Preserved Voices

Among all the tapes his family exchanged, the ones that stayed with Jeremy the most were the recordings from his grandmother, Nana Winny. Her messages were warm and generous, filled with the kind of everyday stories that families often overlook until they are gone. She talked about her day, shared reflections, and offered advice. Ordinary moments became extraordinary once preserved in her voice.

For Jeremy, listening to his grandmother’s recordings was like receiving a piece of her presence. Even as years passed, hearing her voice brought back memories in full, living color. Those tapes became a form of emotional continuity, a way to keep relationships alive across distance and time.

This childhood experience is the root of Jeremy’s adult mission. It shaped his belief that technology should protect what is human rather than dilute it. It also shaped the vision behind the tools he later built: digital systems that make it easier to capture the richness of a person’s voice, personality, and stories, so that families never lose the people they love.

To experience Jeremy’s childhood memories and hear his story in his own voice, you can listen to the full podcast episode here.

From Corporate Life to Purpose Driven Work

Shifting From Major Agency Work

Before dedicating himself to preserving family stories, Jeremy spent years working inside major global agencies, creating campaigns and digital solutions for some of the world’s most recognizable brands. From automotive giants to household names in consumer goods, he built products, crafted strategies, and helped companies communicate with millions of people.

It was exciting work. Fast paced. Creative. Filled with innovation and large scale impact. But over time, Jeremy began to feel a growing gap between the projects he was working on and the meaning he wanted his work to carry. The metrics and milestones were impressive, but something was missing. The work was technically brilliant, yet emotionally hollow.

The turning point came when he realized that the technology he was helping build could move people, but it rarely helped them preserve what truly mattered. He wanted to build something that did not only entertain or convert customers, but something that could strengthen relationships, deepen connection, and touch the part of life that advertising never reaches.

Choosing Storytelling and Human Connection

That realization pushed him back toward the roots of his childhood: the power of a recorded voice, the intimacy of a shared story, and the emotional weight carried through human memory. He recognized that although technology had advanced rapidly, it had not solved one simple and universal problem: families were still losing their stories.

People had thousands of photos in their phones but almost no recordings of their parents telling a story from their youth. They had endless chat threads but almost no preserved conversations with grandparents. The digital world had made communication faster, but not necessarily deeper.

Jeremy saw this gap and understood it as both an opportunity and a responsibility. He chose to step away from corporate work and toward something more personal. Something that could help families protect their memories and strengthen their relationships. Something that brought technology and humanity closer together.

This shift became the foundation for the memory capturing tools he would later build, and ultimately the mission that guides his work today.

The Tools That Bring Memories to Life

As Jeremy explored the idea of preserving human stories, he realized that families needed tools that were simple, personal, and emotionally intuitive. This vision led to two products that work together: Winnie and Forever You. Each one serves a different role, but both are built around the belief that technology can make human connection stronger and more lasting.

Winnie: The App For Meaningful Conversations

Winnie was created to solve a problem almost every family faces. People want to share stories, but they often do not know where to start. Some conversations feel awkward to initiate. Some memories only surface when someone asks the right question. Winnie removes that pressure by giving families gentle guidance.

What it does

• It offers thoughtful prompts that help people ask deeper, more meaningful questions

• It helps capture memories with ease rather than making storytelling feel like a chore

• It encourages families to talk more intentionally, whether across a table or across continents

Why it matters

Most people only share fragments of their lives because no one ever asks the questions that unlock the full story. Winnie gives families those questions. It creates a space where storytelling feels natural instead of forced. Over time, these conversations become a living archive of memories, values, and life lessons that would otherwise be lost.

Winnie is not just a tool. It is a nudge toward more intentional relationships.

Forever You: Digital Avatars Based on Real Memories

While Winnie helps families capture their stories, Forever You focuses on preserving their presence. Forever You is a conversational avatar built from real recordings of a person. It does not generate synthetic histories or fictional versions of someone. Instead, it recreates a person’s voice, style, and personality based on memories they actually shared.

What it is

• A digital avatar created using real videos, audio messages, and recordings

• A technology that reflects a person’s true tone, mannerisms, and expressions

• Designed to help future generations hear and connect with someone they may have never met

Key insight

Forever You is not intended to take the place of a loved one.

It is a bridge.

A way to preserve a voice, a story, a personality.

A way to keep a sense of presence alive long after time has created distance.

It is memory made accessible, intimate, and interactive.

To hear the emotional story of how Jeremy created a Forever You version of his mother, and what that experience meant for him and his family, you can listen to the full podcast episode here.

Why Memory Preservation Matters for Social Health

When people talk about well being, they often focus on physical health and mental health. Yet there is a third dimension that shapes how we move through the world. It is called social health. Social health is the strength we gain from connection, belonging, and the sense that we are part of a story larger than ourselves.

Knowing your family history plays a powerful role in that. When people understand where they come from, they often feel more grounded and resilient. They gain a stronger sense of identity. They carry a clearer picture of the values, struggles, and victories that have shaped their family over time.

A memory shared by a parent becomes more than a story. It becomes a roadmap. A source of perspective. A quiet reminder that you belong to something that did not start with you and will not end with you.

Jeremy’s work is built on the belief that preserving stories strengthens this foundation. When families capture their experiences in their own voices, they create a heritage that supports emotional well being not just for one generation, but for the ones that follow.

Technology as a Support System for Real Human Bonding

A common fear about technology is that it weakens relationships. Jeremy approaches it differently. His tools are not designed to replace human connection. They are designed to support it.

Winnie does not speak for families. It encourages them to speak to each other. Forever You does not try to imitate a person’s life. It preserves what the person already shared so their memories do not vanish.

The goal is simple. Lower the barriers that stop people from having meaningful conversations. Remove the friction that keeps families from capturing the moments that matter. Give people more chances to express themselves, to listen to each other, and to carry their stories forward.

When used with intention, technology can create stronger bonds, not weaker ones. It can make storytelling easier. It can help families feel closer. It can protect the voices we love most.

Memory preservation is not just about the past. It is about building emotional strength for the future.

Conclusion

At its core, the greatest value of AI isn’t speed or automation. It’s the way it can help us stay connected to what matters most. When technology supports storytelling, strengthens relationships, and keeps our memories alive, it stops being a tool and becomes a bridge between generations.

Preserving family memories is one of the most meaningful things we can do, and today’s technology makes that easier, more intentional, and more human than ever. It helps us honor the past, nurture the present, and shape the stories that will guide the future.

To explore the full conversation the insights behind these tools and Jeremy’s vision for emotional technology listen to the episode. 

Can Autism Develop Later in Life?

Intro

Understanding the science

Why So Many Adults Are Just Realizing They Are Autistic

Major Signs of Autism That Adults Often Overlook

What Triggers Recognition Later in Life?

Is Late Diagnosis Helpful?

Common Myths About Autism in Adults

How Adults Can Explore Their Autistic Identity

Practical Support for Newly Identified Autistic Adults

Conclusion

Can Autism Develop Later in Life?

More adults are beginning to ask an important question: can autism show up later in life? The conversation is growing because many people reach adulthood before realizing that their lifelong patterns, strengths, and struggles might actually fit the autistic profile.

A lot of the confusion comes from the idea that a person can “develop” autism. In reality, autism does not suddenly appear in adulthood. What often happens is that someone finally has the language, awareness, or safe environment to recognize traits that were always there. Many adults also learn that they have been masking or hiding their autistic traits for years without knowing it.

This blog post will walk you through why autism can remain unseen during childhood, why it becomes more noticeable later in life, and how late diagnosis or self identification happens. The goal is to help you understand this experience in a clear and supportive way.

Understanding the science

Many adults who start exploring autism wonder if it is something that can develop over time. The short answer is no. Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition. This means it begins during early brain development, long before a person becomes aware of it. It does not suddenly show up in your twenties, thirties, or forties.

What does happen very often is something different. People experience late recognition, late diagnosis, or late unmasking. In other words, the autism was always there, but it went unnoticed for many reasons.

Why it feels like it appears later

For many people, childhood signs were either subtle, misunderstood, or completely missed. Maybe they were seen as shy, gifted, sensitive, stubborn, introverted, or quirky. These labels can easily cover up autistic traits.

Some people develop strong masking skills without knowing it. Masking means copying social behaviors, studying people, forcing eye contact, or adjusting yourself constantly so you fit in. When masking becomes a habit, it can hide autism for years.

Autism may also feel more obvious later in life because adulthood comes with new challenges. Stress, burnout, major life transitions, or losing a predictable routine can make long standing difficulties more noticeable. When the structure that helped you cope falls away, the traits that were hiding in the background can suddenly become clearer.

This is why many adults feel like autism just appeared out of nowhere. The truth is that it was always part of who they are. They just did not have the words or understanding to recognize it until now.

If this section feels familiar, Sonia’s book offers comforting guidance. She breaks down self awareness in a way that helps you understand your patterns and emotions with clarity, especially if you are exploring neurodiversity for the first time.

Why So Many Adults Are Just Realizing They Are Autistic

A. Generational gaps in diagnosis

A lot of adults grew up in a time when autism was understood in a very narrow way. The focus was usually on young boys who showed very obvious traits. This meant many girls, quiet children, gifted kids, or anyone who did not match the stereotype were often overlooked. Their struggles were seen as personality quirks, moodiness, or simply being different. Because of this, countless autistic adults never received support or even an explanation for why life felt harder for them.

B. Social expectations and conditioning

Many adults were also raised with strong expectations to behave, blend in, and not cause problems. They learned to be polite, pleasant, adaptable, and quiet. Over time, this conditioning created automatic masking habits. Masking can help someone fit socially, but it also hides natural autistic traits. The effort it takes can be incredibly draining, and many people only begin to understand this later in life when burnout becomes impossible to ignore.

C. New awareness and online communities

In the last several years, online spaces have changed everything. Autistic creators, late diagnosed adults, educators, and advocates have started sharing their experiences openly. Their stories often match what many undiagnosed adults have felt their entire lives. Seeing this reflected back creates a moment of recognition that many people describe as life changing. It gives them language, validation, and the courage to look deeper.

If you are beginning to see yourself in these patterns, Sonia’s book can help you understand your emotional world with more clarity. She guides readers through self awareness and inner reflection in a gentle, relatable way that supports anyone exploring who they truly are.

Major Signs of Autism That Adults Often Overlook

Many adults go through life sensing that something feels different but never connect those feelings to autism. This happens because autistic traits often show up in quiet, subtle ways. They can be misunderstood or explained away as personality quirks. Below are some of the signs that many adults look back on and finally recognize.

A. Sensory differences

A lot of autistic adults notice that they react more strongly to certain sounds, textures, lights, or smells. This might mean feeling irritated by buzzing lights, tags on clothing, loud conversations, or strong scents. Sensory overload can make everyday environments feel stressful or draining. Many people also prefer predictable spaces where they can control noise, lighting, and movement.

B. Social and communication patterns

Some adults have always found small talk confusing or tiring. They may miss social cues, misunderstand tones, or take things very literally. They often feel like they are not quite in rhythm with the people around them. This can lead to feeling out of place even in friendly or familiar settings.

C. Emotional regulation

Autistic adults often look back and realize they struggled with emotions in ways they could not name. When things become too overwhelming, they may shut down, retreat, or suddenly lose the ability to communicate clearly. Others may feel emotions very deeply but find it hard to express what they need. These patterns can go unnoticed for years because many people assume they are just “too sensitive.”

D. Thinking and processing styles

Many autistic adults relate strongly to deep focus. When something interests them, they can stay with it for hours with zero effort. They often prefer routines because they bring comfort and clarity. On the other hand, multitasking or dealing with sudden changes can feel stressful or confusing. These traits are often seen as personality rather than part of a neurotype.

E. Internal experiences

Perhaps the most common overlooked sign is the quiet feeling of being different without knowing why. Many adults say they spent years trying to fit in or act “normal.” Masking becomes second nature and leads to chronic exhaustion. It explains why so many people reach adulthood before finally recognizing themselves in the autistic community.

These signs do not look the same in everyone, but they show up often enough to help adults start connecting the dots.

What Triggers Recognition Later in Life?

Many adults go through years or even decades without realizing they are autistic. Then something happens that brings everything into focus. These moments do not create autism. They simply make long standing traits easier to see.

A. Burnout

One of the biggest triggers for late recognition is autistic burnout. This type of burnout is different from ordinary stress. It builds up slowly from years of masking, pushing yourself, and trying to meet expectations that were never designed for your brain. When burnout hits, the strategies that used to help you blend in stop working. Social skills feel harder. Sensory issues feel stronger. Your energy drops, and masking becomes impossible to maintain. This sudden shift often makes autistic traits stand out in a way they never did before.

B. Major life changes

Big life transitions can also reveal traits that were easy to hide in the past. A new job with unpredictable demands, becoming a parent, dealing with health issues, or going through a relationship change can stretch your coping abilities. When routine breaks or pressure increases, old struggles that were once manageable come to the surface. This is often when people start to realize that their challenges have a deeper explanation.

C. Parenting an autistic child

Another common turning point is raising a child who has autism. Many adults begin researching signs, seeking evaluations, and learning about neurodiversity to support their child. In that process, they start to notice similarities with their own experiences. They see themselves in their child’s traits, sensitivities, or emotional patterns. This recognition is often both surprising and deeply validating.

If you are going through burnout, transitions, or a season of self discovery, Sonia’s book can be a grounding companion. It offers emotional insight and gentle reflection tools that help you understand yourself during times when everything feels clearer, louder, or heavier than before.

Is Late Diagnosis Helpful?

Many adults wonder if getting a diagnosis later in life actually makes a difference. The truth is that a late diagnosis can bring clarity, connection, and emotional healing, even after years of confusion.

Benefits of diagnosis

A late diagnosis often gives people a deeper sense of self understanding. It helps them connect past experiences, struggles, and patterns in a way that finally makes sense. Instead of feeling broken or difficult, many people start to see themselves with more compassion.

A diagnosis can also open doors to support. This might include accommodations at work, therapy with someone who understands autism, or access to local or online communities.

Another important benefit is the reduction of shame. Many adults spent years thinking their challenges were personal failures. A diagnosis helps people see that their brains simply work differently. This shift alone can transform how they speak to themselves.

It also improves communication in relationships. It becomes easier to explain needs, set boundaries, and build healthier connections.

Emotional reactions

The emotional side of a late diagnosis is complex. Many people feel relief because they finally have an explanation for things that never made sense. There is also grief, especially when they realize how much support they missed growing up. It is common to think about the ways life might have been easier with earlier understanding. Alongside these feelings is a deep sense of validation. For the first time, people feel seen and understood.

Self diagnosis versus formal diagnosis

Many adults start with self diagnosis. This is valid and often reflects real lived experience. Self diagnosis is also sometimes the only option because official assessments can be expensive, hard to access, or limited by long waiting lists.

A professional evaluation can be helpful when someone needs documentation for school, work, or mental health support. It can also be useful when there is doubt or when other conditions may overlap.

Both paths deserve respect. What matters most is understanding yourself in a way that brings clarity, peace, and support.

Common Myths About Autism in Adults

Many adults hesitate to explore autism because of the myths they have heard throughout their lives. These misunderstandings can hold people back from seeking clarity or trusting their own experiences. Below are some of the most common myths and the truth behind them.

Myth: “You cannot have autism if no one noticed earlier.”

The truth is that many autistic adults grew up in environments where the signs were misunderstood or ignored. Teachers, parents, and even doctors often did not have the knowledge we have today. Many traits were mistaken for personality differences or emotional struggles. Late recognition does not mean autism was not there. It simply means it was not identified.

Myth: “You are too social or articulate to be autistic.”

Autism does not look the same in everyone. Some autistic adults are talkative, friendly, or skilled at conversation. They may have learned how to socialize through observation, practice, or masking. Being articulate also does not erase the challenges someone may face with communication, sensory overload, or emotional regulation. Autism is a spectrum with a wide range of experiences.

Myth: “Only children have autism.”

Autistic children grow up to become autistic adults. Autism is lifelong and does not disappear with age. Many people were simply raised during a time when the signs were overlooked. The challenges and traits remain, even if a person has learned to adapt.

Myth: “Masking means you are fine.”

Masking can help someone appear calm, social, or confident, but it often comes at a high emotional and physical cost. It can lead to exhaustion, burnout, anxiety, and a loss of identity. Being able to mask does not mean someone is not struggling. It usually means they have been working very hard to hide it.

Understanding these myths helps open the door to more compassion and self acceptance. It also makes space for adults to explore their experiences without guilt or doubt.

How Adults Can Explore Their Autistic Identity

Discovering you might be autistic as an adult can feel both exciting and overwhelming. It is a journey that involves curiosity, honesty, and gentle self reflection. Here are some supportive ways to explore this part of yourself.

A. Self reflection questions

A helpful first step is asking yourself questions that make you look deeper into your experiences. For example:

How do I handle social situations?

What drains me the most?

What brings me comfort?

Have I spent most of my life feeling different?

These questions can open the door to patterns you may not have noticed before.

B. Traits checklists

Many adults find clarity by going through autism trait checklists created with adults in mind. These lists highlight common experiences related to sensory needs, communication, routines, and emotional patterns. They are not a diagnosis, but they can help you understand whether your experiences align with autistic traits.

C. Talking to therapists familiar with autism

If you want deeper insight, talking to a therapist who understands autism in adults can be incredibly helpful. A supportive professional can help you explore your history without judgment. They can also help you understand the difference between autism, trauma responses, anxiety, and other experiences that sometimes overlap.

D. Learning through autistic voices and communities

One of the most powerful ways to understand autism is by learning directly from autistic adults. Their stories, perspectives, and explanations often resonate in a way that textbooks never can. Online communities, videos, blogs, and support groups can help you feel seen and understood. Many people say these spaces gave them their first sense of belonging.

If you are exploring your identity and trying to understand yourself more deeply, Sonia’s book helps you look inward with clarity and honesty, and it offers gentle guidance for anyone going through self discovery or a late understanding of neurodiversity.

Practical Support for Newly Identified Autistic Adults

Realizing you might be autistic is only the beginning. The next step is learning how to support yourself in a way that feels gentle, practical, and sustainable. Here are some helpful areas to focus on as you begin this part of your journey.

Understanding sensory needs

A big part of feeling grounded is understanding what your senses need. Pay attention to what overwhelms you and what helps you feel calm. This might include using noise cancelling headphones, choosing softer clothing, adjusting lighting, or creating quiet spaces. Honoring your sensory needs is not being picky. It is caring for your nervous system.

Setting boundaries

Learning to set boundaries is another important step. Many autistic adults spent years trying to please others or fit expectations that caused stress. Boundaries help protect your energy and create healthier relationships. This can look like saying no when something feels too demanding, asking for clear communication, or limiting social time when you need rest.

Creating sustainable routines

Routines bring comfort and stability. Creating a daily flow that supports your energy can make life feel more manageable. This might include planning quiet time, scheduling breaks, organizing tasks visually, or building habits that reduce decision making. A steady routine can help you feel more grounded and less overwhelmed.

Addressing burnout

If burnout is part of your story, give yourself permission to slow down. Burnout is not laziness. It is a sign that your mind and body need recovery. Rest, reduced pressure, therapy, and sensory friendly environments can help you rebuild your energy. Many adults discover that understanding their autistic needs is the first step toward healing burnout.

Finding community support

Community makes a huge difference. Connecting with other autistic adults can bring understanding and validation that you may not have experienced before. Online groups, local meetups, and autistic creators can offer insights and companionship. Being in a space where you feel seen and understood can be deeply healing.

These practical steps support a more compassionate and sustainable way of living as you learn more about yourself and what you need.

Conclusion

Autism does not suddenly develop later in life. What many adults experience is recognition, unmasking, and a deeper understanding of themselves. For years, traits may have been hidden or misunderstood, and adulthood often provides the clarity to see them clearly.

Exploring this part of yourself takes patience, compassion, and curiosity. It is normal to have a mix of emotions, from relief to grief, as you process your experiences. The most important thing is to honor your journey and give yourself permission to learn at your own pace.

Seek out resources, support, and stories that make you feel seen. Whether it is supportive books, online communities, therapists familiar with adult autism, or personal reflection, these tools can help you navigate self-discovery with confidence and care. This is your opportunity to understand yourself more fully and to embrace who you have always been.

Rethinking Bipolar Disorder

Table of Contents

Intro

The Problem With the Traditional Narrative

Sean Blackwell’s Transformational Experience

A New Lens: Psychospiritual Crisis Instead of Disorder

An Integrative Healing Model

Important Caveats

Why This Perspective Matters Today

Conclusion

Rethinking Bipolar Disorder

For years, many people have been taught that bipolar disorder is simply a chemical imbalance in the brain. This explanation feels straightforward, but it often leaves out the emotional, spiritual, and human layers of what people actually experience.

This is where Sean Blackwell’s perspective becomes important. Sean has spent years studying bipolar experiences, and his ideas invite us to look beyond the medical definition and consider what might be happening on a deeper level. His work suggests that some bipolar episodes may involve emotional breakthroughs, unresolved trauma, or spiritual shifts that deserve more attention than they usually get.

This blog explores his approach and offers a more human and integrative way to think about bipolar disorder. The goal is not to dismiss medical care but to widen the conversation and make room for the meaning, healing, and personal transformation that many people describe.

The Problem With the Traditional Narrative

A. The limits of the “chemical imbalance” explanation

Most people have heard the idea that bipolar disorder happens because chemicals in the brain are out of balance. This explanation is simple, and it can feel comforting because it gives a clear answer. The problem is that many people eventually discover that this story does not fully match their lived experience.

Some people take medication for years and still feel stuck, confused, or disconnected from themselves. Others feel that their episodes carry emotional themes or come during moments of deep stress, grief, or transition. These experiences suggest that something more complex is going on. The chemical imbalance story can help with symptom management, but it does not always help someone understand why these episodes happen in the first place or how to heal the emotional layers underneath.

This creates a gap. Medication can calm symptoms, but many people still search for meaning, clarity, and lasting healing. They want to understand the roots of their experiences, not only how to manage them.

B. The danger of reducing people to a diagnosis

When the conversation centers only on diagnosis and brain chemistry, it can unintentionally reduce a whole person to a single label. This often leaves out important parts of their story. Many people with bipolar diagnoses carry histories of trauma, emotional neglect, anxiety, or life events that shaped how their mind and body respond to stress. When these layers are ignored, people can feel misunderstood or invalidated.

It becomes easy for society, and even loved ones, to see only the diagnosis and overlook the person behind it. Emotional pain, personal growth, spiritual questioning, and past experiences can all get pushed aside, even though they play a major role in mental well-being.

This is why a more holistic lens is important. People deserve to be seen as whole human beings. Their biology matters, but so do their feelings, memories, relationships, beliefs, and inner world. A fuller understanding creates space for compassion, self-awareness, and more meaningful healing.

Sean Blackwell’s Transformational Experience

A. His 1996 awakening experience

In 1996, Sean Blackwell went through an experience that looked very much like a mental health crisis from the outside. It began during an intense self-help and meditation workshop. As the practices went deeper, he started feeling powerful emotional waves rising through his body. His senses became sharper, his thoughts sped up, and he entered a state that many would describe as psychosis.

He felt disconnected from ordinary reality and deeply connected to something larger than himself. Colors felt brighter. Insights came rapidly. Emotions poured out in ways he had never experienced. It was overwhelming, frightening, and confusing, yet at the same time he could sense that something meaningful was happening. It did not feel like a random breakdown. It felt like a hidden part of his inner life was finally surfacing.

B. Why this moment changed everything

What happened next shaped the rest of Sean’s life. Instead of spiraling into a long-term psychiatric cycle, he gradually came out of the experience with a sense of clarity, emotional release, and inner shift. He describes the episode not only as a crisis but also as a turning point. Something inside him felt reorganized. He understood himself in a deeper way. He felt more emotionally open and spiritually grounded.

Most importantly, he did not go through repeated hospitalizations, and he did not become dependent on long-term medication. The intense episode became the beginning of his healing journey, not the start of a lifelong struggle. This outcome pushed him to question the traditional view of bipolar disorder. It led him to explore the idea that some crises may carry transformative potential, especially when emotional or spiritual layers are involved.

This moment changed everything because it opened a door. It showed him that mental health episodes can hold meaning, and that healing can sometimes take forms that do not fit neatly within the medical model.

A New Lens: Psychospiritual Crisis Instead of Disorder

A. The “breakdown vs. breakthrough” idea

Sean Blackwell introduces a different way of looking at intense mental health episodes. Instead of seeing them only as breakdowns, he suggests that some people may be going through a breakthrough. In this view, a crisis is not just a malfunction. It can be a process where the mind and body are trying to reorganize themselves at a deeper level.

During these episodes, painful memories, old trauma, suppressed emotions, and inner conflicts may rise to the surface. The intensity can feel chaotic, but it may also reflect the body’s attempt to release what has been held inside for years. Some people describe their episodes as moments when buried truth comes up all at once, forcing them to face parts of themselves they have avoided or forgotten.

This perspective does not romanticize suffering. Instead, it acknowledges that emotional and spiritual growth can sometimes happen in messy and overwhelming ways. It recognizes that crises may carry meaning, especially when they happen at times of major life stress or inner tension.

B. What this reframing does for people

Seeing a crisis through a psychospiritual lens can create space for hope. It tells people that their experience is not only a sign of something wrong. It may also be a sign of something trying to change or heal.

This reframing gives people a sense of agency. Instead of feeling powerless, they can explore what their mind and body are trying to communicate. They can look at their emotional history, their relationships, their spiritual questions, and their personal patterns with more compassion and curiosity.

It also helps reduce the shame and fear that often surround bipolar diagnoses. When people understand that their experience may have emotional or spiritual meaning, they feel less broken. They feel less alone. They feel more encouraged to seek healing approaches that address the whole person.

Ultimately, this perspective honors the complexity of human experience. It gives people permission to see their journey as meaningful, even when it is intense and difficult.

An Integrative Healing Model

A. Somatic and breath-based methods

A key part of Sean Blackwell’s work focuses on the body. He uses somatic practices and breath-based methods, particularly approaches similar to holotropic breathwork. These methods are designed to help people access deep emotional layers that talk therapy alone may not reach.

Breathwork can create a state where the body releases tension, memory, and emotion that have been stored for years. During these sessions, people often experience strong emotional releases. They may cry, shake, or express feelings that were never expressed when the original pain occurred. This kind of embodied work can bring hidden truths to the surface in a safe and supported way.

The reason these methods are powerful is that trauma is often held in the body, not just in the mind. Someone may intellectually understand their past, yet still feel the physical impact of old wounds. Breathwork helps bridge that gap by involving the body directly in the healing process.

B. Trauma as a root, not just symptoms

Sean’s model highlights trauma as a major underlying factor in many bipolar-type crises. Unresolved emotional energy can build for years. When life becomes stressful or when someone begins to explore their inner world, that energy can rise quickly. It may look like mania or psychosis on the outside, but the internal experience often has emotional themes, memories, or meaning attached to it.

For some people, the crisis is the body’s attempt to release what has been unprocessed. If the root cause is trauma, simply suppressing symptoms may bring temporary calm but not long-term healing. Addressing the trauma directly can reduce the intensity and frequency of future episodes and help someone feel more grounded and whole.

C. Combining modern psychiatry with deeper healing

Sean does not reject modern psychiatry. Instead, he encourages a balanced approach. Medication can be very helpful in stabilizing someone during acute episodes. It can create the space needed for self-care and emotional work. At the same time, medication alone may not uncover the deeper layers that created the crisis in the first place.

A fuller healing model brings together several forms of support. Psychotherapy helps people understand their patterns and emotions. Somatic work helps release trauma stored in the body. Peer support provides community and reduces isolation. Spiritual exploration helps people find meaning and connection in their experiences.

When these pieces come together, the healing process becomes more complete. People are not treated only as patients with a diagnosis. They are seen as whole human beings with a story, a history, and an inner life that deserves attention and care.

Important Caveats

A. Not everyone’s crisis is an awakening

It is important to understand that not every mental health crisis carries a spiritual or transformative meaning. People have different histories, different nervous systems, and different levels of support. What feels like an awakening for one person may feel dangerous or disorienting for someone else.

Safety needs to come first. Intense mental states can involve real risks, especially when someone becomes confused, overwhelmed, or unable to care for themselves. Recognizing individual differences helps us avoid making assumptions about what a person is going through. Each crisis needs to be approached with care, support, and respect for the person’s unique experience.

B. This is not a replacement for medical care

Sean Blackwell’s perspective does not remove the value of medical treatment. Many people benefit from medication, hospitalization, and professional intervention during acute episodes. These options can protect someone’s safety and provide stability when their inner world feels out of control.

Holistic approaches work best when there is a foundation of safety. A crisis should never be handled alone or without support. Medical professionals, therapists, and a safe environment all play essential roles during vulnerable moments. Integrative healing does not ignore these tools. It recognizes that immediate safety is the first priority before deeper emotional or spiritual work can begin.

C. Sean’s approach is experiential, not a universal formula

Sean’s model comes from lived experience, personal study, and years of working with individuals who resonate with his perspective. It is meaningful for many people, but it is not designed to fit everyone. Human beings are diverse, and so are their paths to healing.

Some people may find somatic or spiritual approaches incredibly helpful. Others may feel more supported by traditional psychiatric care. Many benefit from a combination of both. What matters most is that each person discovers a path that honors their story, their needs, and their safety.

This perspective invites exploration rather than telling anyone what they should believe or do. It reminds us that healing is personal and that each journey deserves compassion and choice.

Why This Perspective Matters Today

A. Mental health is evolving

The way we understand mental health is shifting. More people are recognizing that emotional well-being cannot be separated from the body or the spirit. There is a growing desire for approaches that see the whole person rather than only the symptoms they show. People want care that respects their inner world, their history, and their capacity for growth.

Trauma-informed healing is becoming more valued. Many individuals now understand that past experiences can shape how the mind and body respond to stress. Because of this, there is a stronger interest in integrative care. People want access to therapy, somatic work, and supportive practices that help them process and release what has been held inside for years.

This shift shows that mental health care is moving toward a more rounded and human-centered understanding. It reflects a deeper truth. Healing often requires more than one tool.

B. A more compassionate way to talk about bipolar

This perspective also matters because it changes the way we talk about bipolar disorder. Instead of focusing only on risk, dysfunction, or imbalance, it invites us to see the person behind the diagnosis. It encourages conversations that honor lived experience, emotional complexity, and personal meaning.

When we view bipolar episodes as potentially connected to trauma, emotional release, or inner transformation, the stigma begins to soften. People feel less judged and more understood. They are able to share their stories without feeling like something is wrong with who they are.

This approach brings humanity back into mental health conversations. It reminds us that people are not defined by their episodes or their labels. They are individuals with feelings, strengths, and personal wisdom. Compassion grows when we make room for different perspectives, and this allows healing to happen in a more supportive and dignified way.

Conclusion

At the heart of this conversation is a simple idea. Some mental health crises are not only signs of disorder. They can also be moments that reveal deeper emotional or spiritual layers that have been waiting to be understood. For certain people, these intense experiences may act as invitations to look within, release old pain, and begin a more honest relationship with themselves.

This perspective does not replace medical care. It simply reminds us that healing can be complex and deeply personal. It encourages readers to explore different viewpoints, listen to their own story, and pay attention to what their body and emotions may be trying to communicate.

As we continue to evolve in how we understand bipolar experiences, open-mindedness and compassion remain essential. Every person deserves support that sees them as a whole human being. When we honor both science and lived experience, we create space for healing that feels safer, kinder, and more complete.

Want the full story? Click to listen and explore the complete conversation with Sean Blackwell.

Can Autism Be Developed?

Table of Contents

Intro

Autism as a Neurodevelopmental Condition

Why Some People Think Autism Can Be Developed, and What They Might Be Confusing It With

What This Means: Autism Is Not “Developed” Later

Implications for Parents, Adults, and Supporters

Conclusion

Can Autism Be Developed?

A lot of people wonder if autism can develop later in life. Some believe it might appear because of environment, trauma, stress, or certain experiences. Others think a child can grow up without any signs and then suddenly become autistic. These ideas are common, but they also create confusion.

This question matters because when people misunderstand autism, it leads to problems. It can cause stigma, where autistic people are judged unfairly. It can lead to wrong diagnoses, which means people do not get the right support. It can also create fear for parents or false hope for those who think autism can simply appear or disappear.

In this post, we will look at what research actually says about the origin of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Studies show strong links to genetics, prenatal development, and early brain growth. We will explore whether science supports the idea of autism being something that develops later in life or if it is something that begins much earlier.

Autism as a Neurodevelopmental Condition

Research shows that autism does not begin in childhood, teenage years, or adulthood. It starts much earlier, during pregnancy. Studies have found signs linked to autism in the second and third trimesters, which means the brain begins developing differently before birth.

Other research has shown that many genes connected to autism are active during prenatal brain development. When these genes are disrupted, they can affect how brain cells grow, move, and connect with each other. This influences the overall wiring of the brain.

Brain scans support this too. Imaging studies of infants and toddlers show clear differences in brain structure and how different parts communicate with each other. These differences appear very early, long before the age when most children receive a diagnosis. This suggests that autism begins with early brain development, not from something that happens later in life.

Genetics and Early Influences Play a Big Role

Scientists have found many genetic variations linked to autism. These include changes in chromosomes and small mutations that happen on their own. It is rarely caused by a single gene. Instead, many genes work together, which is why autism looks different from person to person.

Epigenetics, which involves how genes are turned on or off, also plays a role. These changes can be influenced by the environment during pregnancy. Factors like maternal stress, inflammation, or certain prenatal exposures can increase the chances of autism. These influences act during prenatal or early development, not later in life.

All this research points to one thing. Autism is shaped by a combination of genetics and early developmental factors, not something that develops out of nowhere.

Early Signs Often Appear Before Age Two

Even though many people are diagnosed in school age or adulthood, the early signs usually show up much younger. Studies consistently report that differences in behavior, communication, or social interaction appear before 18 months of age.

This means the brain differences that lead to autism are already present, even if no one notices them yet. Some children mask symptoms, or adults may not understand what the signs mean. This can lead to late diagnosis, but it does not mean autism started late.

In simple terms, research strongly supports that autism does not suddenly develop in adolescence or adulthood. It begins early, even before a baby is born, and becomes clearer as the child grows.

Why Some People Think Autism Can Be Developed, and What They Might Be Confusing It With

Many people assume autism can suddenly appear later in life because some individuals do not get diagnosed until their teenage years or adulthood. This can make it seem like autism “developed” over time. But research shows something different. When someone is diagnosed late, it is usually because their traits were subtle, overlooked, misunderstood, or masked. They had autism from early on, but the signs were not recognized.

There are also environmental factors that can increase the chances of autism, such as prenatal stress, maternal health issues, or exposure to certain toxins. However, these factors affect brain development during pregnancy or early life. They do not create autism after the brain has already developed in a typical way. This misunderstanding often leads people to believe autism forms later, even though science does not support that idea.

Another common source of confusion comes from other conditions that may look similar to autism. For example, a brain injury, trauma, or certain mental health disorders can lead to behaviors like withdrawal, communication difficulties, or sensory changes. These behaviors may resemble autism, but they are not the same as Autism Spectrum Disorder. This confusion can lead some to believe autism can be “developed,” when in reality the person is experiencing something different.

To understand these differences with more clarity and compassion, Sonia Chand explores the human side of autism in her book. She offers real stories, insights, and reflections that help readers see beyond the stereotypes and understand what autism truly is. If you want a deeper look into the lived experiences behind these discussions, her book is a powerful and eye opening read.

What This Means: Autism Is Not “Developed” Later

When you look at the full body of scientific research, the conclusion is consistent. Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that begins early in life. Its roots are found in genetics, prenatal development, and the way the brain grows during pregnancy and early childhood.

Life experiences, environment, or stress can influence how strongly autistic traits show up. They can make symptoms more noticeable or more challenging. But there is no scientific evidence that autism can form in a brain that developed typically. In other words, autism does not suddenly appear later in life.

It is also important to remember that autism is very diverse. People have different strengths, challenges, and ways their traits show up. Some individuals have mild signs that are easy to miss in early childhood. Others learn to mask their traits to fit in, especially in social or work settings. When these individuals are finally diagnosed as teenagers or adults, it may feel like autism “just appeared.” But in reality, the signs were always there. They were simply not recognized or understood.

The consensus is clear. Autism does not develop out of nowhere. It starts early, even if the diagnosis comes much later.

Implications for Parents, Adults, and Supporters

For parents:

Understanding that autism begins in early development shows why early monitoring matters. Many early signs are subtle, so being aware of developmental milestones can make a major difference. Early intervention supports language, social skills, and emotional regulation. When parents know what to look for, they are better positioned to advocate for their child’s strengths and needs.

For adults and people who were diagnosed later in life:

A late diagnosis does not mean autism started late. It often means the signs were masked, misunderstood, or overlooked. Knowing that autism has always been part of who you are can bring a sense of clarity and self acceptance. It also guides you toward support that fits your real needs, rather than forcing yourself into patterns that do not work for you. Sonia talks about this in her work, especially in her book, which helps adults understand their neurodevelopmental journey with compassion.

For supporters, educators, and advocates:

Clear information helps reduce stigma. When people understand that autism is not caused by trauma, parenting style, or social experiences, it becomes easier to push back against harmful myths. Awareness rooted in science creates better environments for autistic children and adults. It also encourages communities to support individuality instead of blaming life events for a neurodevelopmental condition.

If you want to understand these ideas deeply and from a compassionate voice, encourage readers to explore Sonia’s book. It is an accessible guide for parents, professionals, and adults who want clarity without the noise and misinformation that often surrounds autism conversations.

Conclusion

The strongest scientific evidence shows that autism begins in early brain development, either before birth or in the first months of life. There is no reliable research that supports the idea that autism can simply appear in a fully typical brain later in life. What may look like a late beginning is often a late recognition.

Research is still growing. Autism is complex, and scientists continue to explore how genetics, epigenetics, and early environmental factors interact. There is still a lot to understand about why autism looks different from person to person and why some signs are easy to notice while others remain hidden for years. What we do know is this: empathy, understanding, and accurate information make life better for autistic children and adults. 

