Thriving Autistic CLG’s Post

It is week 3 on our Autistic Adult Discovery Programme and we are exploring: Emotional Regulation and Self Care Sonny Jane Wise describes emotional regulation as ' "The ability to control and manage your emotions as well as your reactions to your emotions .” When we are talking about emotional regulation we are not talking about repressing and controlling our emotions rather we are aiming to gain a deeper understanding of how our sensory system and social communication needs work for us as autistic people and how this can impact our emotions. If we have a deeper understanding of our unique autistic self and a deeper understanding of our autistic identity then we can make some changes in our day to day lives and environment to help our days flow a bit easier. Membership is free for autistic adults and our 6 week Discovery Programme is currently fully funded by Rethink Ireland Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth Find out more: https://lnkd.in/eeeAqpEx

Autistic Masking. Everyone masks, especially those from marginalised identities, but for an Autistic person it can be draining, traumatic and lead to Autistic burnout Possible effects of masking - burnout, self- medication, dissociation, fawning, people pleasing However, is it always safe to unmask? Questions to consider: When/where/with whom do you mask? Why do you think that might be? Our discovery course is fully funded for autistic adults by Rethink Ireland and Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth To find out more: https://lnkd.in/eeeAqpEx

Raising Awareness - As policy makers, business owners, influential movers and shakers, let us seek to create alternatives for persons with special needs. We need to do more. Rather than just being empathetic let us implement changes to help improve the services that persons with special needs receive. April 2 is Autism Awareness Day but let’s not limit our efforts to a day’s work. Let’s work towards a sustained norm that promotes inclusion.

Listening is the best way to learn how to serve and support

🧩April marks Autism Awareness Month, a time dedicated to fostering understanding and acceptance for individuals on the autism spectrum. As we advocate for inclusivity and diversity in the workplace and beyond, it's crucial to recognize the unique perspectives and talents that neurodivergent individuals bring to our communities. Embracing neurodiversity isn't just about tolerance; it's about actively creating environments where everyone can thrive. By promoting empathy, patience, and genuine curiosity, we can cultivate workplaces that are not only more inclusive but also more innovative and dynamic. Let's pledge to be allies in the journey towards creating a more inclusive world. Whether it's through small acts of kindness, advocating for accommodations, or simply taking the time to listen and learn, each of us has the power to make a difference. Together, let's raise awareness, celebrate differences, and build a future where everyone, regardless of neurology, feels valued, respected, and understood. #AutismAwarenessMonth #Neurodiversity #Inclusion #KindnessMatters #BeKind #SpreadKindness

What do our caregivers say about Baby Ubuntu? We believe our caregivers voices speak strongly to the impact of the programme. 💬 Here’s what one Ugandan mama had to say about the changes she has seen in her child through engaging in the programme. Baby Ubuntu is a participatory group progamme which aims to: - Increase caregiver knowledge, confidence and skills in caring for their child with a developmental disability - Promote inclusion and participation of children with disability within the family and community - Maximise a child’s developmental potential, health and quality of life - Promote empowerment of caregivers through information sharing and peer support - Promote the human rights of children with disability

Embracing Autism Acceptance Month 🌈   As we commemorate Autism Acceptance Month, symbolized by the vibrant rainbow, let's celebrate the unique strengths, talents, and perspectives of individuals on the autism spectrum. This rainbow represents the diversity and beauty of neurodiversity, highlighting the spectrum of experiences and abilities within our communities. This month is a reminder to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for everyone. Let's continue to create a world where diversity is celebrated, differences are embraced, and every individual is valued for who they are well beyond this month. Together, we can build a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. #AutismAwareness #Acceptance #Inclusion #Diversity

At Entrust, we understand that the needs, preferences, and challenges of an individual with autism may change over time. We provide continuous support and accommodation for your loved ones as they transition through life stages. We also emphasize the importance of fostering kindness and acceptance to create a more inclusive space for everyone: Inclusion: Builds a more welcoming world. Better Support: Leads to improved services. Empathy: Breaks down barriers and misconceptions. https://buff.ly/4eCQQ6g #AutismAwareness #EntrustDisabilityServices

Pennsylvania’s Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) is implementing significant updates to the Intellectual Disabilities and Autism (ID/A) Waiver program, aimed at improving service quality, accessibility, and outcomes for participants. See key changes here: https://lnkd.in/d7qMmBb9

This week in our Discovery Programme for Autistic adults we are exploring emotional regulation and self-care. Meltdowns/ shutdowns and internalised meltdowns can be a regular reality for many autistic adults struggling to manage and juggle the demands of life, especially if the environment isn't right for us and if we don't have accommodations in place. We have been discussing the difference between shutdowns and internalised meltdowns. Do you experience these differently? Some people feel that internalised meltdowns are experienced as intense chaos inside their minds, leaving them with no capacity to function or even communicate. They then need time and space to re-regulate. In contrast, we have been exploring what some people experience as the state of a shutdown, where you may experience a freeze state and feel numb to everything around you. Does this resonate with you? What are your experiences like? Everyone is different, there is very little research about inner autistic experiences for adults, but it can be validating to be part of a community so you feel less alone and are able listen to others and share the more difficult experiences of autistic overwhelm. Over the next week we will be sharing some ideas to help support regulation and self-care. To find out more about our fully funded 6 week course please see: https://lnkd.in/eeeAqpEx Rethink Ireland Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth