Resources for Autism
Changing Outcomes for Individuals with Autism
Dr. Luke Beardon's principle, often referred to as the "Golden Equation," states that the outcome for an autistic individual is the result of their autism combined with their environment. This equation "Autism + Environment = Outcomes" underscores that the environment significantly influences the experiences and outcomes for autistic individuals, rather than attributing challenges solely to their neurology. According to Beardon, if you want a successful outcome and recognize that an autistic person cannot change their brain, the only variable you can modify is the environment.
This principle suggests that by adjusting the environment to better suit the needs of autistic people, through understanding, acceptance, and reasonable adjustments, society can significantly improve their quality of life and outcomes. It also implies that the environment, which includes the people within it, plays a crucial role in shaping the experiences and outcomes for autistic individuals.
Dr. Beardon's work emphasizes the importance of changing attitudes and practices to create more inclusive and supportive environments for autistic individuals, highlighting the need for genuine knowledge about autism to foster acceptance and celebration of neurodiversity.
Creating a Supportive Environment
To focus on creating a supportive environment that allows you to thrive. Here are some overview recommendations to consider as you move forward:
- Establishing routines can help reduce stress and provide a sense of stability. Modifying your environment to address sensory sensitivities, can make a significant difference in your comfort and focus.
- Advocate for Yourself: Understanding your strengths and challenges is key to self-advocacy. Empower yourself by making choices that reflect your needs within the various aspects of your daily life.
- Prioritize Mental Health and Well-being: Integrate small stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness or deep breathing within your day, and engage with activities that recharge you. Seek extra help when needed from family or a therapist. Creating self-care routines, such as maintaining good sleep, nutrition, and hygiene habits, can also support your overall well-being.
- Connect with Others in Ways That Feel Comfortable: Connecting with others who understand your experience can reduce feelings of isolation, though this may not always feel easy or natural. It’s important to find spaces where you feel comfortable, whether through support groups or online communities, to share experiences and learn from others at your own pace.
- Seek Workplace/Educational Accommodations: Seek accommodations that cater to your needs, like flexible hours or quiet spaces, to ensure you can perform at your best without unnecessary stress.
- Focus on Your Strengths and Interests: Lean into your personal interests and talents (things that come more easily to you). Doing so can help you find fulfilling career paths and activities that bring joy and a sense of purpose.
Online, Books, and Local Resources for Support
Engaging with other autistic individuals through online communities and sharing insights can foster a sense of connection, reduce feelings of isolation, and inspire new ways to thrive. Shifting the focus toward creating supportive environments, as opposed to adhering strictly to standard methods, can help individuals feel more understood and empowered.
Below is a list of websites and organizations, including Ontario-based and broader resources, that offer valuable information, community connections, and support for autistic individuals, particularly women.
Ontario-Based Resources
- Autism Ontario
A leading source of autism information in Ontario, offering support groups, webinars, and online events for individuals and families.
Website: autismontario.com - Asperger's Society of Ontario (ASO)
The only Ontario agency solely devoted to serving individuals with Level 1 ASD and their families, providing education and support.
Website: asontario.org - Kerry's Place Autism Services
Offers skill-building and support programs across Ontario, including social and life skills groups.
Website: kerrysplace.org - Ontario Autism Program (OAP)
Provides services and support for children and youth with autism, including access to resources and community programs.
Website: ontario.ca - Toronto Central Autism Support Directory
A directory of autism services in Toronto, including support groups and local organizations.
Website: torontocentralhealthline.ca
General Resources
- National Autistic Society Online Community
A platform for autistic individuals and families to connect, share experiences, and find support.
Website: autism.org.uk - Autism Speaks - Finding Your Community
Lists national and online autism-friendly community groups and resources for connection and support.
Website: autismspeaks.org - Autism Empowerment
Provides resources, support groups, and community connections for women and girls on the autism spectrum.
Website: autismempowerment.org - Autistic Women's Group
An online support group offering a safe space for autistic women to share experiences and strategies.
Website: autisticwomensgroup.com - Autistic Girls Network
Aims to raise awareness and provide community support for autistic girls and women.
Website: autisticgirlsnetwork.org
Articles and Books for Individuals with Autism
- Association for Autism and Neurodiversity offers a free downloadable e-book called “All About Being Autistic.”
- Women and Girls with Autism Spectrum Disorder by Tony Attwood and Michelle Garnett - This book provides a comprehensive understanding of autism in females, covering topics such as diagnosis, relationships, and mental health.
- Autism and Masking: How and Why People Do It, and the Impact It Can Have by Barrie Gill and Emma Dunn - This book explores the concept of masking and its effects on individuals with autism, particularly women.
- Unmasking Autism by Barrie Gill and Emma Dunn - This book delves into the experiences of autistic women, discussing topics such as diagnosis, relationships, and self-acceptance.
- The Autistic State of Mind: The Chaotic Symphony of a Late-Diagnosed Woman’s Mind by Laura James - This memoir offers a personal and relatable account of the author’s experiences as an autistic woman, covering topics such as diagnosis, relationships, and self-acceptance.
- Spectrum Women: Walking to the Beat of Autism edited by Barb Cook and Tony Attwood - This anthology features personal stories and reflections from autistic women, providing a unique perspective on the experiences of women on the autism spectrum.
- Autism in Heels: The Untold Story of a Female Life on the Autism Spectrum by Jennifer Cook O’Toole - This memoir offers a personal and engaging account of the author’s experiences as an autistic woman, covering topics such as diagnosis, relationships, and self-acceptance.
- Women with Autism: Accepting and Embracing Autism Spectrum Disorder as You Move Towards an Authentic Life by Jack Ph.D. and Claire - This book provides a comprehensive guide for adult females with autism, covering topics such as self-acceptance, relationships, and personal growth.
- Articles written by a psychologist with autism, Dr. Neff at Neurodivergentinsights.org provides insights, tips, and education for individuals diagnosed with autism and their families.
- Looking After Your Autistic Self by Niamh Garvey
- Women and Girls on the Autism Spectrum by Sarah Hendrickx
Governmental Support
Services specific to individuals with disabilities could assist you with daily functioning as well as provide programs.