If you want to learn more in a grounded and compassionate way, check out Sonia Chand’s book. 

Will Autism Get Worse With Age?

Table of Contents

Intro

What We Mean by “Getting Worse”: Symptoms, Functioning, Quality of Life

Factors That Influence Change in Autism Across the Lifespan

What Worsening Often Looks Like and Why It Happens

What This Means for People on the Spectrum, Families, and Support Systems

Conclusion

Sources

Will Autism Get Worse With Age?

Many people ask whether Autism Spectrum Disorder, often called ASD, gets worse as a person grows older. It is a common concern for parents, caregivers, autistic adults, and anyone who wants to understand long term development. The question matters because understanding how autism changes over time helps with early diagnosis, long term planning, and setting up the right support at each stage of life.

Autism is a spectrum, which means every autistic person has a unique way of experiencing the world. Some children grow into adults who need less support than they did earlier. Others may find that life becomes more challenging as demands increase. There is no single pattern for how autism evolves with age. The experience varies widely, and this can make it difficult to know what to expect.

This blog post explores what research tells us about autism across the lifespan. We will look at what tends to change, what usually stays the same, and the factors that can influence whether life becomes easier or harder for an autistic person. We will also discuss what people often mean when they ask if autism gets worse, since this can refer to many different parts of a person’s life and wellbeing.

What We Mean by “Getting Worse”: Symptoms, Functioning, Quality of Life

Before we can answer the question of whether autism gets worse with age, we need to understand what “worse” really means. For some families, it means a child who becomes more withdrawn. For others, it means an adult who once managed well but is now struggling with daily responsibilities. The idea of “worsening” is not simple, because autism can show up in many different ways.

Imagine a boy when he is eight, his biggest challenges are social play and understanding jokes. He prefers routines, loves lining up his toy cars, and gets overwhelmed by noise. These are his core autism traits. Now imagine when he is twenty five. He may not line up cars anymore, but he might struggle to keep a job because sudden changes stress him. He might find social expectations confusing in ways that were not obvious when he was younger. Has his autism become worse, or has life simply become more demanding?

This is why understanding “worse” is so important. It can refer to many things, such as:

• stronger or more visible traits, like difficulty with social communication or increased repetitive behaviors

• a decline in adaptive skills, such as managing money, building relationships, or handling daily tasks

• new challenges with mental health, such as anxiety, depression, or stress
  
  
  

• physical health issues that appear with age and make coping harder

• losing skills that were once solid because support systems changed or life became more stressful

Changes can also be subtle. A teenager might seem more anxious during puberty. An adult might feel exhausted by social demands at work. An older autistic adult might find sensory sensitivities increasing again after years of improvement. These shifts are not always dramatic, but they still affect a person’s quality of life.

So the idea of autism “getting worse” is not about a single symptom or a fixed pattern. It is about how someone is coping with the world around them as that world changes. Sometimes the world becomes harder. Sometimes support decreases. Sometimes a person’s strengths grow. Understanding these layers helps us move away from fear and toward a more compassionate, informed view of autistic development across the lifespan.

Factors That Influence Change in Autism Across the Lifespan

Individual Differences

• Cognitive ability and IQ

Research consistently shows that individuals with average or higher cognitive functioning often experience more positive developmental trajectories. Studies found that autistic people without intellectual disability are more likely to show reductions in symptom severity over time. However, cognitive aging may affect them differently as they grow older, since higher functioning individuals often face greater social demands that can increase stress.

• Presence or absence of intellectual disability (ID)

Individuals with co-occurring ID tend to have more stable symptom patterns across the lifespan. Improvement may occur, but it often progresses more slowly.

Sex and Gender Differences

• Several longitudinal studies report that girls often show a reduction in symptom severity or slower increases during childhood compared to boys.

• Girls may also present differently because of social masking or coping strategies, which can influence how symptoms appear over time.

Environmental and Support Factors

• Early intervention: Early access to speech therapy, behavioral therapy, and structured support can lead to significant improvement in communication, adaptive skills, and social functioning.

• Family and community support: Children and adults who receive consistent support from parents, caregivers, teachers, and therapists tend to show better long-term outcomes.

• Socio-demographic factors: Factors like parental education, access to resources, and socioeconomic stability strongly influence progress. Studies show that consistent access to services predicts better developmental change.

Life Stage Transitions and External Pressures

Major life transitions often increase environmental demands. For many autistic individuals, these transitions can temporarily make symptoms or difficulties more noticeable.

Common pressure points include:

• Starting school

• Puberty and hormonal changes

• Moving from adolescence to adulthood

• Entering the workforce

• Navigating independence and relationships

These transitions can heighten anxiety or stress, which can give the impression of symptoms getting worse even when core autism traits remain stable.

Co-occurring Conditions and Physical or Mental Health

• Many autistic individuals experience anxiety, depression, ADHD, or sensory processing differences. These conditions can intensify at different life stages.

• Some studies suggest that even when core autism symptoms improve, physical health may decline with age, especially in areas like sleep, motor skills, and chronic health conditions.

• Stress sensitivity and burnout can also affect functioning in adulthood.

What Worsening Often Looks Like and Why It Happens

Increase in Certain Behaviors in Midlife or Older Age

Long term studies following autistic adults into midlife show that some individuals experience increases in repetitive behaviors, sensory distress, or difficulty managing daily tasks as they get older.

Research from the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders has noted that aging can bring added pressure on executive functioning. This can make routines, planning, or flexibility harder to maintain.

Decline in Adaptive Functioning

Adaptive functioning refers to independent living skills, communication in everyday life, problem solving, and social functioning.

Some studies, including work by Smith et al. and Taylor et al., found that autistic adults can experience a decline in adaptive functioning over time.

A major reason is the reduction in structured support. Many autistic individuals receive strong intervention during childhood, but after adolescence and early adulthood, support often becomes inconsistent. When support decreases but demands increase, functioning can drop.

New Challenges Connected to Aging

As autistic adults age, new health related issues can appear. These may include chronic fatigue, joint pain, sleep disturbances, sensory changes, or increased anxiety and depression. Aging can heighten existing sensory differences, making noise, light, or touch more overwhelming.

Reduced social networks and limited access to autism informed healthcare can also make older age more difficult to navigate.

Stress Created by Societal Expectations

As people grow older, life becomes more demanding. Work responsibilities, relationships, family roles, and social expectations become more complex.

For autistic adults, these pressures can cause stress that makes traits more noticeable. Executive functioning demands increase in adulthood, and if coping skills are limited or support is low, daily life becomes harder.

This does not mean autism itself is getting worse. Instead, the environment becomes more challenging.

What This Means for People on the Spectrum, Families, and Support Systems

When we look at the research as a whole, one message becomes clear. Autism is a lifelong condition, and every stage of life brings its own kind of growth, change, and challenge. This means support must grow and change too.

Tailored Support Across the Lifespan

Many families focus heavily on early intervention, and while that foundation is valuable, it is only the beginning. Adolescence brings new social pressures. Adulthood brings expectations about work, independence, and relationships. 

Older age brings health changes that may affect sensory processing or daily functioning. Each stage calls for its own type of guidance, therapy, and community support.

Recognizing Changing Needs

A child may need help with communication or play skills. An adult might need support with job coaching, independent living, or managing anxiety. An older adult may need help maintaining physical health or adjusting to changes in routine.

The point is not to assume that what worked at age 10 will still work at 30, 50, or 70. Needs shift, and support should shift with them.

Avoiding the Idea of a Fixed Level

It is easy for families or professionals to label someone as a certain level of autistic and expect that to stay the same forever. But research shows that people can grow in areas where they once struggled. They can also face setbacks when demands increase or when support drops. Instead of holding on to labels, it helps to see autism as something that evolves with life circumstances.

The Need for Continuous Mental Health and Community Support

Anxiety, depression, burnout, and isolation are common in autistic adults, especially when they feel misunderstood or unsupported. Regular mental health care, supportive friendships, understanding coworkers, and autism informed professionals can make a powerful difference. Community matters at every age.

Acceptance and Accommodation for Every Life Stage

As autistic individuals age, their traits might look different, but this does not mean they have failed or become less capable. It simply means life has changed. Acceptance from family, schools, employers, and society is essential. When people feel understood, they cope better. When environments are flexible, daily life becomes easier.

Compassion and accommodation are not acts of pity. They are acts of respect, allowing autistic individuals to live well and be themselves at every age.

Conclusion

There is no single path that autism follows throughout a person’s life. For many individuals, certain traits improve as they grow older. For others, things remain mostly stable. And for some, challenges may increase, often because of stress, major life transitions, or the natural changes that come with aging.

The idea that autism automatically gets worse with age is not supported by research. What we do see is that change is common. Sometimes the change is positive, sometimes it reflects new pressure points or unmet needs. What matters most is the quality of support and understanding that surrounds each person.

When we view autism as a lifelong and evolving condition, we open the door to better planning, better advocacy, and better care. Families, caregivers, and autistic individuals themselves can prepare for shifts at different stages of life and seek out the resources that make those stages easier to navigate.

In the end, the goal is simple. Embrace neurodiversity. Support each developmental journey with patience and respect. Stay attentive to changing needs and continue creating environments where autistic people can grow, adapt, and thrive at every age.

Sources

• Hong, J., Smith DaWalt, L., Lounds‑Taylor, J., Haider, A., & Mailick, M. (2023). Autism through midlife: trajectories of symptoms, behavioral functioning, and health. Journal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, 15(1), 36. https://doi.org/10.1186/s11689-023-09505-w PubMed

• Davis, J., et al. (2016). Trajectories of autism symptom severity change during early childhood. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. [PDF].

Jobs for People with Autism

Table of Contents

Intro

Employment Challenges for Autistic Adults

The Strengths of Autistic Individuals in the Workplace

Evidence Backed Job Roles That Suit Many Autistic Adults

Company Models That Support Neurodivergent Employment

Challenges and Considerations

Conclusion

Sources

Best Jobs for People with Autism

There is a big employment gap for autistic adults, and it is something we need to talk about. Research shows that many autistic people want to work, but only a small percentage actually find jobs. In some studies, fewer than half of autistic adults are in any form of paid employment. This makes life harder for them and also means the world is missing out on the unique strengths they bring.

The goal of this post is to highlight Jobs for people with autism and show evidence backed job paths that match the strengths of autistic individuals. We will also look at what research says about their work experience, what helps them succeed, and why some jobs fit better than others.

This topic matters because finding the right job can change everything. When a job matches a person’s strengths, it improves their confidence, job satisfaction, and long term success. For many autistic adults, the right job is not only possible. It is life changing.

So let us explore real, research supported jobs for a person with autism and how we can build workplaces where they can thrive.

Employment Challenges for Autistic Adults

When we talk about jobs for a person with autism, it is important to understand why many autistic adults still struggle to find and keep work. Research shows that a large number of autistic adults are unemployed or underemployed even when they have strong skills that many workplaces need.

One big reason is social expectations at work. Many jobs require a lot of social interaction, quick communication, or reading social cues. These demands can be stressful and make it harder for an autistic person to fully show their strengths.

Another challenge is the work environment. Many workplaces are not designed with neurodivergent people in mind. Bright lights, noise, unclear instructions, sudden changes, and fast paced teamwork can make the job harder. Research from PubMed studies shows that these environmental barriers affect job performance and overall well being.

Executive functioning is another area that plays a role. This includes things like planning, multitasking, time management, and switching between tasks. When these skills are challenged, it can affect how long someone stays in a job, even when they are capable and talented.

But the good news is that research also highlights what helps autistic adults succeed at work. Social support at work is a major factor. When managers and coworkers understand neurodiversity, communication becomes easier and the work feels more comfortable.

Another important factor is person environment fit. This happens when the job matches the person’s strengths, preferences, and natural way of working. When the role aligns with who they are, it becomes one of the good jobs for people with autism or even one of the best jobs for someone with autism.

Structured support also makes a big difference. Training programs, job coaches, autism aware employers, and clear guidelines help autistic workers feel confident and supported. This increases job satisfaction and makes it more likely for them to stay long term.

Understanding these challenges and supports helps us see why the right job match truly matters for autistic adults.

The Strengths of Autistic Individuals in the Workplace

When we talk about jobs for person with autism, good jobs for people with autism, or the best jobs for someone with autism, it is important to understand what they naturally do well. This helps create a better job fit and leads to higher performance and satisfaction.

Here are some of the most common strengths reported in studies:

Strong Focus and Attention to Detail

Many autistic individuals are able to concentrate deeply on tasks. They notice small details that others often miss. This can be very helpful in roles like data analysis, software testing, quality control, research, and editing.

Excellent Memory and Pattern Recognition

Research shows that autistic adults often have strong long term memory and the ability to see patterns quickly. This can be valuable in jobs that involve coding, numbers, analysis, design, and any task that needs quick recognition of errors or changes.

High Efficiency, Strong Dedication, and Honesty

Many autistic individuals work with a clear sense of fairness and commitment. They stay focused, avoid unnecessary distractions, and often produce high quality work. Employers value this because it leads to consistency and trust.

Unique Perspectives and Autism Specific Ways of Thinking

Autistic adults often think differently, and this difference is a strength. They can bring fresh ideas, new problem solving styles, and creative approaches to tasks. This can be useful in technology, design, research, engineering, and creative fields.

Why These Strengths Matter for Job Roles

When a job matches these natural strengths, the individual is more satisfied, more confident, and more likely to stay in the role long term. This is why understanding strengths is key when choosing good jobs for people with autism or deciding the best jobs for someone with autism.

Evidence Backed Job Roles That Suit Many Autistic Adults

Research shows that many autistic adults do well in jobs that match their strengths. These strengths often include focus, routine, pattern recognition, honest communication, and the ability to work deeply on tasks. Because of this, there are several careers for people with high functioning autism that stand out. 

Below are some of the most common evidence based roles, supported by studies and real world examples. These are also great jobs for autistic adults who want stable and meaningful work.

Technology and Software Engineering

There is strong evidence that autistic adults perform very well in tech roles. Jobs in software development, software testing, cybersecurity, and data analysis match common autistic strengths like attention to detail, logical thinking, and long periods of focus.

Research on inclusive pathways in tech shows that autistic individuals often excel when tasks are structured and logic based. Companies like Auticon are real examples of this. They hire autistic adults as IT consultants and software testers because these strengths often lead to high quality work.

These tech roles are some of the most recommended careers for people with high functioning autism because they offer predictable routines, problem solving tasks, and clear expectations.

Research and Laboratory Work

Jobs like lab technician, research assistant, or quality control technician are also great jobs for autistic adults. These roles involve structured tasks, clear procedures, and repetitive processes that many autistic individuals find comfortable and manageable.

Some research also notes that laboratory environments can be improved with simple adjustments, such as better lighting, quieter spaces, and clearer communication. When these supports are in place, autistic workers often thrive.

Library, Archival, and Information Management

Roles such as librarian, archivist, or data cataloger are a good fit for people who enjoy organizing information and working in calm spaces. These jobs match strengths like strong memory, pattern recognition, and a love for structured tasks.

Psych Central also highlights these roles as good jobs for autistic adults because library and archive environments are usually quiet, predictable, and supportive of focused work.

Creative and Digital Arts

Many autistic adults are very talented in creative fields. Jobs in animation, graphic design, illustration, video editing, and VFX blend creativity with repetition and pattern based work. These roles also allow people to work independently, which benefits many autistic individuals.

An example is Exceptional Minds, a vocational program and professional studio built specifically for autistic adults interested in digital arts. Graduates work in animation and visual effects for major studios.

These roles are good careers for people with high functioning autism who enjoy visual creativity and digital tools.

Animal Care Jobs

Working with animals is a strong fit for someone who prefers hands on tasks and limited social pressure. Jobs like animal care specialist, groomer, dog trainer assistant, or veterinary assistant provide routine based work that feels meaningful and predictable.

These roles suit autistic adults who enjoy working calmly and consistently, especially in environments that involve clear schedules and physical tasks.

Accounting and Skilled Trades

Accounting roles like bookkeeper or accounting technician work well because they involve rules, structure, and detail heavy tasks. Many autistic adults excel when the job requires accuracy and routine.

Skilled trades like mechanic, electrician, and carpenter can also be good jobs for autistic adults. These roles use visual spatial skills, problem solving, and hands on learning. With the right training support, many autistic adults build successful careers in these fields.

Company Models That Support Neurodivergent Employment

Some companies are already creating strong and effective systems that support autistic adults in the workplace. These companies understand neurodivergent strengths and design roles that help people succeed.

Specialisterne

Specialisterne is a global company that builds its business around the strengths of neurodivergent people. They hire autistic adults for roles in quality control, software testing, logistics, and other detail focused tasks. Their goal is to create an environment where autistic talent is not only included but fully valued.

Auticon

Auticon is an IT consulting firm that employs mostly autistic adults. They focus on roles like software testing, data analysis, and quality assurance. Auticon provides structured support, coaching, and a work culture that reduces social pressure. This model allows autistic employees to use their strengths in focus, logic, and precision.

Exceptional Minds

Exceptional Minds is a non profit animation studio and training academy for autistic adults. They train people in digital arts, animation, visual effects, and professional editing. Many graduates go on to work in major studios or build freelance careers in creative industries. This model proves that autistic adults can thrive in both technical and creative fields when given the right support.

Challenges and Considerations

When we talk about jobs for autistic adults, it is important to remember that autism is not the same for everyone. There is no one size fits all situation. What works perfectly for one person may not work for another at all. This is why finding the right job or work environment takes patience, support, and the right information.

Another challenge is the high rate of unemployment and underemployment among autistic adults. Many people with strong skills and great potential are still struggling to find meaningful work. Research keeps showing that this gap exists for many reasons, and most of them come from the environment and not the person.

A lot of workplaces are still not designed with neurodivergent people in mind. This includes noisy spaces, unclear

Conclusion

Many autistic individuals have strengths that can make them stand out in the workplace. In fact, when these strengths are matched with the right job roles, autistic adults can do very well and feel more satisfied at work

This is a good time for employers to look at their hiring practices and create workplaces that welcome neurodivergent talent. Small changes like clearer expectations, better communication, and flexible structures can make a big difference. Autistic adults are also encouraged to explore strength based careers, look for supportive environments, and use programs that help them connect with the right opportunities.

With the right support, autistic adults can not only find jobs but thrive in meaningful and fulfilling careers. Everyone deserves a workplace where they can grow, contribute, and feel valued.

If you want to learn more about how to support autistic people in real life settings, make sure you get Sonia’s book. It is a helpful guide for families, educators, and employers who want to understand autism better and create real change.

