Can you please help Damian with his research? He is a fellow Aspie

I have cut and pasted research that is happening at the University of Queensland by Damian Santomauro. Please help Damian as his work is valuable and will assist persons on the Autism. Below is from Damian

"Hi everyone! I am currently running focus groups at the University of Queensland and am currently looking for parents of adolescents and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Participants will be asked questions about their experiences with the emotion regulation of their adolescent/young adult children.

Each focus group will take about an hour and the information you provide will be treated confidentially. There will also be morning or afternoon tea depending on what time best suits everyone. Please let me know if you are interested in participating! :)

Damian does not have a webpage but is on Facebook. He can be contacted by double clicking on the title of this post to arrive at his Facebook page. Please also visit my own website which has Damian's contact details http://www.garryburge.com

Please be sure to visit Brisbane Asperger Syndrome Adults also for the latest updates

A second rate citizen and poor quality of life

As most readers of my blog are aware and new ones who may be reading it, that I advocate for the Autism Spectrum as an adult. What I do have to emphasize is that with unemployment and suicide rates amongst the highest in this demographic, that life as a person on the Autism Spectrum can be compared to that of a second rate citizen. By this I mean without employment, services and support, you can feel as though your quality of life is a lot lower. It is harder to live on your own, have money to be able to afford to do things and be eligible or successful in relationships.

I know many men on the Autism Spectrum who are frustrated, socially isolated and angry with how this 'me society' continues to corrode community and impinge on mental health. It makes you sad when you hear of high unemployment rates, suicide in the worst instances or even within the general population a person dying in their home only to be discovered months or years later because community has deteriorated to cause isolation.

Yesterday I drove to a friend's place on the other side of Brisbane. As I drove on Brisbane's sub standard roads which are in need of a major upgrade, I looked at the Brisbane CBD and realised how ugly and uninviting it is becoming. Whereas once some old architecture existed, this has now been replaced by angular and unappealing concrete buildings. With the demolition of old buildings comes to cutting down of creativity only to replace this with an un inviting landscape and a cold populace. In other words I think Brisbane is not a world city and it is becoming uglier more and more. Some of the new bridges look out of place and infrastructure is seriously disadvantaging the city landscape.

I no longer feel safe in Brisbane anymore. Police are not on the beat, and driving around Brisbane has become a nightmare. Added to this the roads are largely unsafe and crime is fast becoming a problem. Brisbane's public transport system also lets the city down because either it is not on time, it is insufficient or there are unsavory people who use the poorly supervised system putting the honest and law abiding person at risk. It is just a big mess. I personally feel that Brisbane needs to become safe again and Queensland has to stop becoming the dumping ground with the rest of Australia of walking zombies. If things do not change soon, Australia is going to become a third world nation fast.

Internet Dating websites are also places I feel for persons to fake often their true identity. They are filled with a shallow sense of mentality where a person can disguise their motives in a cyber game. I have found them to be unhelpful and most of the women on them seem cold and lacking in femininity. Standards in society are fast disappearing. People have to stop pretending that things are ok because they are not. Responsibility needs to be dealt with and this me society is only destroying the very soul of humanity. If it continues, more and more people will become depressed, anxious, frustrated and lonely. Things need to change soon.

Friendly service as opposed to unfriendly service

When I visited Ireland in June of this year, I stayed at Galway. The hotel I stayed in offered very good service and I found the staff that worked at the hotel very friendly. Meals were available when you requested them and it was very professionally run as a hotel. I always like to provide good feedback because when a good service is provided it makes the management know that the work they do and their code of conduct to the customer is always noticed. I filled out the feedback card and received the following email response

Dear Mr Burge,

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for taking the time to fill out a comment card after your recent stay at the Menlo Park Hotel. We value these as an essential tool in the continuous review and improvement of the service we offer.



I was delighted to see you had felt that Sarah deserved a special mention. As our service promise is ‘Our friendly professional team are dedicated to providing excellent service’, it is always heartening to know that this is indeed what our guests are experiencing.I have passed on your kind feedback her and she has asked me to extend her gratitude.


We would be most appreciative if you could take a moment to write a review on http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk about your experience with us as we realise the importance of genuine feedback in the current climate.


We would be delighted to welcome you back to the Menlo Park Hotel in the future. As a valued guest, we would be delighted to offer you a preferential rate on your next visit. Please contact the hotel on 091-761122 and quote the code CCR2 to receive this rate.

Many Thanks and Kind Regards,

Guest Relations
Reservations/ Áirithintí
Menlo Park Hotel & Conference Centre
Terryland/Tír Oileáin
Galway/Gaillimh
Direct Line/Líne Díreach: 091 761122
Fax/Faics 091 761222
Email/R-phost: reservations@menloparkhotel.com
Web/Suíomh: www.menloparkhotel.com

In Australia it is hard to find professional service and I remember on one occasion confronting a very rude barber at New Market in Brisbane. Despite this man being rude and obnoxious I found his sense of humour to be of bad taste. I also had to complain about a staff member in a supermarket being very rude and unhelpful. In Australia it seems that customer service no longer exists. I do not appreciate being called 'mate' when I do not know the person behind the counter and more importantly I think it would be helpful if a staff member would take the time to help you out rather than point you in a vague direction to where you wish to purchase a product. Decency and respect need to return to the trade and service industries. Have you ever thought about praising a work environment that does a good job rather than just expect it? Maybe by providing feedback you help the organisation to improve!