Sources

• Cope, R., & others. (2022). The Strengths and Abilities of Autistic People in the Workplace. PMC. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8992926/ PMC

• Sarker, O., Jamshaid, M., & Babar, M. A. (2025). Inclusive Employment Pathways: Career Success Factors for Autistic Individuals in Software Engineering. arXiv. https://arxiv.org/html/2508.09680v1 arXiv

• “10 Fulfilling Jobs for Autistic People.” (n.d.). PsychCentral. https://psychcentral.com/autism/jobs-for-autistic-people Psych Central
  
  

Insights on Addiction, Autism, and Mental Health

Table of Contents

Intro

Understanding Addiction from a Clinical Lens

Autism Spectrum and Mental Health

Motivation, Empowerment, and Mental Health Advocacy

Key Takeaways from the Conversation

Why This Episode Matters

Conclusion

Insights on Addiction, Autism, and Mental Health with Dr. Matthew Glowiak

When it comes to mental health, addiction, and understanding neurodivergent minds, we need voices that speak with both experience and compassion. Dr. Matthew Glowiak is one of those voices.

Dr. Glowiak is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has spent years working in addiction treatment, mental health counseling, and systemic therapy. He's seen firsthand how addiction affects individuals and families. He's worked in methadone clinics, private practices, and community settings. Through it all, he's maintained a clear mission: to encourage people, motivate change, and help them find their way forward.

In this blog post, we're going to explore some of the most important topics from my conversation with Dr. Glowiak. We'll talk about understanding addiction, recognizing mental health challenges, supporting neurodivergent individuals, and the power of motivation in therapy.

Want to hear Dr. Glowiak speak directly? Listen to the full episode of the podcast here.

Understanding Addiction from a Clinical Lens

Let's talk about addiction. It's one of those topics that carries a lot of misunderstanding, stigma, and fear. But when you listen to someone like Dr. Glowiak explain it, things start to make more sense.

Addiction as a Progressive Condition

One of the most important things Dr. Glowiak explained is that addiction is progressive. What does that mean? It means addiction doesn't stay the same. It develops over time. It gets worse if left untreated.

Think of it like this. Someone might start drinking socially on weekends. Over time, they might need a drink to relax after work. Then they might need a drink before they can fall asleep. Eventually, they might need a drink just to feel normal. That's progression.

The scary part is that this progression can sneak up on people. They don't wake up one day and decide to become addicted. It happens gradually, often without them realizing it.

That's why early recognition is so important. The sooner someone sees the pattern, the easier it is to intervene and get help.

The Problem of Normalization

Here's something that makes addiction even trickier. We tend to compare ourselves to the people around us. If everyone in your social circle drinks heavily, your heavy drinking might seem normal. If everyone you know uses substances to cope with stress, you might think it's just what people do.

Dr. Glowiak calls this normalization. It's when harmful behavior starts to look acceptable because everyone around you is doing it too.

The problem is that normalization delays treatment. People tell themselves, "I'm not as bad as him," or "At least I'm not doing what she's doing." They use comparison as a way to avoid facing their own issues.

But addiction doesn't care about comparisons. It doesn't matter if someone else drinks more than you. What matters is whether your drinking (or drug use) is causing problems in your life.

Recognizing When Alcohol or Substances Become a Problem

So how do you know when substance use has crossed the line? Dr. Glowiak shared some signs that people often ignore.

Are you drinking or using substances more often than you intended? Do you feel guilty about your use? Have you tried to cut back but couldn't? Are substances affecting your relationships, work, or health? Do you need more of the substance to get the same effect?

These are warning signs. But here's the thing. Most people deny addiction even when the signs are obvious. Why? Because admitting you have a problem is scary. It means your life has to change. It means asking for help. It means facing uncomfortable truths.

That's where therapists like Dr. Glowiak come in. They help clients gain clarity. They create a safe space where people can be honest about what's really going on.

Treatment is More Than Stopping the Substance

A lot of people think addiction treatment is just about getting someone to stop using. But Dr. Glowiak emphasized that real treatment goes much deeper.

Yes, stopping the substance is important. But that's just the beginning. Therapy is about motivation and skill building. It's about helping people understand why they started using in the first place. What were they trying to escape from? What pain were they trying to numb?

Emotional and psychological support is crucial. People need to learn new ways to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma. They need to build healthier habits and relationships.

Dr. Glowiak also talked about the importance of addressing root causes. Sometimes addiction is a symptom of something deeper. Maybe it's unresolved trauma. Maybe it's untreated mental illness. Maybe it's a lack of connection and purpose.

And let's not forget family involvement. Addiction doesn't happen in a vacuum. It affects families, and families can be part of the healing process. Dr. Glowiak uses systemic approaches that bring families into therapy when appropriate.

For a deeper understanding of these addiction insights, listen to Dr. Glowiak on the podcast.

Autism Spectrum and Mental Health

Now let's shift gears and talk about autism and mental health. This is an area that Dr. Glowiak has experience with, and it's a topic that doesn't get enough attention.

How Mental Health Challenges Present in Neurodivergent People

People on the autism spectrum can experience mental health challenges just like anyone else. But sometimes those challenges look different.

Anxiety is common among neurodivergent individuals. So is depression. Sensory overload can trigger intense stress and emotional reactions. Imagine trying to function in a world where lights are too bright, sounds are too loud, and textures feel overwhelming. That takes a toll.

Communication differences also matter. Some autistic people struggle to express their emotions in ways that others expect. They might not make eye contact or use typical body language. This can lead to misunderstandings, especially in therapy settings where communication is key.

Emotional regulation is another challenge. Managing big feelings can be harder for some neurodivergent people. This doesn't mean they're broken or deficient. It just means they might need different strategies and support.

Co-occurring Conditions

Dr. Glowiak also talked about co-occurring conditions. This means having more than one mental health challenge at the same time. For example, someone might be autistic and also struggle with anxiety or depression.

Interestingly, some neurodivergent people face higher risks of addiction. Why? There are a few reasons. Some use substances to cope with sensory overload or social anxiety. Others might struggle with executive functioning, which makes it harder to recognize patterns of problematic use.

The key is recognizing unique presentations rather than relying on stereotypes. Not every autistic person looks or acts the same. Not every neurodivergent person with addiction fits a certain mold. Good therapy requires seeing the individual, not just the label.

Tailoring Therapy to Neurodivergent Needs

This is where Dr. Glowiak's approach really shines. He understands that neurodivergent clients need tailored support.

Creating safe environments is essential. This might mean adjusting lighting, reducing noise, or allowing fidget tools during sessions. It means being flexible about eye contact and body language expectations.

Adjusting communication is also important. Some clients need direct, clear language. Others benefit from visual aids or written summaries. Some need more processing time before responding.

Dr. Glowiak avoids one-size-fits-all approaches. He collaborates with clients to figure out what works for them. He asks questions. He listens. He adapts.

He shared practical examples of how he works with neurodivergent clients. Sometimes it's about breaking tasks into smaller steps. Sometimes it's about validating experiences that others have dismissed. Sometimes it's about teaching self-advocacy skills so clients can communicate their needs more effectively.

The podcast episode gives real context. Listen to hear Dr. Glowiak share how he supports neurodivergent clients.

Motivation, Empowerment, and Mental Health Advocacy

One of the most refreshing things about Dr. Glowiak is his focus on motivation and empowerment. He doesn't just treat symptoms. He helps people believe in themselves again.

Why Encouragement Matters

Dr. Glowiak talked about how belief in clients builds resilience. When a therapist truly believes in someone's ability to change, it makes a difference. It gives people hope. It reminds them that they're not defined by their worst moments.

He also emphasized the power of small wins in recovery. Change doesn't happen overnight. It happens through tiny victories. Maybe someone made it through a weekend without drinking. Maybe they reached out for help instead of isolating. Maybe they practiced a coping skill even though it felt awkward.

Celebrating these small wins keeps people moving forward. It builds momentum.

Dr. Glowiak sees himself as a partner in transformation. He's not there to fix people. He's there to walk alongside them as they find their own path forward.

Dr. Glowiak's Approach to Motivation

So how does he actually motivate clients? He uses principles from motivational interviewing, which is a therapeutic approach that honors a person's autonomy.

Instead of telling people what to do, he helps them explore their own reasons for change. He asks questions like, "What would be different in your life if things changed?" or "What matters most to you right now?"

He empowers clients to choose their own path. This is huge. When people feel like they have control over their decisions, they're more likely to follow through.

Dr. Glowiak helps people build confidence by highlighting their strengths. He reminds them of times they've overcome challenges before. He helps them see that they're capable of more than they think.

Breaking Stigma in Mental Health

Another important part of Dr. Glowiak's work is breaking stigma. He believes in the importance of open conversations about addiction and mental health.

Too often, people suffer in silence because they're ashamed. They think asking for help means they're weak. They worry about being judged.

But Dr. Glowiak works to normalize therapy. He wants people to see mental health support the same way they see going to the doctor for a physical illness. There's no shame in getting help.

He encourages people to seek help early, before things get worse. The earlier you intervene, the better the outcomes.

If you want to hear Dr. Glowiak's motivational tone firsthand, click to listen to the episode.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation

Let me summarize some of the most important points from my conversation with Dr. Glowiak.

First, addiction thrives in silence but shrinks when addressed openly. The more we talk about it honestly, the more we can help people get treatment before things spiral.

Second, recovery requires both internal motivation and external support. People need to want to change, but they also need a support system that believes in them and provides practical help.

Third, neurodivergent individuals benefit from tailored therapeutic strategies. Cookie-cutter approaches don't work. Good therapy means adapting to each person's unique needs.

Fourth, encouragement and empowerment reduce shame. When therapists believe in their clients and celebrate small wins, it creates an environment where healing is possible.

Finally, therapy is not just treatment. It's a relationship that guides change. The connection between therapist and client matters. Trust matters. Feeling seen and heard matters.

These insights are just the beginning. Listen to the full conversation to get all the value.

Why This Episode Matters

This episode with Dr. Glowiak is helpful for so many people.

If you're struggling with addiction yourself, his words offer hope and practical guidance. He reminds you that change is possible and that you deserve support.

If you're a family member supporting a loved one, this episode gives you insight into what they're going through and how you can help effectively.

If you're a mental health professional, Dr. Glowiak's approach offers valuable perspectives on motivation, empowerment, and working with diverse clients.

For anyone who wants to better understand neurodivergent people, this conversation encourages empathy and challenges stereotypes.

And for all of us, it strengthens our understanding of holistic therapy approaches that treat the whole person, not just symptoms.

Listen now and share the episode with someone who needs it.

Conclusion

Mental health matters. Addiction deserves compassion, not judgment. Neurodivergent people need support that honors their unique experiences. And all of us benefit when we approach these topics with honesty, empathy, and a willingness to learn.

Dr. Matthew Glowiak brings all of these elements together in his work. His clinical expertise is matched by his genuine care for people. He sees potential where others might see problems. He offers encouragement where others might offer criticism. He creates pathways to change where others might see dead ends.

Take mental health seriously. Whether it's your own mental health or someone else's, it deserves attention and care. Support matters. Clarity matters. Compassion matters.

I hope this blog post has given you valuable insights. But honestly, reading about the conversation is nothing compared to hearing it directly. Dr. Glowiak's tone, his warmth, his wisdom - it all comes through when you listen to him speak.

Don't miss this powerful conversation. Click here to listen to the full podcast episode and gain insights directly from Dr. Matthew Glowiak.

How Caregivers of Neurodivergent Loved Ones Can Reclaim Their Well-Being

Table of Contents

Intro

The Missing Piece in Support Systems: Caring for the Caregiver

Meeting Caregivers Where They Are: The Power of Emotional Check-Ins

Naming Burnout: Recognizing the Warning Signs Before Crisis

What Sensory Self-Care Is and Why It Works

The Power of Community

Inclusi: A Caregiver Support Space Created by Eleonora

Humility in Care: What Professionals Need to Understand

Grief, Guilt, and Emotional Space: Allowing Caregivers to Feel

The Caregiver Balance Sheet: A Practical Tool for Rebuilding Stability

Conclusion

How Caregivers of Neurodivergent Loved Ones Can Reclaim Their Well-Being

There's an invisible weight that caregivers carry. It sits on their shoulders quietly, growing heavier with each passing day. For those caring for neurodivergent children or adults, this weight includes not just the practical tasks of daily life but also the emotional labor that nobody sees.

Eleonora Magri understands this weight intimately. Through her work with Inclusi, she's made it her mission to support caregivers who are often forgotten in the conversation about neurodivergent care. And here's the uncomfortable truth: burnout among caregivers is incredibly common, yet it's rarely talked about until someone reaches a breaking point.

This matters because when caregivers crash, entire families feel the impact. The good news? There are practical, accessible ways to prevent that crash and reclaim your well-being.

The Missing Piece in Support Systems: Caring for the Caregiver

Why Caregiver Support Is Often Neglected

When a family has a neurodivergent member, most of the attention naturally flows toward that person. Therapy appointments, educational plans, medical visits, behavioral strategies. The calendar fills up. The mental load grows. And somewhere in all of this, the caregiver's needs quietly slip into the background.

It's not intentional. Nobody wakes up thinking, "Let's ignore what the caregiver needs today." But it happens anyway. The system is designed to focus on the person receiving care, which makes sense on the surface. But this approach misses something crucial.

Eleonora's Argument: Caregiver Well-Being Must Come First

Eleonora flips the script entirely. She argues that caregiver well-being isn't just important. It's foundational. Think about it like the safety demonstration on an airplane. You put on your own oxygen mask first, then help others. The same principle applies here.

When caregivers are running on empty, physically exhausted, emotionally drained, and mentally overwhelmed, they can't provide the quality of care their loved ones need. It's not a moral failing. It's basic human biology. You cannot pour from an empty cup.

Here's what Eleonora makes clear: caregiver health directly impacts outcomes for the entire family. A caregiver who has space to breathe, rest, and recharge brings more patience, creativity, and resilience to their caregiving role. When we support caregivers, we support everyone in the family system.

Hear Eleonora explain why caregiver-centered support should be the foundation. Listen to the episode here.

Meeting Caregivers Where They Are: The Power of Emotional Check-Ins

This seems like such a simple question, but it's rarely asked with genuine intention. Professionals working with families often jump straight into problem-solving mode. What's the behavior we need to address? What strategies should we try? What's the next goal?

But Eleonora encourages a different starting point: pause and check in with the caregiver first. Not a surface-level "How are you?" that invites an automatic "I'm fine." A real check-in. How are you sleeping? When did you last do something just for yourself? What does your stress level feel like right now?

Caregivers also need to regularly take their own emotional temperature. It's easy to push through day after day without stopping to notice that you're running on fumes. Regular check-ins help you catch problems before they become crises.

No One-Size-Fits-All Approach

Here's something important that Eleonora emphasizes: your capacity changes. What you could handle last week might feel impossible today. You might have energy for a challenging therapy session on Tuesday but need to reschedule by Thursday. That's not weakness. That's being human.

Emotional readiness, mental capacity, and stress levels fluctuate. They're influenced by sleep, physical health, other life stressors, and a hundred other factors. When professionals and caregivers alike respect this natural variability, care plans become more realistic and sustainable. Compassion replaces rigid expectations.

Magri breaks down how to approach check-ins with compassion. Hear her explain it on the podcast.

Naming Burnout: Recognizing the Warning Signs Before Crisis

Burnout doesn't announce itself with a dramatic entrance. It creeps in quietly through small changes that are easy to dismiss. Eleonora points to several warning signs that caregivers commonly overlook:

Your sleep becomes disrupted. Maybe you can't fall asleep because your mind won't stop racing through tomorrow's to-do list. Or you wake up multiple times during the night. Or you sleep but wake up exhausted.

You stop taking care of your own health. Skipping meals becomes normal. You can't remember the last time you went to the doctor for yourself. That nagging pain? You'll deal with it later.

Hobbies disappear. Activities you used to enjoy feel like too much effort. Your social life shrinks to nothing because you don't have the energy to maintain friendships.

Everything feels overwhelming. Small tasks feel monumental. Decision fatigue is constant. Even choosing what to make for dinner feels exhausting.

And perhaps most tellingly, you feel guilty whenever you rest. Taking time for yourself feels selfish. You tell yourself your needs can wait.

Why Caregivers Downplay Their Own Exhaustion

There's a deep conditioning at play here. Many caregivers have internalized the belief that their needs are less urgent, less important, less worthy of attention. After all, their loved one has significant challenges. Who are they to complain about being tired?

This thinking is understandable but dangerous. It creates a hierarchy of suffering where caregivers consistently place themselves at the bottom. They're trained to prioritize others at all costs, even when that cost is their own health and well-being.

Why Naming Burnout Is the First Step to Preventing Collapse

When you can name something, you can address it. Burnout thrives in the shadows, in the space of "I'm just tired" or "Everyone feels this way." But when you look at the signs clearly and say, "This is burnout," you give yourself permission to take action.

Naming it isn't about being dramatic or seeking attention. It's about being honest. And that honesty creates the foundation for change. You can't solve a problem you won't acknowledge exists.

If you suspect you're burning out, this episode is a must-listen. Eleonora walks through the signs you should never ignore.

What Sensory Self-Care Is and Why It Works

Eleonora introduces a concept that many caregivers haven't considered: sensory self-care. This isn't about bubble baths and spa days, though those are nice if you have access to them. It's about understanding how your nervous system responds to sensory input and using that knowledge to help yourself regulate.

When you're constantly in fight-or-flight mode, responding to crisis after crisis, your nervous system gets stuck in a state of high alert. Sensory self-care helps bring you back down. It signals to your body that you're safe, that you can relax, that the emergency is over.

The beauty of this approach is that it doesn't require expensive products or hours of free time. It's about intentionally creating moments that soothe your nervous system.

Practical Sensory Strategies

What does this look like in practice? Eleonora offers several accessible options:

Sitting in a dim, quiet room for even just five minutes. Lowering visual and auditory stimulation gives your brain a break from processing constant input.

Listening to soft, calming sounds. This could be nature sounds, gentle music, or even white noise. Whatever your nervous system finds soothing.

Using weighted items. A heavy blanket, a weighted lap pad, or even just a heavy pillow across your legs can provide grounding pressure that many people find calming.

Gentle movement. Not intense exercise, but slow, mindful movement like stretching, walking, or swaying.

Breathing exercises. Deep, slow breathing directly impacts your nervous system, moving you from a stressed state to a calmer one.

Making Self-Care Accessible

Notice what all these strategies have in common. They're low-cost or free. They don't require special equipment. They can fit into tiny pockets of time. You don't need to overhaul your entire life or find an extra two hours in your day.

This accessibility matters tremendously. Self-care shouldn't be something that only people with money and time can access. It should be available to everyone, especially those who need it most.

Building Sustainable Self-Care Habits

Here's where many people get stuck with self-care. They think about it as adding entirely new tasks to an already overwhelming schedule. No wonder it feels impossible.

Eleonora teaches a different approach called habit stacking. Instead of creating new time in your day, you attach self-care practices to routines you're already doing. This makes consistency dramatically easier because you're not relying purely on motivation or remembering to do something new.

The existing habit acts as a trigger for the new one. Your brain already knows the pattern, so you're just adding one more link to the chain.

Consistency Over Duration

Another common misconception about self-care is that it needs to be lengthy to be effective. People think they need an hour-long routine or it doesn't count. This all-or-nothing thinking keeps people from doing anything at all.

Eleonora flips this narrative. Small, repeatable actions create long-term impact. Five minutes of breathwork every day does more for you than a two-hour spa visit once every six months. Consistency beats duration every time.

You don't need to clear your schedule. You need to find tiny moments and use them intentionally.

Examples of Simple Habit Stacks

What does this look like practically?

Take three deep breaths before you brush your teeth in the morning. You're already at the sink twice a day. Use that time.

Do a quick stretch routine before you get in the shower. You're already taking off your clothes. Add thirty seconds of movement.

Sit in your car for five minutes of silence after you arrive home but before you go inside. The transition is already happening. Make it intentional.

Notice how none of these require finding new time or buying anything. They simply make existing moments do double duty.

Eleonora explains how she teaches caregivers to build micro-habits. Listen to the interview here.

The Power of Community

Caregiving for a neurodivergent loved one can feel profoundly lonely. Even when surrounded by people, many caregivers feel isolated. Why? Because their daily reality is hard for others to understand.

Friends who don't have similar experiences often don't know what to say. Well-meaning relatives might offer advice that completely misses the mark. People stop inviting you to things because you've had to cancel so many times. Slowly, your world gets smaller.

The challenges you face daily are things most people can't relate to. They don't understand the complexity, the constant vigilance, the emotional load that comes with anticipating needs and preventing crises.

Creating Your Village

The old saying is true: it takes a village. But in modern life, villages don't just appear. You have to build them intentionally. Eleonora emphasizes that community isn't optional. It's essential for sustainable caregiving.

Your village might include peer support groups where other caregivers truly understand what you're going through. These connections provide both emotional support and practical advice from people who've been there.

Online communities can be lifesavers, especially for those with limited local resources or mobility challenges. The internet has created spaces where caregivers can connect at midnight when they can't sleep, ask questions at 3 AM, and find support without leaving home.

Local organizations focused on neurodivergent support often have resources for families and opportunities to connect with others in your area.

And don't underestimate the power of practical help. Trading childcare with another family, sharing meal prep duties, or coordinating grocery runs might sound simple, but these small acts of mutual support can significantly lighten the load.

Inclusi: A Caregiver Support Space Created by Eleonora

This is why Eleonora founded Inclusi. She saw a gap in support and decided to fill it. Inclusi creates space for caregivers to feel seen, heard, and supported. It's built on the understanding that caregiver well-being isn't a luxury or an afterthought. It's central to everything.

Through Inclusi, caregivers gain access to resources, community, and the reminder that they're not alone in this journey.

Discover how Inclusi helps caregivers feel supported. Eleonora talks about it deeply in the podcast episode.

Humility in Care: What Professionals Need to Understand

Eleonora has an important message for professionals working with families of neurodivergent individuals. No matter how much training you have or how many families you've worked with, you cannot assume you understand what any individual caregiver is experiencing internally.

Each family is different. Each caregiver brings their own history, trauma, strengths, and limitations. Approaching families with humility, with a genuine not-knowing stance, builds trust in ways that expertise alone cannot.

This means starting sessions by checking in with the caregiver's emotional state before diving into the work. It means asking questions instead of making assumptions. It means respecting when a caregiver says they're at capacity, even if you think the intervention is important.

Practitioners Must Care for Themselves Too

Here's another truth Eleonora emphasizes: burnt-out professionals cannot provide quality care. If you're working in this field and ignoring your own needs, pushing through exhaustion, and telling yourself you'll rest later, you're not just hurting yourself. You're limiting what you can offer the families you serve.

Healthy professionals bring more presence, creativity, and compassion to their work. They have the capacity to truly see the families in front of them rather than just going through the motions.

Self-care for professionals isn't selfish. It's a professional responsibility.

Grief, Guilt, and Emotional Space: Allowing Caregivers to Feel

Caregiving brings up complicated feelings that people don't always know how to process. Eleonora talks about the importance of acknowledging these emotions without judgment.

There's grief. Grief for the life you imagined before diagnosis. Grief for the experiences your child might not have. Grief for your own lost opportunities. This grief is real and valid, and it can coexist with deep love for your family member.

There's guilt. Guilt for feeling tired. Guilt for wanting time alone. Guilt for occasionally resenting your caregiving role. Guilt for not being enough, even when you're giving everything you have.

There's shame. Shame for needing help. Shame for struggling when you think you should be stronger. Shame for the complicated emotions you can't control.

Creating Space to Feel Without Judgment

What if you could feel all of these things without it meaning you're a bad caregiver? What if grief, guilt, and frustration were simply part of the human experience of caregiving, not evidence of failure?

Eleonora emphasizes that emotional honesty makes caregiving more sustainable. When you allow yourself to feel what you feel without piling judgment on top, you create space for those emotions to move through you rather than getting stuck and festering.

Feeling your emotions isn't the problem. Feeling them doesn't make you selfish or ungrateful. It makes you human.

The way Eleonora explains caregiver guilt is eye-opening. Listen to the podcast for her full breakdown.

The Caregiver Balance Sheet: A Practical Tool for Rebuilding Stability

Eleonora introduces a practical tool called the Caregiver Balance Sheet. It's beautifully simple in concept but powerful in impact.

The balance sheet helps you track the energy and time you spend on yourself versus what you spend on others. Most caregivers, when they first do this exercise, are shocked by the imbalance. They might see that 95% of their energy goes outward and only 5% comes back to them.

Making this visible is the first step toward changing it. You can't rebalance something if you don't know it's out of balance in the first place.

Why It Works

The balance sheet moves self-care from an abstract concept to something measurable and concrete. Instead of vaguely knowing you should take care of yourself, you can see exactly where you need to make changes.

It helps you reclaim a sense of control. When caregiving feels overwhelming and endless, having a tool that shows you concrete information about where your energy goes can feel empowering. You can make informed decisions about what to adjust.

How to Access It

The Caregiver Balance Sheet is available through Inclusi. It's designed to be simple and intuitive, something you can start using immediately without a learning curve.

Tools like this work because they meet caregivers where they are. They don't require you to figure everything out on your own or completely restructure your life before you can begin.

Conclusion

If you're a caregiver reading this, here's what I want you to know: you deserve rest. You deserve support. You deserve compassion, especially from yourself.

The path from burnout to balance isn't about making dramatic changes overnight. It's about small, sustainable steps. It's about acknowledging your needs instead of dismissing them. It's about building tiny habits that support your nervous system. It's about finding your people and letting them help carry the load.

Eleonora's work reminds us that caring for yourself isn't selfish and you're not alone in this. There are tools, communities, and people who understand. You don't have to figure it all out by yourself.

Ready to Hear the Full Conversation and Start Your Journey from Burnout to Balance?

Click here to listen to the podcast episode now.

Navigating Life as a Multiracial Autistic Adult

Table of Contents

Intro

The Intersection of Being Multiracial and Autistic

Growing Up Undiagnosed: Late Diagnosis and Self Discovery

Identity, Authenticity and the Power of Support

Challenges Multiracial Autistic Adults Face

Conclusion

Navigating Life as a Multiracial Autistic Adult

Autism shows up differently for everyone, but the experience becomes even more layered for people who are both multiracial and autistic. Their journey often includes questions about belonging, identity and how the world responds to them. Many navigate cultural expectations while also managing the social and sensory differences that come with being on the spectrum, which can make their story very different from what most people imagine when they think about autism.

This is why conversations like the one with Dr. Angel Durr matter so much. Dr. Durr is a researcher, educator and advocate whose work focuses on data equity and social systems, and she brings a powerful personal perspective as a multiracial autistic woman. Her insight is rare because she speaks from both lived experience and academic expertise. She understands how race, culture and neurodiversity overlap in ways that are often overlooked in traditional discussions about autism.

In this episode, she opens up about identity, late discovery and the journey of understanding herself more fully. She guides listeners through the challenges and strengths that come with holding more than one marginalized identity. Her story shines a light on what it truly means to navigate life at the intersection of race and neurodiversity, and why representation matters for everyone on the spectrum.

The Intersection of Being Multiracial and Autistic

Being multiracial often comes with its own set of questions and complexities. Many multiracial individuals grow up moving between cultures, traditions and expectations, sometimes feeling like they are balancing multiple identities at once. There can be moments of connection and pride, but also moments when they feel unsure of where they fit, or how others see them.

When you combine this experience with autism, the story becomes even more layered. A multiracial autistic person is not only navigating cultural differences, but also the neurological differences that shape how they communicate, process emotions and interact with the world. This can create a double sense of difference.

They may feel culturally different because they do not fully match any single racial group. At the same time, they may feel neurologically different because of the social and sensory traits that come with being on the spectrum. Moving through these two worlds often means learning different sets of rules, expectations and social cues. It can be exhausting, but it can also lead to a deep understanding of identity and resilience.

Many people in this position talk about the experience of not fitting neatly into one box, whether that box is racial identity or neurotypical behavior. Instead, they learn to create their own space and define who they are on their own terms.

The podcast dives deeper into how Dr. Durr navigated these dual identities growing up. Listen here to learn more.

Growing Up Undiagnosed: Late Diagnosis and Self Discovery

Dr. Angel Durr’s journey with autism did not begin with early intervention or a childhood diagnosis. Instead, she spent many years moving through school, relationships and work without knowing she was autistic. Like many women and people of color, her traits were overlooked, misunderstood or labeled as something else. This led her to grow up without a clear explanation for why certain things felt harder, more draining or more confusing than they seemed to be for everyone else.

For years, she became an expert at masking. Masking is the act of hiding or suppressing autistic traits in order to fit in. She learned to study people, copy their behavior and adjust her reactions so she would blend into social settings. Although masking helped her avoid judgment, it came with a heavy cost. It often left her exhausted and unsure of who she really was beneath the performance.

Social expectations also brought a lot of confusion. Dr. Durr talks about moments when she did not understand why people reacted the way they did, or why certain interactions felt awkward or overwhelming. Without a diagnosis, she often blamed herself or tried harder to force behaviors that did not feel natural.

On top of that, she dealt with sensory challenges without having the language to describe them. Bright lights, loud environments or unexpected changes could send her into distress, but she pushed through because she thought she simply had to manage it. Not knowing the root cause made everything feel more isolating.

Everything began to make sense once she received her diagnosis as an adult. It was a turning point that brought clarity, relief and a deeper level of self compassion. Instead of asking what was wrong with her, she started to understand how her brain worked. The diagnosis helped her reclaim parts of herself she had hidden away and allowed her to build a life that supported her needs rather than fighting against them.

Her story of self discovery is powerful. You can hear the full conversation on the podcast.

Identity, Authenticity and the Power of Support

As Dr. Angel Durr grew into adulthood, she began to embrace the full picture of who she was: both her racial identity and her autistic identity. Instead of choosing one over the other or hiding parts of herself to make others comfortable, she learned to stand in her truth. This shift took time, but it allowed her to connect more deeply with her own experiences and build a stronger sense of self.

Authenticity became a major part of her healing. When someone spends years masking or trying to fit into roles that do not reflect who they are, it takes a toll on their mental health. Dr. Durr explains that embracing her identity brought a sense of relief and belonging she had not felt before. It helped her form healthier relationships and surround herself with people who accepted her without conditions.

Her journey also showed her how important culturally aware professionals are. Many autistic individuals of color struggle to get accurate assessments because some providers do not understand how culture, race and neurodivergence can intersect. When professionals do not consider these layers, signs of autism can be missed or misread. Culturally informed support allows people to be seen more clearly and treated with respect.

Supportive environments also make a significant difference. This means workplaces, schools and communities that create space for sensory needs, communication differences and cultural identity. When people feel safe to be themselves, they are more likely to thrive.

Representation within autism narratives is another point she highlights. Many stories about autism focus on a narrow group, often leaving out women, people of color and multiracial individuals. This lack of representation can make people feel invisible or misunderstood. Dr. Durr’s story pushes back against that silence and reminds others that their experiences matter too.

Most importantly, she reinforces that support is not about fixing autistic traits. It is about helping people grow, succeed and live in alignment with who they are. Support should empower rather than erase differences.

Challenges Multiracial Autistic Adults Face

Multiracial autistic adults often navigate a unique set of challenges that are not widely discussed. Dr. Angel Durr highlights how these experiences can shape a person’s sense of identity, belonging and emotional wellbeing. Her story offers a clear window into what it feels like to live at the intersection of race and neurodiversity.

One major challenge is dealing with racial stereotypes while also managing communication differences associated with autism. For example, Dr. Durr shares that people sometimes misinterpreted her quietness or need for space as an attitude problem or a cultural trait, instead of recognizing these reactions as part of her neurodivergent experience. These incorrect assumptions added a layer of pressure, because she felt she had to avoid reinforcing any stereotypes about her racial background.

Another challenge is the lack of representation in autism research and public conversations. Many stories center on white males, which leaves women and people of color feeling as if their experiences do not fit the typical autism narrative. Dr. Durr explains that growing up, she almost never saw autistic individuals who looked like her, which made it harder to imagine that autism could be part of her story.

Dr. Durr also talks about how difficult it can be to access a culturally responsive diagnosis. Some professionals are not trained to understand how autism traits can appear differently across cultures. As a result, behaviors may be dismissed, misinterpreted or attributed to culture instead of neurodiversity. This was part of the reason her autism was missed for so long.

Masking adds another emotional strain. Multiracial autistic adults may feel they have to hide parts of themselves to avoid judgment about their race and also hide autistic traits to meet social expectations. Dr. Durr describes how this double masking left her exhausted and disconnected from her true self.

Finally, many multiracial autistic adults feel unseen or misunderstood within both communities. They may feel too autistic to fully fit into their racial groups, yet too culturally different to feel understood in neurodivergent spaces. Dr. Durr explains that she often felt like she was standing between worlds, not fully accepted by either.

Her experiences show why inclusive conversations about race and neurodiversity are so important. Her story opens the door for others who share these challenges to know they are not alone.

Conclusion

Sharing stories like Dr. Angel Durr’s is essential because they shine a light on experiences that are often overlooked. Her journey illustrates the complexities of navigating life as both multiracial and autistic, and it encourages others to embrace their full identities without compromise.

Her story reminds us that understanding oneself and accepting every part of who we are—culturally, racially and neurologically, can be a source of strength and empowerment. By embracing authenticity, individuals can find a sense of belonging and create spaces where they can truly thrive.

Celebrating neurodiversity across cultures not only benefits those directly affected but also enriches communities, schools and workplaces. It teaches us to value difference as a source of perspective, creativity and resilience.

To hear Dr. Angel Durr’s inspiring story firsthand, tune in to the full podcast episode here.

Breaking the Silence Around Hidden Trafficking Victims

Table of Contents

Intro

Victims We Don’t See

The Demand That Fuels Exploitation

When Survivors Are Treated as Criminals

Healing Through Advocacy and Awareness

What You Can Do

Conclusion

Breaking the Silence Around Hidden Trafficking Victims

Some battles are fought quietly — no weapons, no crowds, just a deep struggle to survive and be seen. For many survivors of human trafficking, the hardest fight begins after escape. It’s the battle to rebuild a life while carrying the weight of trauma, stigma, and scars that most people never notice.

Human trafficking doesn’t always look like the dramatic stories we see in movies. It often hides in plain sight — in the life of a runaway teen, a young man in foster care, or a woman mislabeled as a “criminal” instead of a victim. Many of these individuals go unnoticed because society doesn’t always recognize the signs of exploitation or understand how manipulation and control can trap someone without chains.

This post explores how listening, learning, and standing together can turn silence into healing and despair into hope. Let’s uncover what this silent battle looks like and how hope is giving survivors a new beginning.

Victims We Don’t See

When most people hear the term human trafficking, they picture kidnappings, locked rooms, and distant countries. But in reality, trafficking is far more complex and much closer to home. It isn’t always about force or abduction. More often, it happens through coercion, manipulation, and psychological control. Traffickers use trust, affection, fear, or financial dependence to trap their victims, creating invisible chains that are just as powerful as physical ones.

Victims can be anyone — young girls, boys, or adult men — yet society often fails to see them that way. In Silent Battle, Shared Hope, one guest makes a powerful observation: “Law enforcement doesn’t see boys and men as victims because we don’t recognize them as victims.” This misunderstanding keeps countless people hidden in plain sight, suffering without help or recognition.

The truth is, trafficking can wear many disguises. It can look like a runaway teen, a foster child struggling to survive, or a young adult stuck in an abusive relationship that seems impossible to leave. The lack of awareness around these realities gives traffickers more power. When victims are unseen, exploitation thrives.

If you want to hear firsthand how survivors describe these hidden forms of trafficking, listen to the podcast episode “Silent Battle, Shared Hope.” It reveals how silence and misunderstanding allow exploitation to continue — and why awareness is the first step toward change.

Trauma often keeps survivors silent. Many don’t even realize they were trafficked because manipulation blurred their sense of choice and control. Others stay quiet out of fear or shame, convinced that no one will believe them. This silence becomes another layer of bondage.

Recognizing these unseen victims means learning to look beyond stereotypes. It means asking hard questions, listening without judgment, and believing survivors when they speak. Only then can society begin to see the full picture of what trafficking truly looks like.

The Demand That Fuels Exploitation

Human trafficking exists for one main reason — demand. Without people willing to buy or exploit others, the system would collapse. Every transaction, every click, every purchase that devalues a person’s body helps sustain this dark market. Trafficking is not only a crime of desperation but also a business driven by those who see others as something to be used, not valued.

Behind this demand are systemic issues that make exploitation possible. Poverty, broken family structures, and lack of education make many people vulnerable to manipulation. At the same time, online platforms have created new spaces for recruitment and abuse, often with little oversight. In many cases, traffickers hide behind screens, and buyers feel untouchable. They believe they can act in secret without consequences. As the podcast points out, exploitation continues “protected by silence and fueled by money.”

This silence is powerful. Society often avoids discussing trafficking because it feels uncomfortable or distant. Yet the truth is, it thrives when we look away. It grows stronger when we fail to hold buyers accountable or when we dismiss victims as “choices” rather than coerced individuals.

If you want to understand how this demand affects real lives, listen to the episode “Silent Battle, Shared Hope.” The survivors’ stories make it impossible to ignore how everyday systems, ignorance, and indifference allow trafficking to persist.

It’s worth asking ourselves a hard question: what does it say about our world when some lives are treated as commodities? Recognizing that question is the beginning of change. When people see that every act of exploitation begins with demand, they begin to understand their power to stop it.

When Survivors Are Treated as Criminals

For many survivors of trafficking, escaping their trafficker is only the beginning of the fight. Long after they are free, they face another form of punishment — being treated like criminals for acts they were forced to commit while under coercion. These criminal records follow them everywhere, shaping how society sees them and limiting the opportunities available to rebuild their lives.

Imagine a mother who was trafficked as a teenager. Years later, she has turned her life around and wants to volunteer at her child’s school. But when the school runs a background check, she is denied because of old convictions tied to her trafficking experience. Her record still lists charges like theft or prostitution, crimes committed under someone else’s control. That one label, felon, blocks her from participating in her own child’s education.

Stories like hers are far too common. Survivors face endless barriers: they struggle to find jobs, secure housing, or even access healthcare. Many are re-traumatized by systems that were never designed to understand what they endured. Instead of receiving compassion, they are met with suspicion and stigma. This deepens their sense of isolation and can even push some back into dangerous situations.