Brisbane Asperger Syndrome Adults is bigger and better

Since its inception Brisbane Asperger Syndrome Adults has now grown to over 200 members. The group of Facebook provides information, awareness and a place to connect for adults around the world. It is the hope of the group to provide up to date information and more importantly a place to connect to break down the barriers of social isolation and depression. The group consists of adults from around the world and plans are under way to make the group more supportive for adults.

Is support changing for adults?

To answer this question all I can simply say is that within my own advocacy I am coming into contact with more adults on the Autism Spectrum. I no longer feel alone and think it is truly awesome that I am connecting other Aspies as we like to call ourselves. We're all different as Aspies but the thing is that we also have supporters

One of the things I would like to see change in Australia is the letting down of this guard that disclosure of Autism or searching for help or showing emotion is some kind of weakness. It is not a weakness and we have to ensure adults feel proud of who they are and can lead the next generation of Aspies and give them hope. Important updates appear in the Brisbane Asperger Syndrome Adults group and we ask for you to visit our page. The group is but one way to connect adults and hopefully in time more support and greater awareness will follow.

Dr Tony Attwood's email response to my question concerning the difference between High Functioning Autism and Asperger Syndrome

Dear Garry

Thanks for the message and I think those with high functioning autism may have a more severe expression of the characteristics than someone with Asperger’s syndrome. This may be not only in the traditional area of language but also in terms of emotions. It may also be that those with Asperger’s syndrome may have a greater intellectual ability and so can compensate for this difficulty to a greater extent than those with high functioning autism who may have a history of very early cognitive and linguistic delay.

With regard to the review of your book, I think it is very fair comment and you may well consider a longer revision of the book that could be more interesting to mainline publishers.

You raise an interesting suggestion, namely a magazine for adults on the autism spectrum. You may be interested to have a look at the magazine “Asperger United”, produced by and for people with Autism Spectrum conditions. It is supported by the National Autistic Society in London and the email address is asp.utd.@nas.org.uk.

I have received copies of “Asperger United” which is based in the UK and have been very impressed with the contributions and topics.

Best Wishes

Tony

Professor Tony Attwood

Are Australian Universities lowering their standards?

Since I graduated from the University of New England in 1999, I have noticed what I call the decline in quality education. More and more the substance and quality seem to be fast disappearing from course structure and attendance at university is just all about what job a person can obtain at the end of their degree. I believe universities are no longer places which focus on thought or on education but more so places where standards have been lowered just to meet funding and quota placements.

It really is concerning when Australian universities are examined more closely. Gone are the days where thought and constructive thinking were once endemic. Today's student is just a number with the main focus on quantity with little or no understanding or implementation of practical or theoretical use afterward.

The University of Queensland for instance I believe had deteriorated in standards over the last 10 or more so years. Today's student for instance seems poorly prepared to know how to access the library and seems largely unaware and under prepared for the responsibilities that befall them once they leave the academic environment. I no longer see people who are prepared to think but more so see a selfish and me focused environment which demonstrates little incentive when preparation is required for the outside world. Universities have always unfortunately had an "Ego central" mentality and working at UQ has exposed me to a herd mentality. I grew tired of having to 'baby' young people who should really be prepared for tertiary study. These people have undergone also a schooling system that has failed them also in that it does not prepare them for the basics and the necessary structures for tertiary study. Instead of creating thinkers and analysts etc, the tertiary environment seems to be creating once again a herd mentality. The good student who is self disciplined and wanting to further their knowledge just seems to be in the minority. It is truly concerning the way universities have gone. With the lowering of standards and watering down of course work, people are not thinking but more so just being spoon fed information which seems to do little in making them thinkers of the future. It is about time that quality and substance re-emerges within the university and schooling environments for the focus on filling quotas and making universities into selfish businesses is not going in their favour.

When closing examining the tertiary environment the fault is not with the student but more so the education system itself. Without being taught the basics and provided with the necessary foundations, a student is poorly prepared for the outside world. It really concerns me about the state of the future. If students are not learning the basic fundamentals of being able to write properly, understand basic comprehension, and quality then how will they go beyond the school and tertiary environment. A person has to think for themselves within a tertiary environment and also have an open mind. They need to be able to weigh up information and be intellectually curious to assist them in their thirst for knowledge. I personally believe universities have failed to equip persons with the basic fundamentals of learning and the main focus today is on what job a person can get while attendance at university is just wasted on pointless pursuits. The university should return to a thinking environment with the main focus on learning and the implementation of a core structure. That is my opinion any way.

Acting on my own counsel

As an adult on the Autism Spectrum I find I have to talk to myself about dealing with social situations and people around me. For instance, I need to try and safeguard myself from potential issues and dangers. I have to often double think which can also be difficult.

When I confront an issue or difficult situation it can often be very stressful and good people are not always around to safeguard you or warn you of apprising danger. In order to deal with this I have to rely on my intelligence to try and avoid difficulties which means that I miss out on the social queues altogether.

When I started to meet more Aspies, I realised I was not alone nor mad when they also talk to themselves. Some Aspies are known to actually have conversations with themselves and delve into intellectual curiosity behind closed doors. It is just the way our brains are wired. People may not always be around and most of us struggle with relationships. I am told that I have a lot of things going for me and that I am high functioning. Believe me this makes life harder! People cannot always see just exactly what I go through. I have to find the energy to drive myself to the very few social events I attend if I am able to. Having to deal with anxiety and not always knowing what to say and being mindful to not intentionally offend people can be a difficult task. In a lot of situations I find myself on the outer with people and wish that restaurants could provide ear plugs when the music is at a certain volume. It would be difficult because I could not hear what the other person is saying but having very sensitive hearing does make certain sounds very overwhelming.

As I stated in my recent post having supporting networks is essential for persons on the Autism Spectrum. This greatly assists with accessing the community and feeling less socially isolated.

Understanding boundaries and building social networks

This afternoon I met with a friend at UQ and discussed with this friend travel experiences both he did and I did myself. While talking with him, it was very positive as I had someone I could talk to who is also curious and interested to also know about the Autism Spectrum. I spoke with this friend about the traveling I did myself and also asked him where he had been. I also talked about other issues concerning the country and what countries he visited. He has suggested that I also try and connect with the multi faith chaplaincy at UQ and has offered to help put me in touch with them.

As people on the Autism Spectrum struggle with not always being understood it is necessary that boundaries are made obvious. This friend advised me that I cannot always catch up with him as he has a busy work schedule but has made it clear of times when he is free to meet up on campus and to talk. It makes it easier when people, especially friends are more upfront than not bothering with you at all. It is also encouraging that he talks with friends and family in trying to understand Autism better. Some of the topics I also discussed with this friend were why some people are Atheist and others Agnostic.

As an Aspie building social networks is important. As relationships are very difficult to find, it is important to have people who can try and help you where they can. I am fortunate to have some friends and I am seeing another friend this weekend and have spoken to another on msn. I also have some supportive people where I work also. Amongst my other friends are some Aspies I know on Facebook and some that I meet at UQ. Having a social network is important because without it, people on the Autism Spectrum can be very lonely. Unfortunately though I cannot help all Aspies as I am trying my best to keep on top of my life.

When I met with the friend this afternoon, he asked me what I am trying to achieve with raising awareness of the Autism Spectrum? I told him that I am concerned about future generations and it is important that we get awareness out there. I feel concerned that without awareness that persons on the Autism Spectrum will be misunderstood and have a lower quality of life. The friend also asked me why was the Autism Spectrum different to other disabilities. My response is that people do not see Autism and it is a stand alone disability. It affects a person socially and the person on the Autism Spectrum is more vulnerable to mental illness.

I hope to catch up with more friends soon. I find I get hurt easily with dating websites for even if I do manage to make contact with a woman on it that usually it does not last long. I then find myself feeling deflated and not getting anywhere. For Aspies the whole dating process is deflating in itself and there exists very rare or no services at all. I really need to focus on understanding boundaries and building social networks. I have found that some adults are hard to keep as friends on the Autism Spectrum because they tend to take things I say very literally or I have a falling out with them because they cannot see both sides of a situation. I do get on with some adults though but also realise I need non Autistic friends also. Aspies need to learn to get on with NT's for without them life is difficult and we struggle more. I know one Aspie who has good social networks and he never responds to my messages on Facebook. I know he is in the background and perhaps has his own issues to deal with. I am encouraged by the fact that more information now exists on the Autism Spectrum so people can read and understand more but there is still a long way to go!

Meltdown, burnout and workplace restructure

Currently UQ Library is undergoing restructure and what makes things even worse is that the large volume of students on campus creates sensory overload. I find myself stuck between a rock and a hard post when I have to try and get around this. Just doing Check In duties twice a day can be very taxing. What happens in check in? As the University of Queensland Library has purchased a book sorting machine from Germany, it is taking some time for this book sorter to work properly. As well as this the book vending machine is also having to be rectified so that books can be sorted properly. I was in meltdown yesterday and asked the supervisor if I could be taken off Check In. I felt in meltdown and if placed in that area, I just felt I would not be able to cope.

The modern workplace is becoming more and more stressful because people expect more and the volume of users relying on the new library machines are greatly outweighing demand on the machines. I am constantly having to change sorting bins in the Check In Area and ensure that any stray books and holds have their hold's labels printed off and placed on the holds shelf in the High Use Area for library patrons to gather. The library is having significant issues with books showing available on the catalogue but unavailable when patrons want the books. The result is often stressed and sometimes angry library patrons wanting to know where books are and when these books will become available.