That’s why trauma-informed care and record-clearing laws, known as vacatur laws, are vital. These laws recognize that survivors should not carry the weight of crimes committed during their exploitation. They allow victims to have certain convictions erased, giving them a real chance to start over.

True justice in trafficking doesn’t end with rescue. It continues through restoration and reintegration — helping survivors rebuild their dignity, stability, and voice.

To hear firsthand how these legal barriers impact real people and how advocates are working to change the system, listen to the podcast episode “Silent Battle, Shared Hope.” It’s a powerful reminder that freedom is more than escape, it’s the right to live without being defined by the past.

Healing Through Advocacy and Awareness

Amid the pain and injustice of trafficking, something powerful is happening, survivors are rising to lead the fight for change. Many are turning their experiences into purpose by mentoring others, shaping public policy, and educating communities about what trafficking really looks like. Their voices bring truth, courage, and direction to a cause that once silenced them.

Organizations like Shared Hope International are helping to amplify these voices. Through survivor-led advocacy, they’re showing that awareness is not just about knowing what trafficking is — it’s about using that knowledge to protect others. When communities understand the signs of exploitation and challenge the systems that enable it, they help reduce demand and build safety nets for vulnerable youth.

Awareness is powerful because it turns silence into action. As one message from the Silent Battle, Shared Hope podcast puts it, “Protected by silence, trafficking thrives — but when we share hope, it begins to crumble.” Each time a survivor tells their story, or a listener chooses to learn and speak up, the cycle of exploitation weakens a little more.

No one can fix everything, but everyone can do something. We can listen with compassion, support survivor-centered organizations, and share what we learn with others. Hope grows when it’s shared, and advocacy is the bridge that connects pain to purpose.

To hear the voices of survivors and discover how you can help end the silence, listen to the full episode of Silent Battle, Shared Hope. Their stories remind us that while trafficking may be built on darkness, healing and hope have the power to break through it.

What You Can Do

The fight against trafficking can feel overwhelming, but meaningful change often begins with small, intentional actions. Each person has the power to make a difference — to listen, to learn, and to act. Here are a few practical ways you can start:

• Look: Learn to recognize the signs of trafficking. Notice when someone seems fearful, withdrawn, or suddenly changes behavior or appearance. Trafficking often hides behind ordinary faces and situations.

• Listen: When survivors share their stories, believe them. Listening without judgment helps rebuild trust and restores dignity.

• Lobby: Support laws that protect survivors and clear records for crimes committed under coercion. Contact local leaders or join advocacy campaigns that push for trauma-informed policies.

• Lead: Talk about trafficking openly. Silence protects exploiters, while awareness empowers communities. By starting honest conversations, you help break the stigma that keeps victims hidden.

If you want to learn more or find ways to get involved, visit helpingheroesusa.org. The site offers resources, volunteer opportunities, and educational materials that show how every action counts.

Conclusion

Human trafficking remains a silent epidemic, hidden behind everyday lives and quiet suffering. Yet, even in that silence, hope is rising. Awareness and compassion have the power to break through the darkness that once allowed exploitation to thrive. Every time someone chooses to learn, listen, or speak out, another layer of silence begins to fall away.

The survivors who share their stories in *Silent Battle, Shared Hope* remind us what courage truly looks like. Their strength, resilience, and determination to rebuild their lives are proof that healing is possible. They are no longer defined by what was done to them, they are leading a movement that turns pain into purpose.

The fight against trafficking begins with seeing the unseen. It starts when we recognize that every story matters, every act of kindness counts, and every voice raised in truth helps another find freedom. When we share hope, silence loses its power.

To hear the powerful stories behind this movement and learn how you can help, listen to the full episode of Silent Battle, Shared Hope. Let their voices inspire you to be part of the change that ends trafficking and restores dignity to every survivor.

How Systematic Reading Instruction Transforms Dyslexia and Dysgraphia

Table of Contents

Intro

Understanding the Problem: Why So Many Kids Struggle to Read

The Science of Reading: What Systematic Instruction Really Means

Breaking Down the Building Blocks of Reading

The Power of Early and Targeted Assessment

Inside an Effective Reading Program

Working With Schools and IEPs

Key Takeaways for Parents and Educators

Conclusion

How Systematic Reading Instruction Transforms Dyslexia and Dysgraphia

Many children who struggle with reading or writing often carry the weight of thinking they are not smart enough. But the truth is, their struggles usually have nothing to do with intelligence. They simply have not been taught in the way their brains are wired to learn. This is especially true for children with dyslexia or dysgraphia, who need a more structured, step-by-step approach to master reading and spelling.

Daniela Feldhausen understands this deeply. After spending twenty-five years in corporate law, she made a bold decision to change careers and dedicate her life to helping struggling readers. Today, she is a reading specialist and the founder of Kids Up Reading Tutors, where she focuses on transforming how children learn to read and spell through research-based, systematic instruction.

In this post, we’ll explore what makes her approach so effective and how it helps children move from frustration to confidence. 

Understanding the Problem: Why So Many Kids Struggle to Read

For many parents, it can be confusing to watch a bright, curious child struggle to read or write. They might wonder why their child can talk endlessly about dinosaurs or build intricate Lego creations, yet feel lost when faced with a simple paragraph. The answer often lies in how reading is taught and how each brain processes language.

Dyslexia is one of the most common learning differences affecting reading. It is a neurological condition that makes it difficult for a person to connect letters with their corresponding sounds, blend those sounds into words, and recognize words automatically. Children with dyslexia often read slowly, skip words, or reverse letters like “b” and “d.” They might also have trouble spelling, even when they can remember what a word looks like. Dysgraphia, on the other hand, affects a child’s ability to write clearly and organize thoughts on paper. This can show up as poor handwriting, inconsistent spacing, or difficulty putting ideas into written form.

Studies estimate that between 10 and 20 percent of the population shows signs of dyslexia, while dysgraphia is somewhat less common but often overlaps with dyslexia. Despite how widespread these learning differences are, many children go years without proper support simply because of how reading is taught in schools.

One of the biggest misconceptions about reading is that it is a natural skill, like speaking. Children learn to talk by listening to others, so it is easy to assume that reading happens the same way—with enough exposure, they’ll eventually “pick it up.” But reading is not natural. Unlike speech, it does not come automatically to the human brain. It must be taught explicitly, step by step, because reading requires building connections between sounds, letters, and meaning.

Research shows that while some children (about 30 percent) learn to read with minimal instruction, around 40 percent of students need direct, structured teaching to become fluent readers. For those with dyslexia or dysgraphia, the need for this explicit approach is even greater. Traditional classroom settings often cannot provide the level of individualized attention or the systematic instruction these students require. Lessons may move too quickly, focus on memorization instead of sound patterns, or skip essential foundational skills.

As a result, many bright students are left feeling frustrated, anxious, or ashamed, even though the problem lies not within them but in the method of instruction. Understanding this is the first step toward changing how we teach and how we help every child unlock the ability to read with confidence.

The Science of Reading: What Systematic Instruction Really Means

When a child struggles to read, the solution isn’t more memorization or guessing words from pictures. What truly helps is systematic reading instruction—a structured, evidence-based method that teaches reading as a series of interconnected skills. This approach is explicit, sequenced, and cumulative. Each lesson builds upon the last, guiding children step by step toward fluency and comprehension.

At its core, systematic instruction focuses on four essential areas: phonological awareness, phonics, morphology, and fluency. Together, these form the foundation of what researchers call the Science of Reading. It’s not a trend or a teaching fad; it’s decades of research showing how the brain learns to read effectively.

Another key principle behind this approach is the Simple View of Reading, which explains that: Reading Comprehension = Decoding × Language Comprehension.

 In other words, a child needs both the ability to recognize and pronounce words (decoding) and the ability to understand what those words mean (language comprehension). When one of these components is weak, reading breaks down. Skilled teachers and tutors begin by identifying which area needs support so they can target instruction precisely where it’s needed.

If this part of reading science fascinates you, take a moment to listen to Daniela Feldhausen’s full podcast episode on “On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories.” She explains how this process works in real classrooms and why it has transformed the way she teaches.

Breaking Down the Building Blocks of Reading

Phonological Awareness

This is the foundation of reading. It’s a child’s ability to hear, identify, and manipulate sounds in spoken words. For example, recognizing that the word cat is made of three separate sounds—/k/, /a/, /t/. Without this skill, decoding words becomes nearly impossible.

Phonics

Once a child understands sounds, phonics connects those sounds to letters and letter combinations. Systematic instruction introduces these patterns one at a time—starting with simple consonant-vowel-consonant words before moving on to complex patterns like vowel teams (ai, ea) or silent e rules.

Morphology

This is where students learn how words are built. They study prefixes, roots, and suffixes to see how word parts carry meaning. For example, knowing that “un-” means “not” helps decode words like unhappy or unknown.

Fluency

Finally, all these skills come together to create fluency—the ability to read smoothly and effortlessly. When decoding becomes automatic, a reader’s focus shifts to understanding and enjoying what they read.

Systematic instruction leaves no gaps. Each concept is taught in a clear, intentional sequence so children don’t get lost or left behind.

If you’re curious to hear Daniela share real stories of how this method changes students’ lives, listen to the full conversation on the podcast. Her insights will give you a new appreciation for how powerful the science of reading can be.

The Power of Early and Targeted Assessment

Before effective instruction can begin, it’s important to understand what a child truly needs. Daniela Feldhausen starts every learning journey with a detailed assessment process that begins by talking with parents. She listens to their concerns, gathers background information, and learns about the child’s experiences with reading and writing. This first conversation often reveals patterns—such as when the child began struggling or what specific tasks seem most frustrating.

After this discussion, Daniela conducts a series of screening activities to evaluate phonological awareness, decoding skills, and spelling ability. These screenings help pinpoint the root of the difficulty. For some children, the issue lies in decoding, they struggle to recognize sounds and turn them into written words. For others, the problem may be with language comprehension, they can read words aloud but have trouble understanding their meaning.

This distinction matters because it determines the next step. If decoding is the main issue, systematic reading instruction can directly address it. But if comprehension is the challenge, a speech-language pathologist may need to step in to strengthen oral language skills.

Early and targeted assessment ensures that no time or effort is wasted. It allows educators and parents to give each child exactly what they need to thrive.

Inside an Effective Reading Program

An effective reading program doesn’t rely on guessing or memorizing words. It focuses on teaching students exactly how the written language works. This is the heart of Daniela Feldhausen’s approach at Kids Up Reading Tutors, where each lesson is structured, cumulative, and tailored to a child’s specific needs.

Instruction begins with the basics and builds step by step. Every concept is explicitly taught, practiced, and reviewed before moving on to the next. For example, a lesson might start by reviewing familiar sound-letter patterns before introducing a new one, such as a vowel team like ai in “rain.” Once mastered, students might move on to silent e rules or more complex word patterns. Each new layer connects to what they have already learned, ensuring understanding and confidence.

Daniela also integrates encoding (spelling) and decoding (reading) in every session. When children learn to spell, they’re reinforcing the same sound and letter relationships they use to read. For instance, they might compare hope → hoping or hop → hopping to understand why some words drop the “e” while others double the consonant. This builds pattern recognition and deepens mastery.

Another hallmark of an effective program is constant review and celebration of progress. Students regularly revisit previous lessons to keep skills sharp and build automaticity. Small achievements—like reading a full sentence smoothly or spelling a new word correctly—are acknowledged as major victories. These moments of success keep motivation high and show both the student and parent that growth is happening.

By teaching in a clear, sequential way, Daniela’s program helps students move from struggling with basic sounds to reading with ease and enjoyment. Over time, their fluency grows, their confidence strengthens, and they begin to see reading not as a source of frustration but as a skill they can master.

Working With Schools and IEPs

For many families, navigating the school system to get help for a struggling reader can be overwhelming. Understanding your rights and how to work with educators makes all the difference. Parents have the legal right to request an evaluation for a learning disability, such as dyslexia, by submitting a written request to their child’s school. This written request is important because it starts the official timeline for the school to respond and begin the assessment process.

Once a child is identified as needing extra support, the school can create an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a similar support plan. However, not all IEPs are equally effective. One common challenge is that schools often face limited resources—too few specialized teachers, large groups of students, and not enough hours of instruction. This means that even well-meaning educators might not have the time or structure needed to give each child the focused, systematic instruction they require.

That’s where collaboration becomes essential. When tutors and schools coordinate their teaching approaches, students benefit from consistency. If both use the same phonics patterns, reading strategies, and progress goals, learning is reinforced across environments. Daniela Feldhausen has seen this collaboration double the rate of improvement for many students in her program.

If you want to hear Daniela share practical tips for how parents can work with schools and advocate for their children, listen to the full podcast episode on “On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories.” Her insights offer real-world examples of success and lessons learned from years of experience.

Parents can also take an active role by asking for clear, measurable goals, requesting regular progress updates, and ensuring that evidence-based instruction methods are being used. When families and educators work together, children get the consistent, structured support they need to succeed in reading.

Key Takeaways for Parents and Educators

• Struggling readers need explicit, systematic, and individualized teaching. Children with dyslexia or dysgraphia don’t just “catch up” by reading more; they need step-by-step instruction that follows a clear sequence and builds mastery over time.

• Strong literacy starts with phonological awareness, phonics, morphology, and fluency. These four pillars work together to help children connect sounds, letters, word meanings, and reading speed. When one is weak, progress slows, but when all are strengthened, reading becomes fluent and meaningful.

• Assess before you instruct. A thorough assessment reveals what type of support a child needs. Without it, instruction can miss the mark. Daniela Feldhausen’s method always begins with understanding the learner first.

• Collaboration between home, tutors, and schools accelerates progress. When everyone communicates — parents, teachers, and reading specialists — children receive consistent guidance and reinforcement.

• Reading success isn’t about intelligence; it’s about instruction. Every child can learn to read with the right approach. Struggles with reading don’t define ability, they reveal how much the teaching method matters.

If you want to dive deeper into how systematic instruction transforms reading for children with dyslexia and dysgraphia, listen to the full podcast episode featuring Daniela Feldhausen on “On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories.”

Conclusion

Systematic reading instruction provides more than just skills—it gives children the structure and confidence they need to succeed. By breaking reading down into clear, manageable steps and teaching each component explicitly, students can move from frustration to achievement. This approach shows them that reading is not an impossible task, but a skill they can master with the right guidance.

The transformation is profound. When a child who once struggled with every word begins to read fluently and confidently, it is a moment of true empowerment. Parents and educators see the joy and pride that comes from conquering challenges that once seemed insurmountable. Every small victory—reading a sentence smoothly, spelling a tricky word correctly, or understanding a new concept—builds momentum and reinforces that progress is possible.

If your child is struggling to read, don’t lose hope. Look for programs that teach in a way that matches how their brain learns best. Systematic, explicit instruction can change the trajectory of a child’s literacy journey.

Listen to the full episode with Daniela Feldhausen on the On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories podcast.

What Friendship Looks Like When You’re on the Autism Spectrum

Table of Contents

Intro

Understanding the Spectrum Beyond the Stereotypes

The Challenge and Beauty of Friendships on the Spectrum

Life Lessons from the Spectrum

Empowerment through Storytelling

What We Can All Learn, Even If We’re Not on the Spectrum

Conclusion

What Friendship Looks Like When You’re on the Autism Spectrum

In this episode of On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories, host Sonia Krishna Chand sits down with Marccella Gonzalez for a real and open chat. Both women are on the autism spectrum, and they talk about what friendship, life lessons, and personal growth look like for them.

This is not a formal or clinical discussion. It feels more like two friends sharing what life is really like, the good and the hard parts. They laugh, reflect, and remind listeners that it’s okay to be different.

The conversation shows how powerful it is when people share their stories. It helps others feel seen and understood.

So what happens when two autistic women sit down to talk about friendship and growth? You get honesty, laughter, and lessons that anyone can learn from, whether they are neurodivergent or not.

Understanding the Spectrum Beyond the Stereotypes

When people hear the word autism, many still imagine only one kind of person or behavior. But the truth is, autism looks different for everyone. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) simply means a different way of seeing, feeling, and interacting with the world. It is not an illness that needs to be cured. It is not something broken. It is a part of how a person’s brain works and how they experience life.

In the podcast, Sonia Krishna Chand and Marccella Gonzalez talk about this with honesty and warmth. They both believe that autism is part of who they are, not something to fix or hide. Instead of seeing it as a weakness, they see it as a part of their identity that brings both challenges and strengths. For example, someone on the spectrum might notice details others miss, feel emotions deeply, or have a strong sense of honesty and creativity. These are qualities to value and celebrate.

One important part of their discussion is something called masking. Masking happens when autistic people try to hide their true behaviors or feelings in order to fit into social situations. They might copy how others talk, laugh at the right times, or pretend to be comfortable when they are actually overwhelmed. While masking can help them get through certain moments, it can also be exhausting. Over time, it can lead to anxiety, stress, and even burnout because it takes so much energy to pretend to be someone else.

Sonia and Marccella explain that learning to understand yourself is the first step toward peace and confidence. When you know what makes you comfortable, what triggers stress, and what brings you joy, you can live more freely. Self-understanding helps you build a life that fits who you are instead of forcing yourself into spaces that do not feel right.

Their conversation reminds listeners that autism is not about limits. It is about learning how your unique mind works and allowing yourself to live truthfully. Once that happens, acceptance becomes easier, and life begins to feel lighter and more authentic.

The Challenge and Beauty of Friendships on the Spectrum

Friendship can be a beautiful part of life, but for people on the autism spectrum, it often comes with its own set of challenges and lessons. In the podcast, Sonia and Marccella talk about how friendships are not always easy to form or maintain, yet they are deeply meaningful when they work. Their conversation paints a real and heartfelt picture of what friendship looks like through an autistic lens.

A. Making and Maintaining Friendships

For many autistic people, social expectations can be confusing or even draining. Things that seem simple to others, like knowing when to speak, how to respond to jokes, or when to hug someone, may not always come naturally. Sonia and Marccella explain that friendship for them is not something that just happens automatically. It requires effort, honesty, and mutual respect.

Here are a few reasons why forming and keeping friendships can feel challenging:

• Difficulty reading social cues: It can be hard to tell when someone is joking, serious, or upset.

• Misunderstandings: A straightforward comment might be taken the wrong way, or silence might be seen as disinterest when it’s actually just comfort in quietness.

• Need for alone time: Social interactions can take a lot of energy, so many autistic people need time to rest and recharge afterward.

Despite these challenges, both women share that friendship can still be deeply fulfilling. When people communicate clearly and accept each other’s differences, friendships can grow stronger and more genuine.

B. When Friendships Change or Fade

Sometimes friendships drift apart, and that can be painful for anyone. But for someone on the spectrum, it can feel especially confusing or heavy. Sonia and Marccella talk about how easy it is to blame yourself when a friendship ends. You might replay conversations in your mind, wondering what you did wrong.

They remind listeners that part of growing up is learning to let go of guilt. Friendships change for many reasons, and it is not always anyone’s fault. Instead of feeling ashamed or defeated, they encourage focusing on boundaries and self-care. It is okay to recognize when a friendship no longer feels healthy or when you need space. Learning without guilt means understanding that taking care of yourself is not selfish.