The Library of Congress caters for a large library collection. Unlike the Dewey Decimal System, the Library of Congress caters for continually expanding call numbers. As the expansion grows then it is obvious that system of control is required. Restructuring of a workplace often involves an element of misery because change can be both positive and alarming for anyone concerned. At times coming to work can be like a pressure pot. Just getting through the day and managing high levels of stress which triggers anxiety if not controlled can cause problems with mental function. I see the only way to handle and adapt to change and stress is to jettison some of the areas I cannot control. Often in Check In, searches are required for misconduct letters. This means all 4 floors need to have the shelves checked to ascertain for sure that books are missing from the library shelves. Within a library the biggest area of importance is ensuring books are on the shelves and all items are accessible to the public. In my current position which I have held for approximately 6 years, I am mainly involved with shelving library items, shelf checking and back shelving etc. I also undertake Check In which is behind the library loans desk. Since automation, this area has changed somewhat. UQ works on Hew Levels and a person is designated to a particular Hew level and cannot go beyond their duty statement for skills and duties. For instance my job involves manual handling but no computer work. Why I work part time is because OHWS (Occupational Health Work & Safety) issues have caused staff to have accidents if they work beyond 4 hours as work is manual handling. I hope one day to retire as I just don't think I can handle the stresses of working in and applying for higher level positions. People really don't understand what goes on in a library and they should really take the time to understand how a library, especially a university library really function.

How then does the modern library need to change?

There are many arguments for digitizing books. They last longer, more accessible, free up space etc. In my current role I think that Service Support Staff should undergo courses or training to prepare them for digitizing library books. If libraries do not look ahead then there are going to be issues with the transition into the digital age. I have a lot of ideas for what I call an interactive library but I feel held back by lacking qualifications in a neuro typical world. As long as there is focus on credentials more so than enthusiasm and initiative things will never change!

The difference between High Functioning Autism and Asperger Syndrome my interpretation

I have often wondered what the difference between high functioning Autism and Asperger Syndrome is. In my own opinion I think the separation is that high functioning Autism means that the person is able to function as best they can but they have more significant impairment with social interaction. For instance they internalise a lot of their thoughts and problems and may take things more literally than what an Aspie does. In a social situation a person with high functioning Autism may see things as more abstract. Whereas Aspies can communicate but in their own way, a person with high functioning Autism may just find the whole means of communication more difficult. They may find it harder to make an effort in being sociable and may struggle more within communication.

In adults whom I have suspected to be more high functioning Autism, I find they tend to be much harder to communicate with and often I may feel inclined to do their thinking for them which drains me. An adult with high functioning Autism may suffer and this is only my view point of course, greater social isolation and more difficulty in being able to obtain help and support. They may also struggle in accessing the wider community. Also does an adult with high functioning Autism talk to themselves as the greater majority of Aspies seem too? When talking with adults whom I have suspected to be high functioning I have noticed that they do not talk to themselves. They tend to have a more routine based life style and may have difficulty in some areas showing empathy. Perhaps an Aspie is able to understand areas of empathy whereas an adult with high functioning Autism may just simply not understand where empathy may be required?

To conclude if I was asked to state what I believe to be the difference between an adult with high functioning Autism and one with Asperger Syndrome. The characteristics are not clearly defined but I would tend to have it as a guess that the high functioning Autistic person would think more in abstract and have some difficulties in understanding areas of empathy whereas an Aspie can understand empathy if it is explained to them. Again this is only my point of view. I think a high functioning Autistic person struggles more in friendship in that sometimes they just don't get the finer detail and tend to take things more literally. Research into high functioning Autism and Asperger Syndrome in adults needs more investigation as I do believe there are unique characteristics which define them.

Magazine for adults on the Autism Spectrum

As I come into contact with more and more around from around the world I think about ways to help them get support, understanding and access to services. What I have in mind is a magazine for adults on the Autism Spectrum which I would call "The World Aspie". The title is subject to change but what I would like is input from other adults into this magazine no matter where they are in the world. The magazine would highlight the issues concerning adults but more importantly mention success stories.

The challenge would be how to advertise the magazine and more importantly obtain more awareness of it. I would have to work out how I can produce the magazine and where the magazine can reach a wider audience. While I hear from more adults on the Autism Spectrum some tell me of how lonely they get, how they are not finding support within employment or just simply cannot get a job. Others also want to make friends and enter relationships but just finding the necessary challenges to raise both awareness and understanding seems increasingly difficult and challenging.

I intend to float the idea of a magazine specifically tailored for adults on the Autism Spectrum and hopefully gauge opinions from other adults on the Autism Spectrum. If the magazine proves successful then with a combined effort a publishing company could be approached or the magazine could even go on Dr Tony Attwood's website. I would need to talk to Dr Attwood also at some stage to see what he thinks. We really need to get more awareness of adults on the Autism Spectrum out to the wider community. The question remains how and perhaps a magazine is one way to go about it. The magazine could also appear in libraries to further raise awareness?

July update

Lately I have been waking up in the mornings wondering whether I am in Brisbane or Siberia. The mornings have been very cold like this morning.

Things seem to be progressing a long somewhat slowly. I just joined an online dating agency and am corresponding with a few women on it. I don't have expectations but it does provide me with some hope. When I visited Europe in May and June of this year, amongst my travels I did meet a few Aspies. One of them I hoped would visit Australia this year but this now looks increasingly uncertain. Hopefully next year this person may come but for now, I just have to leave the situation in their hands.

I have currently put my second book on the back burner as the thought of writing another book is just too overwhelming. Despite contacting writers groups and other places, I have had no responses. It just seems like another expectation not reached. I have also offered to speak at a school in Ipswich about my own experiences of having Asperger Syndrome. I am waiting to hear back from this school also.

My book will be added to the University of Queensland, State Library of New South Wales and Brisbane City Council Library collections. This should happen very shortly.

I am still currently looking at ways to maximize my social life and tomorrow afternoon I will be meeting with a friend at UQ. I have a few friends now which is really awesome. I also hope to give other Aspies hope in that finding employment and having hope is possible. I was told by a friend yesterday that I am doing good work to greatly assist and enrich the lives of adults on the Autism Spectrum so things are looking good.

I am also impressed with some of the Aspies at UQ who are now starting to try and assist with support for adults on the Autism Spectrum. This is my update for now.

Encouraging a thinking Australia

It amazes me how after 12 years of schooling that young people think that going to the Gold Coast and getting totally drunk is such a good way to make use of freedom. Wouldn't it be better instead rather than having 'schoolies' to actually see young people show some initiative and more importantly society allowing for them to show some maturity?

What would be a good idea is to see young people encouraged to travel abroad and to see the outside world around them. Rather than simply consuming alcohol and being exposed to worthless predators and dangers, a trip overseas or some kind of incentive would teach younger people more about the world around them. It would particularly expose them to different cultures and to make them think and be more responsible for themselves.

In my personal opinion, 'schoolies week' just shows no incentive. After 12 years of a hard slog it is good to let your hair down so to speak but also it is also a great idea to see other cultures and how the rest of the world functions and exists. I wish I could have traveled more when I was younger. Traveling opens your eyes and exposes you to other lifestyles and makes you feel more grateful of your own.

The school system needs to encourage younger people to be more responsible and for this we need a quality education. It concerns me when I see young children exposed to computers and using mobile phones at a very young age. The very necessity of play time and the use of imagination are important. Without this children evolve into adulthood life and are not equipped with assertive thinking and responsibility.

Rather than argue whether or not compulsory voting should exist why not educate people to vote for their own views. Surely the school system needs to develop strategies and introduce a system of learning to make people think and be more responsible for themselves. I am concerned that there are walking zombies in Australia. These people just cannot think for themselves and expect others to do their thinking for them. Surely this needs to change? Why not have and encourage a thinking Australia and remove the complacency also?

Are you happy in the western world?

Australia is a very lucky country but I don't think many people take this for granted. I sometimes feel dissatisfied with life when I have so much to be thankful for. Around each and every one of us we are blessed with freedom and choice. It seems that as people we can just about choose and throw away what we don't want. The alarming thing is are we starting to do this with people?

I do not like being competitive with other people and putting myself first. Sometimes though I have to as helping other people is not always possible. I seem to be often a hindrance rather than a help. I don't know why people are so wary nowadays but I guess it is due to people who have exploited others.

I seldom buy new clothes or things for myself. Not that I don't have the money, just that I don't see any point. What's the point of dressing up if all you are doing is investing time and energy into appearance and nobody really cares too much any way? Furthermore, if I dress up then I stand out and that may be asking for trouble. I have a wardrobe of sports jackets, ties, shoes and trousers which I have not worn much for the last 13 years. They just sit in my cupboard gathering dust.

I was watching on television this evening how elderly people are having their money stolen at ATM machines. Old fashioned or not isn't this actually stealing? It is truly sad when old people and senior citizen are not treated with respect in our society. They are no longer safe in their homes and often their offspring are only interested in their money once deceased. Surely life is more than this? There just is no pride in people or respect. The world is fast becoming a mess. I find it annoying when people come knocking at my front door asking me for money. I know there are people that are needy but surely there are other ways of doing this?

I often think about living in some third world country where I can help people who really need help. Unfortunately though it boils down to personal safety. I would probably end up sick, injured or even dead by taking the brave steps. I just find at times that western society is so selfish and me focused. I try to shield myself from this but it is often difficult. Sometimes I dislike the selfishness in myself but I have to try and keep afloat. Where are the churches in times of need? More importantly where is the Catholic Church? You known when I was in Rome I could not believe that within a stone's throw of the Vatican there were poor people on the streets. Also the cost of visiting the Vatican is just outrageous. Where is the western world going and how much longer can it continue like it is? I just do things on my own as I find people unreliable now and let me down all of the time. There are some good people but it seems that almost all communication is on their terms. What a world we live in? Oslo is a wake up call because folks with the way things are we all need to enjoy our lives as best we can rather than just chasing money. Money just makes people greedy and hollow. It does things but it makes people selfish.

People are also too opinionated and easily offended nowadays also. You just have to open your mouth and say a few words and that gets you into trouble. People need to smile and have more fun!