C. Finding Safe and Supportive Connections

One of the most powerful points in the conversation is about finding community. Sonia and Marccella describe how connecting with other autistic people feels freeing. There is comfort in being around people who understand your experiences without you having to explain or hide parts of yourself.

They talk about how shared stories can heal and bring people together. When one person speaks openly about their challenges or joys, it gives others the courage to do the same. As Sonia beautifully says, “When we share our stories, we realize we’re not alone.”

Friendship, in the end, is not about fitting into a mold. It is about finding people who make you feel seen, respected, and accepted just as you are. For autistic individuals, these friendships might take time to build, but they are often some of the most genuine and lasting ones of all.

The conversation between Sonia and Marccella is full of wisdom and gentle reminders about what it means to truly know and accept yourself. Through their personal stories, they share lessons that go beyond autism. These are lessons about self-acceptance, balance, and living life in a way that feels right for you.

Life Lessons from the Spectrum

The conversation between Sonia and Marccella is full of wisdom and gentle reminders about what it means to truly know and accept yourself. Through their personal stories, they share lessons that go beyond autism. These are lessons about self-acceptance, balance, and living life in a way that feels right for you.

A. Self-Acceptance Is a Process

Sonia and Marccella both remind listeners that self-acceptance does not happen in one day. It is a process that takes time, patience, and a lot of self-discovery. They explain that understanding your personal triggers, needs, and strengths is the first step. Once you begin to see what works for you and what doesn’t, life becomes a little easier to manage.

For example, you might realize that certain environments make you anxious or that too much noise overwhelms you. Knowing these things helps you make choices that protect your peace. Both women also talk about celebrating small wins, like getting through a social event comfortably or finding a new coping tool that helps.

They also discuss unmasking, which means slowly learning to stop hiding your true self to please others. Unmasking safely means choosing environments and people who make you feel safe to be yourself. This kind of acceptance grows over time, but every small step counts.

B. Coping Strategies that Work

Throughout the episode, Sonia and Marccella share practical ways to handle everyday challenges. They don’t claim to have all the answers, but their advice comes from real experience. Here are some of the coping strategies they talk about or imply:

1. Build routines that respect your sensory needs: Having structure helps reduce anxiety. This could mean planning quiet time after work, avoiding bright or noisy spaces, or keeping familiar items that bring comfort.

2. Communicate boundaries clearly: Let friends and family know what makes you comfortable and what doesn’t. Being honest about your needs can help prevent misunderstandings and build stronger, more respectful relationships.

3. Give yourself permission to rest: It is perfectly okay to say no to social events or take breaks when you need them. Resting is not laziness. It is a form of self-care that helps you stay balanced and emotionally healthy.

These small but powerful strategies show that managing life on the spectrum is about creating habits that support who you are, not forcing yourself to live like everyone else.

C. Redefining “Normal”

One of the most inspiring messages in their discussion is the idea of redefining what “normal” means. Sonia and Marccella remind us that there is no single way to live or make friends. Everyone’s version of happiness and success looks different.

For them, thriving does not mean fitting in or following what society expects. It means living a life that feels true, peaceful, and fulfilling. It means having friendships that accept differences, routines that bring comfort, and goals that reflect your personal journey.

Their message is clear: being different does not make you less. It just means your path looks unique, and that is something to be proud of.

Empowerment through Storytelling

One of the most powerful parts of Sonia and Marccella’s conversation is how their stories create space for others to be seen and understood. When people on the autism spectrum share their experiences, they do more than tell personal stories. They help others learn, feel less alone, and challenge the stereotypes that have existed for too long.

For a long time, autistic voices, especially those of women, have not been heard enough. Many women on the spectrum are underdiagnosed or misunderstood, often because their symptoms look different from what people expect. Some learn to “mask” so well that others don’t realize how hard they are working just to fit in. By speaking openly, Sonia and Marccella give those silent experiences a voice. They show that autism has many faces, and each one deserves to be recognized and respected.

Their conversation also highlights the importance of visibility and representation. When more autistic people, particularly women, share their stories, it helps change how society understands autism. It teaches both neurodivergent and neurotypical communities that there is no single way to be “normal.” Everyone has a unique story, and every story matters.

Being open about personal struggles and growth builds empathy. It allows others to listen without judgment and encourages honesty about things that are often kept hidden. Sonia and Marccella’s openness helps others feel safe to be themselves, too. When people hear stories that reflect their own experiences, it can bring relief, hope, and confidence.

Their message is simple but strong: every time someone tells their story, they make it easier for the next person to do the same. As Sonia beautifully puts it,
“When you tell your story, you’re not just helping yourself. You’re lighting the path for someone else.”

What We Can All Learn, Even If We’re Not on the Spectrum

Even if you are not on the autism spectrum, there is so much to learn from Sonia and Marccella’s conversation. Their stories are not only about autism but about being human — learning, growing, and trying to connect with others in an honest way. The lessons they share can help anyone build better, kinder relationships.

Here are some of the universal lessons from their talk:

1. Be patient with differences

Everyone experiences the world differently. Some people may take longer to respond, need more space, or communicate in a way that feels unfamiliar. Instead of rushing to judge or correct, practice patience. Give people time to express themselves. You never know what they might be dealing with inside.

2. Listen more than you assume

Sometimes we think we know what someone is feeling or trying to say, but we don’t always get it right. Sonia and Marccella remind us that listening with an open heart matters more than assuming we already understand. Ask questions, pay attention, and be willing to learn from others’ experiences.

3. Friendship isn’t about sameness; it’s about respect and understanding

The strongest friendships are not built on being exactly alike. They grow when people accept and appreciate each other’s differences. Real connection happens when we respect boundaries, honor feelings, and show up with kindness.

Their stories encourage us to see friendship and human connection in a new light. Every person you meet has a unique way of thinking, feeling, and expressing love. When you approach relationships with empathy and curiosity, you open the door to deeper understanding.

Whether or not you are on the spectrum, we can all try to make the world a gentler place — one where people feel safe to be themselves and where friendship is built on care, not perfection.

Conclusion

Sonia and Marccella’s conversation is a beautiful reminder of what courage looks like. It takes strength to speak openly about personal experiences, especially in a world that often misunderstands what it means to live on the autism spectrum. By sharing their stories, they give hope and confidence to others who may be walking a similar path.

Their honesty shows that autism is not a limitation. It is simply a different way of seeing and experiencing the world. Through their words, we learn that friendship, self-acceptance, and growth look different for everyone, and that is perfectly okay. Their stories prove that every person, no matter how they think or feel, has something valuable to bring into the world.

At its heart, this conversation is not just about autism. It is about what it means to be human, learning, connecting, and embracing who we truly are.

If you enjoyed this reflection and want to hear the full conversation, listen to the podcast episode “Just Two Girls Discussing Autism Spectrum Disorder, Friendships, and Navigating Life Lessons” on On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories with Sonia Krishna Chand.

Parental Alienation and Its Impact on Children

Table of Contents

Intro

What Is Parental Alienation? 

The Child’s Experience: Torn Between Two Worlds

The Hidden Toll on Parents

Recognizing the Warning Signs

The Role of Courts and Therapy

Steps Toward Healing and Reconnection

Moving Forward: Choosing Awareness and Compassion

Conclusion

Parental Alienation and Its Impact on Children

What happens when a child starts to fear or reject a parent — not because they were hurt or mistreated, but because someone quietly changed how they see that parent?
This painful situation is called parental alienation, and it’s more common than most people realize. It often happens after a breakup or divorce, when one parent — sometimes without even meaning to — turns a child against the other parent through negative talk, manipulation, or emotional pressure.

In this episode of On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories, Tom Flynn opens up about the deep emotional, legal, and psychological effects of parental alienation. He shares real experiences and insights that help us understand what it feels like for both parents and children caught in the middle.

This blog dives into what parental alienation really means, how it damages family relationships, and what we can all do to bring healing, understanding, and hope back into those connections.

What Is Parental Alienation? 

Parental alienation happens when one parent influences a child to turn against the other parent, often without the child even realizing it. It’s not always loud or obvious. Sometimes it’s quiet, subtle, and disguised as “protection” or “concern.” Over time, this emotional manipulation can make a child fear, resent, or reject the other parent — even when that parent has done nothing wrong.

It usually begins slowly. One parent might start making small negative comments about the other, questioning their parenting, or sharing adult issues that children shouldn’t have to worry about. For example, saying things like “Your mom doesn’t really care about you” or “Your dad always lets you down.” Little by little, these words start to plant seeds of doubt in the child’s mind.

Here are some common patterns that show up in parental alienation:

• Negative talk or criticism: One parent constantly speaks badly about the other in front of the child, which damages trust and confuses the child’s feelings.

• Restricting communication or visitation: The alienating parent might block phone calls, cancel visits, or make excuses to limit contact between the child and the other parent.

• Creating guilt or fear: The child may be made to feel guilty for loving both parents or afraid of upsetting the alienating parent if they show affection to the other.

Over time, the child begins to believe these messages, and the relationship with the targeted parent weakens or breaks completely. The heartbreaking truth is that parental alienation doesn’t just harm the parent being pushed away,  it deeply affects the child’s emotional well-being, sense of safety, and identity.

Parental alienation is a form of emotional manipulation. It doesn’t just create distance between a parent and child; it can shape how that child sees themselves and how they learn to trust others in the future.

To better understand how this plays out in real families and what can be done to stop it, listen to “Parental Alienation with Tom Flynn” on the On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories podcast.

The Child’s Experience: Torn Between Two Worlds

Parental alienation puts children in an impossible position. They are caught between two people they love, both of whom should be their safe place. When one parent begins to influence how they see the other, it creates deep emotional confusion. The child starts to feel like they have to pick a side, even though all they really want is peace and love from both parents.

Imagine being a child and hearing negative things about one of your parents all the time. You might start to believe them, not because you’ve seen anything bad yourself, but because you trust the parent who’s saying it. You want to please them and avoid making them upset. This creates loyalty conflicts, the feeling that showing love to one parent is the same as betraying the other.

Here’s what many children experience during parental alienation:

• Loyalty conflicts: They feel torn between two parents and often believe they must choose one to stay “loyal.”

• Guilt and sadness: They may feel guilty for loving or missing the other parent and sad for the family they’ve lost.

• Self-blame: Some children think the conflict is their fault. They may believe they caused the separation or the tension.

• Struggles with self-esteem: Constant emotional pressure can make children question their worth and make it hard for them to trust others later in life.

Even as they grow older, the impact doesn’t just fade away. Many adults who experienced parental alienation as children struggle with trust, identity, and maintaining healthy relationships. They often carry feelings of confusion and regret, wondering why they lost so many years with a parent who loved them.

The most important thing to remember is that children are not freely choosing to reject a parent. They are reacting to emotional pressure they don’t fully understand. Their words or actions may look like rejection, but deep down, it’s a response to fear, guilt, and confusion.

The Hidden Toll on Parents

Parental alienation doesn’t just affect children, it deeply wounds parents too. For the parent being pushed away, often called the alienated parent, the pain can be overwhelming. They may go from being an active, loving part of their child’s life to being treated like a stranger. The sudden rejection can feel confusing, heartbreaking, and isolating.

Imagine trying to reach out to your child only to be met with silence, anger, or refusal to see you. Many alienated parents describe it as a kind of grief that never ends, a living loss. They’re still alive, and so is their child, but the bond that once connected them has been torn apart by something they can’t control.

Here’s what this often looks like:

• Isolation: The alienated parent may be cut off from their child’s life, school events, or milestones. Friends and family might not understand, leaving them even more alone.

• Helplessness: They may feel powerless to change the situation, especially when legal systems are slow to recognize emotional manipulation.

• Misunderstanding: Courts, relatives, or even professionals might see their pain as exaggeration or blame them for the distance, without realizing what’s really happening.

Meanwhile, the parent doing the alienating — often called the favored parent — may not always see the harm they’re causing. Sometimes, they truly believe they’re protecting their child or acting out of love. Other times, they’re driven by anger, resentment, or unresolved conflict with the other parent. Either way, their behavior distorts the child’s reality and damages the relationship between both parents.

The tragedy of parental alienation is that no one truly wins.

• The alienated parent loses precious time and connection.

• The favored parent reinforces unhealthy dynamics that can backfire later.

• And the child grows up caught in the middle, struggling to understand what went wrong.

Just so you know, parental alienation damages both parents — one through loss, the other through the distortion of truth. Healing begins only when the cycle of blame and control is replaced with honesty, empathy, and a shared commitment to the child’s wellbeing.

To hear real experiences and expert insights on the emotional and legal struggles behind parental alienation, listen to “Parental Alienation with Tom Flynn” on the On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories podcast.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Parental alienation doesn’t always start with open hostility — it often begins quietly, through small shifts in a child’s words or behavior. Over time, those changes can grow into a deep emotional divide that’s hard to repair. That’s why recognizing the signs early is so important.

Here are some common red flags that may indicate alienation is taking place:

• A sudden change in attitude: A child who was once close and affectionate becomes distant or angry without a clear reason.

• Adult-like language: The child starts repeating phrases or opinions that sound too mature, often mirroring one parent’s words about “what happened.”

• Avoiding contact: The child resists calls, visits, or messages from one parent even though there’s no history of harm or neglect.

• Fear or guilt: The child seems anxious about showing love or affection to the alienated parent, as if doing so would betray the other parent.

• Distorted memories: One parent begins rewriting family history, blaming the other for every problem or discouraging the child from remembering good times together.

These signs don’t always mean alienation is happening, but they should prompt honest reflection and, if needed, professional support. Sometimes, what looks like rejection is really confusion, a child trying to navigate adult emotions they don’t fully understand.

Early awareness can prevent long-term emotional harm. The sooner parents, relatives, and professionals notice the warning signs, the greater the chance to protect those vital relationships before they’re broken beyond repair.

The Role of Courts and Therapy

When families face parental alienation, many people turn to the courts hoping for justice or a quick solution. But in reality, family courts often struggle to recognize and address alienation because it is rooted in emotions, not just legal facts. It’s not easy to prove emotional manipulation, especially when both parents seem to have valid concerns or when a child insists they want nothing to do with one parent.

Tom Flynn explains that courts are designed to make legal decisions, not heal emotional wounds. While judges can decide custody arrangements or visitation rights, they can’t rebuild trust or undo years of subtle psychological influence. That’s why emotional healing requires more than court orders — it needs consistent, compassionate intervention.

This is where therapy and mental health professionals come in. However, not every therapist is equipped to handle high-conflict family cases. Parental alienation involves complex emotional patterns, so it’s essential to work with professionals who understand family systems, child psychology, and the deep impact of manipulation.

Tom Flynn emphasizes three things that make a difference in the healing process:

1. Emotional repair: Rebuilding a parent-child bond takes patience and reassurance, not force or blame.

2. Open dialogue: Everyone involved — both parents, the child, and the professionals — must be willing to communicate honestly and work toward mutual understanding.

3. Consistent support: Healing takes time. The child especially needs a safe, stable environment where they can process feelings without pressure or guilt.

It is worth noting that, legal rulings may set boundaries, but true recovery comes from emotional repair and continuous support. Both parents must focus on healing, not winning.

To hear Tom Flynn’s insights on how families and professionals can work together to rebuild trust after alienation, listen to “Parental Alienation with Tom Flynn” on the On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories podcast. His story and experience shed light on the emotional and systemic changes needed to truly help affected families heal.

Steps Toward Healing and Reconnection

Healing from parental alienation is not a quick or easy process — it takes time, patience, and a deep commitment to putting the child’s well-being first. But even in the most painful situations, reconnection is possible when adults are willing to approach it with empathy and openness.

Here are some practical steps families can take to begin rebuilding trust and repairing relationships:

1. Create safe spaces for open conversation

Children need to know that it’s okay to express how they feel — even if those feelings are confusing, angry, or mixed. When parents listen without judgment or interruption, it helps the child feel heard and safe again.

2. Encourage both parents’ involvement when appropriate

Unless there are serious safety concerns, it’s important for a child to have access to both parents. Support their right to love and connect with each parent without guilt or fear.

3. Avoid blaming or speaking negatively about the other parent in front of the child

Every hurtful comment, even said out of frustration, can deepen the child’s confusion. Keep adult issues between adults. Children should never feel like they must pick a side.

4. Seek counseling from professionals who understand alienation

Not all therapists are trained in this area, so finding someone with experience in family systems and high-conflict dynamics is key. A skilled therapist can guide the process, help rebuild trust, and provide emotional support for everyone involved.

5. Be patient — rebuilding trust takes time

Healing is gradual. The child may test boundaries or pull away at times, but consistency, love, and calm communication can slowly restore what was lost.

Moving Forward: Choosing Awareness and Compassion

Parental alienation doesn’t only affect the parents or the child involved. It ripples through families, schools, and communities. Teachers, relatives, and friends often witness the tension but don’t always understand what’s happening. That’s why awareness matters — because when more people can recognize the signs, more children and families can be supported before lasting damage is done.

Moving forward means choosing compassion over judgment. Instead of assuming one parent is “difficult” or that a child’s rejection is simply their choice, take a step back and look deeper. Alienation thrives in silence and misunderstanding, but it weakens when people around the family listen, learn, and offer understanding instead of taking sides.

Healing from alienation is possible, but it requires time, patience, and truth. Families can rebuild trust when they focus on love rather than blame, on empathy rather than control. Awareness is the first step, compassion is the next.

When we approach family struggles with open hearts and informed minds, we give children the freedom to love both parents without fear or guilt.

Conclusion

Tom Flynn’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the most painful family situations, healing is possible. Parental alienation can leave deep scars, but it doesn’t have to define the rest of your life or your relationship with your child. When families and communities begin to understand what’s really happening — the emotional manipulation, the confusion, the silence — that awareness opens the door to change.

Healing begins with compassion. It’s about choosing to listen instead of judge, to understand instead of blame. Whether you’re a parent feeling shut out, a loved one watching from the sidelines, or even someone working within the family system, every small act of empathy helps rebuild trust.

If you or someone you know is going through parental alienation, remember this — you’re not alone, and it’s never too late to start healing. The first step is understanding, and the next is choosing love over resentment.

To hear more about Tom Flynn’s journey and how families can move from pain to restoration, listen to “Parental Alienation with Tom Flynn” on the On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories podcast.

Things to Not Say to a Person on the Autism Spectrum

Table of Contents

Intro

The Hidden Harm of “Well-Intentioned” Comments

Seeing the Person, Not Just the Diagnosis

From “Fixing” to “Supporting”: The Mindset Shift

Practical Ways to Communicate and Show Support

Real Talk: What to Say Instead

For Families, Teachers and Friends

Conclusion

How to Talk to a Person on the Autism Spectrum

Have you ever tried to say something kind, only to realize later that it didn’t come out the right way? Maybe you told someone, “You don’t look autistic,” thinking it was a compliment. But instead of helping, it made the person feel unseen or misunderstood.

Many people who are on the autism spectrum experience this often. Friends, family members, or coworkers might mean well, but their words can still hurt. It usually happens because people don’t fully understand what autism really is or what it means to live with it every day.