The snotty attitude syndrome

Again I am wrongly perceived as being a selfish person in that my parents insist that I should go to church. The problem I find is I am cynical of churches as some of the most hypocritical people attend them. The few that claim to be Christian, are concerned with self image and the few that back stab others. They then attend a congregation and just use the fact that they are Christian to get away with it. How about some of the snobbish people that exist on the planet? I am not singling out a church but I am more so talking about experiences I have had with churches. Several years back I attended a large church in the western suburbs of Brisbane. This church had a lot of young people in it. Even though I tried hard back then to fit in, I found myself again rejected and people clinging together like sheep. You don't need to go to church to be a good Christian.

I also have known of people within the church who have meddled in politics and this is not a good idea. If God does exist then it is up to the individual to find their own way to God. Of course someone who is wacko like me is not the best person to ask as apparently I must be 'f**d up', well that's the way it is in tribal Brisbane. Either you conform or like sport or otherwise you are some social retard which I have been told. I mean nobody even thanks anyone here. You try to be nice or pleasant to someone and you never get a thanks in return. People just expect it. How rude! I think Brisbane is fast becoming a snotty city. People just don't care about anyone else here and if you have a problem you may as well not go out. You are judged in every way. People avoid you and if you are an elderly person sadly you may die in your house and nobody really cares or bothers to ask after you. I know of one old man who lived in a nursing home and all his family ever wanted was his money. Isn't this sad? Does it not penetrate your skull and make you realise that society has become selfish and nobody cares for community anymore? Just look at Oslo as an example. A peaceful place and it was bombed. The world is not safe. The planet cannot continue to keep going on the way it is as people are becoming more selfish. I am told I am selfish and I don't care well listen, I actually do. It is just that you chose in this hostile place to not give myself and others a chance as we do not conform to your standards. It is unhealthy this obsession with Rugby League. People are walking zombies as they don't think and are not responsible for their actions. People don't have respect for themselves and others anymore. The world has become so inwardly and self centred that community is on the decline. People in Brisbane live behind their high fences and within the neighbourhood if you want to call it that nobody talks to anyone else. "I am right Jack" attitude means that nobody bothers to ask or help anyone else. People live in their houses and lock themselves away and the Police are not on the beat. They are more interested in busting people who go over the speed limit and we don't feel safe in our homes anymore. People become so distracted by reality that they make themselves so busy to avoid responsibility. It is a sad society we live in and unless things change, things are only going to get worse. This is my reality check to you the reader.

How safe and fair is your workplace?

Just out of curiosity it would be gauge across the community the following information from polls concerning the few adults who are in employment. This research would and I hope greatly improve awareness of issues in the workplace concerning bullying, discrimination and OHWS procedures. In Australia Occupational Work Place Health and Safety procedures are designed to ensure that a work environment is safe for all workers. What would be interesting though is if at all possible how safe and fair is it if you are a person on the Autism Spectrum. If you can please take the time to complete the polls which of course will anonymous it would greatly assist in awareness.

Your appreciation would be most valuable. The polls can be found on this blog and all this is required is for you to navigate your way through them and complete them where you can.

Please click on the title of this post for more information concerning Occupational Health and Workplace Safety Procedures.

Why Queensland needs to change especially Brisbane?

These are the problems I find with Brisbane and Queensland in general.

1. The majority of people in Queensland are fiercely conservative and resistant to change
2. Most people not all are racist, bigots and homophobic
3. Some people are snotty and unhelpful and never obliging
4. For the last 30 years Brisbane and Queensland have never adopted Daylight Saving to fall in line with the other eastern capitals
5. The roads are crap and sub standard
6. Very few people help others
7. Brisbane refuses to make the transition into a city and remains an over sized country town
8. The Gold Coast has become a Bogan Zone where crime is on the increase. Perhaps a ploy to steer tourists away because of underlying racism
9. Infrastructure is backward
10. This Queensland is a country Maron supporter Rugby League is way over the top

How Queensland can change

1. Fall in line with the eastern capital in summer and not be dictated to by the rural areas of Queensland. If they don't want to have daylight saving then let them go it alone. Brisbane cannot continue to be behind the other eastern capitals unless it wants to remain backward
2. Improve infrastructure
3. Push the bogans and the crime out of the Gold Coast so that it does not become more and more of a crime capital in Australia
4. Brisbane needs to become a city and not an over sized country town.
5. More open mindedness and vast improvements in education.

I am Australian and a geographical line does not determine my identity. If people are offended by this post well I am sorry but someone has to say something. The Bjelke-Petersen era in Queensland has ended so people move forward!

Review on the Australian Movie Walk About

To the rest of the world Australia remains either an unknown country or one that is too far away but what is Australia really like from my own perspective?

Australia is a country that a lot of people may never get to and it is one that remains a mystery unless you have actually been or live here. A lot of Australia comprises of vast deserts in which you could land a 747 or a Martian Colony could land in the middle and nobody would know.

One movie I thought I would share with anyone who is interested is called Walkabout. This movie was made in 1971 John Gorton was prime minister. The movie makes me think because it shows how two children desert Sydney and head outback. Here the terrain is harsh and they encounter an Aborigine. The movie shows the contrast between the original native inhabitants who have occupied Australia and the two children who struggle to survive after their father has killed himself by driving into the dessert.

People say that I am only interested in Asperger Syndrome but I do think a lot. I think Australia is like another world and those who have been fortunate to have visited here can see how we live here. Australia remains a country isolated by others but yet still has many interesting features despite its harshness.

The movie shows no bias and should you wish to watch it please double click on the title of this post. For anyone thinking of visiting Australia it shows the contrast between city and outback.

Looking after yourself.

Exercise and massage I find are very helpful in ensuring you stay fit and healthy. First of all I find that I get a lot of tension in my back, spinal area, neck and head. Anxiety tends to take hold of these areas and with a half an hour massage, a lot of this tension is gone. I also find cardio vascular good to improve heart rate, deep breathing and alertness. People think that going to the gym means you have to use weights and push yourself beyond measure but I am currently doing cardio vascular and this suits me fine.



Breathing can often be difficult for if breathing is too shallow it tends to fuel anxiety. The deeper the breathing the less fuel for anxiety. It is also important to eat well and to eat foods that are not going to make you put on weight or cause other problems. If only gyms would design more programs for persons on the Autism Spectrum they could be doing a lot to significantly reduce anxiety and stress issues in most persons especially on the Autism Spectrum.

High Functioning Autism & Asperger Syndrome in adults

This morning I emailed Dr Tony Attwood the following question in order to satisfy my own curiosity

[10:44:01 AM] Garry Burge: Hi Tony with High Functioning Autism and Asperger Syndrome in adults. Do you think the difference could be that an adult with High Functioning Autism has more difficulty with showing affection? Whereas an Asperger Adult is able to show empathy in some ways almost neuro typical? What I have noticed with some adults that some I suspect to have more high functioning Autism as they have more difficulty with displaying empathy or may not know their actions. I think if for instance a person was with a person who fell and cut their leg. The Aspie would see the situation and try to their best assist with it whereas a high functioning person with Autism would perhaps say I need to and get a cup of tea or just not see or respond to the situation?

What exactly is the difference between high functioning Autism and Asperger Syndrome in adults?

I will see if Dr Tony Attwood is able to respond sometime

A means of Independent Living

One of the challenges confronting adults on the Autism Spectrum is Independent Living. It can be very hard to allow for independent living because adults are unemployed, on low incomes or simply cannot afford the high rental fees paid to uncaring landlords or property owners. Therefore what can be done?

One suggestion I would like to raise is for a person on a disability pension to have access to a community worker or someone as in the case of Australia who is able to provide advice on living arrangements. With the necessary and essential funding from Autism Associations, property could be purchased in the form of town houses or other comfortable accommodation. This accommodation would be monitored by someone within the Autism Association to ensure that proper auditing and management occurs within the allotted property.

How can an adult on the Autism Spectrum be helped to find Independent Living?

It would be necessary for someone trained as in the case of Australia from Centrelink or another body. This person would meet with the parents and the adult on the Autism Spectrum and discuss affordability in terms of paying for the accommodation, living expenses etc. This accommodation would also need to be near the adult with Autism's work so that they do not have to run a car etc.

I believe Autism Associations need funding to support living arrangements for adults on the Autism Spectrum. Community or Public Housing just isn't up to par. Shared living arrangements also do not work either so what needs to be considered is what is the best and most affordable choice of living for an adult on the Autism Spectrum? Surely Autism Associations can receive funding to assist with this?

At present I am disadvantaged by my living arrangements for living with my elderly parents, I simply do not have the money or the income to live in comfortable accommodation or at least up to standard. I would instantly be penalised by having to pay high rent which more than likely would go into the pocket of some greedy landlord or property owner who doesn't give a stuff whether you have a disability or not! I am open to consultation should there be more questions concerning the issue of costs and rent etc. I think persons on low incomes or who have a disability are treated harshly penalised and provided with poor accommodation which means living at home and being with their parents as a strain is the only option. I also think it is unfair that low income single people are penalised by high rent or paying the costs of people on combined salaries or in relationships. Things need to change and change fast. Support for low income earners on single incomes and who are single need more support and access to better living arrangements to take the strain off elderly parents concerned or worried about their future. Governments need to listen and act fast on what will be a growing problem!

World Autism Adult Conference

I have often wondered about an Autism Adult World Conference. My plan would be to ask Dr Tony Attwood to attend and have adults meet in Brisbane, Australia from around the world. Such a conference would involve a lot of work but it is possible. I wonder if money could be raised as donations to assist adults in making the journey to Australia and to attend?

I feel that in order to address the issues concerning adults and for adults world wide to improve services in their cities, towns and country then such a conference would allow for this opportunity.

The Autism World Adult Conference would involve

1. Adults discussing issues that relate to them
2. Ways of addressing unemployment
3. Methods to increase services and support
4. Employment Programs
5. Ways of addressing social isolation, mental illness and anxiety.
6. An opportunity for Autism Works, Specialisterne, Aspiritech to attend
7. Employment agencies and employers suited to Adults with Autism
8. Measures to prevent bullying, discrimination and unfair treatment

I am always optimistic and believe that things can change and that we need to remain positive. The World Autism Adult Conference would allow not only adults in Australia to address their concerns but adults from around the world. I would envisage the conference to be in roughly 2 years time. A lot of work would need to be carried out for which I would be more than willing to assist with. I am more than willing to put in the hardwork because personally I think more needs to be done for adults!