This is why conversations like this one are so important. Words matter. The things we say can either make someone feel accepted or make them feel judged. The goal here is simple: to learn what not to say, understand why certain comments can be harmful, and discover better ways to communicate that show respect and genuine care.

The Hidden Harm of “Well-Intentioned” Comments

Sometimes, people say things that sound kind on the surface but end up hurting more than they help. These comments are often said with good intentions, but they can quietly dismiss a person’s real experience. This is what we call invalidation. It happens when someone’s feelings or reality are denied simply because they do not match what another person expects or understands.

For example, imagine an autistic person sharing that they find social gatherings overwhelming. Instead of listening, someone replies, “Everyone feels that way sometimes.” Even though it might sound comforting, it actually brushes aside what the person is trying to express. It tells them that their experience is not unique or worth paying attention to.

Here are some common phrases that often cause harm, even when they are meant kindly:

• “Everyone’s a little on the spectrum”

This comment can sound like you are trying to relate, but it makes autism seem like a small quirk instead of a real and complex neurodevelopmental difference. It minimizes what the person goes through and ignores the challenges they may face every day.

• “But you don’t seem autistic”

This might be said as a compliment, but it is not one. What you are really saying is that the person does not fit your idea of what autism should look like. Autism does not have a single look or behavior. Each autistic person experiences it differently, and hearing this phrase can make them feel unseen or pressured to hide who they are.

• “You just need to try harder to fit in”

This statement places the responsibility on the autistic person to change or blend in, instead of encouraging others to be more understanding or inclusive. It suggests that being different is a problem that needs to be fixed, which can be very discouraging.

These kinds of comments can hurt because they do more than just miss the point. They tell autistic people that their feelings, challenges, and ways of being are not valid. They also reinforce stereotypes about what autism should look like and who deserves support.

Most importantly, they shift the focus away from acceptance and toward conformity. Instead of helping someone feel safe to be themselves, these comments make them feel like they have to hide or pretend.

If we truly want to be supportive, we have to start by listening, believing, and respecting each person’s lived experience. When we choose our words with care, we help create a world where everyone feels seen and valued for who they are.

Seeing the Person, Not Just the Diagnosis

It can be easy to focus on labels and forget that behind every diagnosis is a real person with feelings, dreams, and talents. When we talk about autism, it is important to remember that being autistic is only one part of a person’s identity. It does not define everything about who they are.

You might hear people use different terms when talking about autism. Some prefer person-first language such as “a person with autism,” because it puts the person before the condition. Others prefer identity-first language such as “an autistic person,” because they see autism as an important and positive part of who they are. There is no single correct way. The best thing you can do is ask the person what they prefer and respect that choice.

Every autistic person is different. Some may be very social, while others prefer quiet and routine. Some have incredible focus or creativity, while others struggle with sensory overload or communication. Autism does not look the same for everyone, so it helps to see each person as an individual with unique strengths and challenges.

Instead of asking, “What is wrong with them?” try asking, “What works best for them?” That simple change in thinking can shift how you interact and support someone. It moves the focus from trying to fix a person to trying to understand and include them.

A helpful mindset is to practice empathy before making assumptions. If someone seems quiet, distant, or reacts differently in a social situation, pause and remind yourself that there might be a reason behind that behavior. Maybe they are feeling overwhelmed, or maybe they simply process things differently. A moment of understanding can make a world of difference.

 If you want to learn more about how to communicate with empathy and see beyond the label, listen to the full episode of On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories with Sonia Krishna Chand.

From “Fixing” to “Supporting”: The Mindset Shift

When it comes to autism, one of the biggest changes we can make is shifting our mindset from fixing to supporting. Many people, often without realizing it, try to “help” by encouraging autistic individuals to act or think more like everyone else. But real support is not about changing someone. It is about understanding them and helping them thrive in ways that work best for them.

There is a big difference between helping and fixing. Fixing focuses on trying to correct what someone does or how they behave, as if who they are is a problem. Helping focuses on offering understanding, encouragement, and practical support that respects who the person already is.

Here is a simple example:

• ❌ “Make more eye contact”

This sounds like helpful advice, but for many autistic people, eye contact can be uncomfortable or even overwhelming. It puts pressure on them to change something that feels unnatural.

• ✅ “Would you prefer if we talk while walking instead of sitting face to face?”

This small adjustment shows care and understanding. It gives the person a choice and respects their comfort level.

Support is about listening first, not correcting. When you take time to understand what someone needs, you show them that their way of experiencing the world is valid. Collaboration matters more than control. Ask questions like, “What helps you feel comfortable?” or “Is there something I can do to make this easier for you?” These small moments of curiosity can build trust and connection.

To hear more about this mindset shift and how it can make a real difference, listen to On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories with Sonia Krishna Chand.

Practical Ways to Communicate and Show Support

Understanding autism is important, but putting that understanding into action is what really makes a difference. Small changes in how we communicate and interact can help autistic people feel more comfortable, respected, and included. Here are some practical steps you can start using right away.

1. Ask, don’t assume

Instead of guessing what someone needs or how they prefer to communicate, simply ask. A question like, “What communication style works best for you?” shows respect and gives the person control over how they want to connect. It also prevents misunderstandings and helps build trust.

2. Respect sensory needs

Many autistic people experience the world more intensely through their senses. Bright lights, loud noises, or certain textures can be overwhelming. Be mindful of your surroundings. For example, if you notice someone covering their ears or avoiding eye contact, it may be because they are overstimulated, not rude. You can ask if they would like a quieter space or fewer distractions.

3. Offer predictability

Unexpected changes can cause stress or anxiety for some autistic people. Whenever possible, give advance notice about schedule changes, social events, or plans. Even a simple message like, “We’ll be leaving in ten minutes,” can make things smoother and more comfortable.

4. Use positive, strength-based language

Focus on what a person can do, not on what they struggle with. Instead of saying, “You have trouble making friends,” you might say, “You connect best with people who share your interests.” This helps shift the focus from limitations to abilities and strengths.

5. Encourage autonomy

Support self-advocacy by giving space for the person to express their needs and make their own choices. It could be as simple as letting them decide how to communicate or what environment works best. When you respect their decisions, you empower them to take charge of their own comfort and wellbeing.

6. Be patient

Processing and communication can take time. Some autistic people may need a moment to think before responding, or they may prefer to communicate in writing rather than speaking. Give them that time without rushing or interrupting. Patience communicates respect.

Real Talk: What to Say Instead

Knowing what not to say is only half of the picture. The other half is learning how to replace harmful phrases with words that show care, respect, and curiosity. The way we speak can either build bridges or create barriers, and a small change in how we phrase things can make a big difference.

Here are a few examples to guide you:

Instead of saying “You don’t look autistic,” try saying, “Would you like to share what autism means for you?”

This approach invites conversation without judgment. It allows the person to define their experience in their own words rather than being measured against a stereotype. Autism does not have a single look, and this kind of question shows that you are open to learning instead of assuming.

Instead of saying “We’re all a bit on the spectrum,” try saying, “I’d love to learn more about how your brain works.”

The first phrase may sound like a way to relate, but it actually minimizes what autistic people go through. The second phrase shows genuine curiosity and respect. It recognizes that autism is a real and meaningful part of a person’s life, not something that everyone shares to a small degree.

Instead of saying “Why can’t you just act normal?” try asking, “What helps you feel comfortable here?”

The first question puts pressure on the person to change who they are to fit in. The second focuses on creating a more supportive environment. It shifts the responsibility from the autistic person to the situation, helping you find ways to make things easier and more welcoming for them.

By choosing words that show openness and respect, you make communication safer and more authentic. These simple phrases remind autistic people that they do not have to hide or change to be accepted.

For Families, Teachers and Friends

The words we use every day have a powerful effect on the people around us. For someone on the autism spectrum, the way you speak and respond can either build trust or create shame. Families, teachers, and friends play a huge role in shaping how an autistic person sees themselves and how confident they feel in the world.

Here are some simple ways to build stronger, more positive connections in daily life.

1. Use a calm tone and set clear expectations

Autistic individuals often feel more at ease when communication is steady and predictable. Speak calmly and clearly. Avoid sudden changes in tone or unclear instructions. For example, instead of saying, “Behave yourself,” be specific: “Please use your inside voice while we’re in the library.” Clarity reduces anxiety and helps everyone understand what is expected.

2. Validate emotions

If someone is upset, anxious, or frustrated, let them know their feelings are okay. You might say, “I see that this is hard for you,” or “It’s okay to feel overwhelmed right now.” Validation tells the person that their emotions are real and acceptable, even if you do not fully understand them.

3. Celebrate effort and authenticity, not conformity

Encourage people to be themselves. Praise effort, honesty, and creativity rather than how well someone fits into social norms. When you say things like, “I love how focused you were on that project,” instead of, “I’m glad you’re acting more like the others,” you send a message that being different is not only accepted but appreciated.

4. Acceptance builds confidence and self-advocacy

When people feel accepted for who they are, they begin to believe in themselves. They are more likely to speak up about their needs and advocate for what helps them succeed. This kind of confidence starts at home, in classrooms, and within friendships where they feel respected and safe.

Every small interaction matters. Whether you are a parent, teacher, or friend, your patience, tone, and words can make a lasting difference in how an autistic person views themselves and their place in the world.

Conclusion

Supporting someone on the autism spectrum starts with understanding and grows through empathy. Throughout this post, one message has stood out clearly: support is not about changing someone. It is about creating space where they can thrive, feel comfortable, and be accepted for who they are.

When we move beyond awareness and step into true inclusion, we begin to see the beauty in our differences. Every person, autistic or not, has something valuable to bring to the world. By choosing empathy over judgment and understanding over assumptions, we help build communities where everyone belongs.

Keep learning, keep listening, and keep challenging the stereotypes that limit others. The more we understand neurodiversity, the more compassionate and connected our world becomes.

Listen to the full episode of On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories with Sonia Krishna Chand to get insights on how to communicate with empathy and understanding.

How To Change Your Mind and The World

Table of Contents

Intro

From Loss to Leadership: Theresa Agostinelli’s Story

The Power of Mindset: How Thoughts Shape Reality

Turning Trauma into a Turning Point

Purpose and Profits: Building a Life That Aligns with Meaning

5 Practical Ways to Start Changing Your Mind Today

Conclusion

How To Change Your Mind and The World

Have you ever felt like no matter how hard you try, life just won’t shift? You keep putting in the effort, showing up, doing everything you’re supposed to, yet things still look and feel the same. It’s as if the world around you is mirroring your frustration and refusing to move forward.

We’ve all had moments like that, moments where we start to wonder if change is even possible. Maybe it’s in your career, your relationships, or the quiet spaces of your heart where no one else can see. You want something different, something better, but everything feels stuck in place.

Here’s the truth that most of us learn the hard way: real change doesn’t start outside of you. It doesn’t begin when your situation finally improves or when other people start acting differently. Real change starts inside your mind.

On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories, we explore what it truly means to change your mind and, in doing so, change your world. 

From Loss to Leadership: Theresa Agostinelli’s Story

Sometimes life throws us into moments we never expected and didn’t ask for. For Theresa Agostinelli, that moment came when she became a widow at just 26 years old. One day, she was building a life with her husband. The next, she was facing the unimaginable — raising her child alone and trying to figure out how to keep going when everything had fallen apart.

In the middle of her pain, Theresa found herself standing at a crossroads. She could let grief define her, or she could allow it to shape her into something new. It wasn’t easy. There were days filled with fear, uncertainty, and questions that had no clear answers. But instead of letting her story end in loss, she made a choice — a quiet, powerful choice — to see her pain differently.

Theresa decided that what happened to her would not be the end of her story. It would be the beginning of her transformation. She began to reframe her thinking, one step at a time. Instead of asking “Why did this happen to me?” she started asking “What can I learn from this?” That shift changed everything.

Over time, she went back to school, studied human behavior, and became a licensed psychotherapist. She turned her personal experience with grief into a passion for helping others heal and grow. Today, she’s not just surviving, she’s thriving as the CEO of Profits with Purpose.

Theresa’s story reminds us that transformation doesn’t begin when life finally gets better. It begins when you decide to think differently about what’s in front of you. Your mindset is the starting point of every new chapter.

Want to hear how Theresa made that shift and what kept her moving forward? Listen to her full story on the On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories podcast: Change Your Mind, Change Your World.

The Power of Mindset: How Thoughts Shape Reality

Have you ever noticed how two people can go through the same experience but walk away with completely different attitudes? One person feels defeated, while the other somehow finds a reason to grow. The difference isn’t usually what happened, it’s how each person thinks about what happened. That’s the power of mindset.

Our minds are like filters. Every thought, emotion, and decision we make passes through what we believe about ourselves and the world. If your inner filter is filled with fear, doubt, or “I can’t,” then even good opportunities can look impossible. But when your filter is built on hope, resilience, and possibility, you start to notice chances to grow, even in hard situations.

This is what Theresa Agostinelli discovered. After her loss, she realized that she couldn’t control everything happening around her — but she could control what she believed about herself and her future. And that shift changed everything. She often says that when you change your mind, your world changes with it. It’s not just a nice quote; it’s a reality backed by how our brains actually work.

When you choose a growth mindset, your brain begins to create new pathways — new ways of seeing, responding, and coping. You move from “this is the end” to “this could be the start of something new.” That single shift in thought can change how your body reacts to stress, how your emotions settle after disappointment, and how confident you feel about taking your next step.

Think about it.

• When you lose a job, a fixed mindset says, “I failed, and I’ll never get another chance.” A growth mindset says, “Maybe this door closed so I can find the one meant for me.”

• When you face rejection, a fixed mindset says, “I’m not good enough.” A growth mindset asks, “What can I learn from this?”

• Even in burnout, when everything feels heavy, a growth mindset whispers, “I can rest, reset, and rise again.”

Changing your mindset doesn’t magically erase challenges. It just gives you the strength and perspective to face them differently. It helps you see that setbacks aren’t final — they’re feedback.

Theresa’s story shows that when you shift your thinking, you don’t just change your mood or your motivation. You change your whole reality — the way you see yourself, what you believe is possible, and how you move through the world.

Turning Trauma into a Turning Point

Pain has a way of changing us. It can leave us feeling stuck, angry, or afraid to hope again. But it can also become the very thing that shapes us into stronger, wiser, and more compassionate people. The difference lies in how we respond to it.

Theresa Agostinelli is a living example of this truth. She could have let her trauma define her. She could have let the loss, loneliness, and fear become her identity. But she didn’t. Instead, she chose to let her pain teach her. Every tear, every setback, every lonely night became a lesson in resilience.

Rather than running from her grief, she leaned into it — not to stay stuck there, but to understand it. Through that process, she discovered something powerful: pain can be a teacher if you let it. It can show you what truly matters, strip away what doesn’t, and lead you toward a version of yourself you never knew existed.

Theresa often talks about how her healing journey didn’t happen overnight. It was a slow, intentional process of rebuilding her life and mindset piece by piece. She found meaning in helping others who were struggling, and through that, her own healing deepened. What once broke her became the foundation of her purpose.

That’s the beauty of transformation. It’s not about pretending the hurt never happened. It’s about refusing to let it be the final chapter of your story. Your trauma doesn’t have to define you — it can refine you. It can make you wiser, more grounded, and more empathetic toward others who are still finding their way.

So, take a moment to think about your own journey. Maybe there’s something in your past that still hurts or feels unresolved. What if that experience isn’t just something you need to get over, but something you can grow through?

Purpose and Profits: Building a Life That Aligns with Meaning

When Theresa Agostinelli began to rebuild her life, she knew she didn’t just want to survive — she wanted her life to mean something. The lessons she learned through loss and healing weren’t meant to stay hidden; they were meant to help others grow, too. Out of that desire, she founded Profits with Purpose, a company built on the idea that success and meaning can work hand in hand.

For Theresa, business isn’t just about making money. It’s about making an impact. She believes that when your work reflects your values, it not only transforms your career — it transforms your life. That’s what Profits with Purpose represents: the courage to build something that aligns with who you are, not just what you do.

So many people chase success without ever asking themselves why. They reach their goals, but still feel unfulfilled. Theresa teaches that true success starts from the inside. When your heart and your purpose guide your path, your work becomes more than a job — it becomes an extension of your mission.

5 Practical Ways to Start Changing Your Mind Today

Changing your mindset might sound like a big, abstract idea, but it really starts with small, everyday choices. It’s not about flipping a magic switch, it’s about paying attention to how you think and learning to guide those thoughts in a new direction. Here are five simple ways to begin that process today:

1. Catch your thoughts

Pay attention to the stories you tell yourself. Are they filled with hope or with fear? Do they lift you up or hold you back? Most of us run on mental autopilot, repeating the same thoughts without realizing how much power they have. The first step to change is awareness. Start noticing your inner dialogue. When you catch a negative or limiting thought, pause and ask yourself if it’s helping you grow.

2. Challenge negative beliefs

Once you’ve caught a negative thought, question it. Ask yourself, “Is this true, or just familiar?” Sometimes our minds replay old patterns from past experiences — not because they’re accurate, but because they’re comfortable. Learning to challenge those old stories allows you to create space for new ones. You can’t build a new life with outdated beliefs.

3. Speak life into yourself

Words matter, especially the ones you say to yourself. Every time you replace self-criticism with affirming words, you’re retraining your brain to think differently. Instead of saying, “I’ll never get this right,” try, “I’m learning and getting stronger every day.” Instead of “I can’t,” try “I’m figuring it out.” You’ll be amazed at how your energy and confidence shift when your self-talk becomes kinder and more hopeful.

4. Surround yourself with growth-minded people

The people around you shape your mindset more than you might realize. If you spend time with people who complain, doubt, or stay stuck, it’s easy to fall into that same pattern. Seek out people who challenge you, encourage you, and remind you of what’s possible. Growth-minded people don’t just lift your mood, they lift your vision.

5. Take small steps aligned with your new mindset

Mindset work isn’t just about thinking differently; it’s about acting differently, too.
Each time you take a small, positive step that aligns with your new beliefs, you’re proving to yourself that change is real. Maybe that means setting a new boundary, applying for a new role, or starting that project you’ve been putting off. Every small step builds momentum.

Changing your mind doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen one thought, one choice, and one brave step at a time. Be patient with yourself. The work you do inside will slowly begin to show on the outside — in your confidence, your peace, and your results.

Want more encouragement and real-life examples of how to put these steps into practice? Listen to Change Your Mind, Change Your World on the On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories podcast.

Conclusion

Every real transformation begins in the same place, the mind. It’s easy to think that change will come when our circumstances improve, when people treat us differently, or when life finally slows down. But the truth is, change starts inside of us.

Your mind is where new beginnings are born. When you start thinking differently, you begin to see possibilities where there used to be walls. You start responding to challenges with hope instead of fear. The world around you starts to shift because you have shifted.

Theresa Agostinelli’s story is a powerful reminder that your situation doesn’t have to define your future. The moment you decide to renew your mind, you open the door to healing, purpose, and growth. You don’t have to wait for the perfect time or the perfect plan, you can start right where you are, with one small thought that says, “I can change.”

To hear Theresa share how her mindset shift turned tragedy into transformation, tune in to the full episode of Change Your Mind, Change Your World on the On the Spectrum Empowerment Stories podcast.