I will be seriously thinking about ideas if such a conference is to go ahead and to approach adults on the Autism Spectrum from around the world and Autism Associations etc. Please stay tuned for my thoughts on this subject.

Being seen as rude when explanation is all that is required

It can be difficult at times when people think I am being rude when really I am just speaking my mind and being honest. As an Aspie I find that sometimes or often I may offend people and don't know why or how I have done so. Just by being blunt and saying what I mean can be misconstrued as rude for simply lacking understanding.

It is hard being an Aspie in a neuro typical body because it is harder for people to see and understand the difficulties I have. If I try and explain them if given the opportunity, people still don't seem to understand why I think and act the way I do. Often family members can be the biggest critics because they have lived with an Aspie all of their lives and just find it hard to accept and understand that the person on the Autism Spectrum is different and thinks and acts differently.

One of the biggest challenges I have is wanting an independent life but unfortunately my income is not high enough which makes this difficult. As I get older, just simply finding what NT's (neuro typicals) call a lighter side is difficult. My parents whom I still live with insist on me being like a neuro typical but they don't understand that this is not easy for me. I am quite content and happy with some aspects of my life but what I find most frustrating is other people not really accepting it. Why do I need to change? Why can't I just be myself?

My parents are concerned about my future. What will happen to me after they have passed on? Where will I be living and will I get lonely? This is not just me alone but other persons with a disability and on the Autism Spectrum. It can often be a very worrying concept as to what happens to a person after the parents are no longer around.

I find I am talking to myself more than what I used to as I try and figure out the world around me. I find it increasingly harder to adapt to the world around me and people telling me I should try harder and be more positive. It is hard to do on your own and life is so difficult at times. I don't find things easy and I had to work hard to get to where I am today. People say to me that all I talk about is Autism. I live with Autism 24/7 and I can't escape it because I live with it. I can try and socialise with people but I find myself on the outer with them even if I don't talk about Asperger Syndrome. I know of other charities but the difficulty is that unless you are directly affected by a disability or disorder then you can put it out of mind and sight. For me I find this difficult to do because the conventional world is just so frustrating at times. My parents worry that I do not see the difficulties which I confront but I know I have to be strong. I know one day that death will fall all of us and at times I think it an escape. The world is just so confusing at times and people really frustrate me. I would never contemplate suicide but society has to start listening to the Autism Spectrum because it is never going to go away. I am not being rude I just need people to listen and try and understand however hard that may be!

Becoming set in my ways

As I approach 40 I am starting to realise that I can only do so much on this earth. I feel that trying to make change is much harder as I become older. I find that having dreams, or goals are just more difficult and more importantly having hope just merely depends on luck. I find that mustering energy to find motivation is harder and I feel more comfortable with just coping as best I can. At times I feel like certain aspects in my life are difficult to change and having goals are often disappointing especially if these don't work out.

I sometimes feel mentally drained and I know that being comfortably well off is something that I can only dream about but never really visualise. The structures of society can often feel numbing at times and where I see other people's happiness I feel happy for them but know that for me I have my own strengths and weaknesses. I try not to compare myself to others as this only makes me feel depressed so solitude at times can be your only friend.

I get tired at times of being yelled at or more importantly feeling like I have to yell at people when they are unable to understand. I exist or feel at times like I am in a cage and my brain is unable to break through of the mindset that I have. The looping thoughts and sometimes feeling somewhat down.

I believe I am talented but not in a neuro typical sense. I will never be a genius nor an expert but more so just a mere survivor. I walk this earth as I have done for the past 38 years not really knowing who I am but if there is a God I just wish God would give me a sign or some kind of means of communication of what my exact purpose on earth actually is? I have always felt ever since a comment was made to me when I was a teenager that "I am one of the beautiful people" that I am at least making some kind of change on this earth? I know I will never be successful in a neuro typical sense nor do I want to be but in my own ways I am a survivor and as Dr Tony Attwood says one of life's heros. I know that I will never be fully understood and I know that everyone is on earth for some kind of purpose. Perhaps mine is to be a strong Autism Advocate.

I often watch youtube videos of Martin Luther King. I like the way he spoke and stood up for what he believed in. I wish I could have met him, shook his hand and told him that I admired him as a person. Perhaps like him there are many before and after him with the same message and word to enlighten and change the world. I hope the world does change for Autistic people and I hope that my efforts have moved the wheel forward. I know some people don't believe in God but if there is not a God then what is the purpose to life? Why is it so complex? Why are some people cruel and why are there wars? I guess it is the human condition? As I finish this post I leave you with a video of Martin Luther King in which he stood up for rights. I hope everyone has a good week. Martin King had a tough job standing up for what he believed and I have even a tougher job in that I stand up for people with Autism right around the world. We are a silent majority and some of us may be unable to speak and people cannot see how Autism affects us. What I can say though is we want inclusion and acceptance also. UnU

Some very positive developments

Over the past few months some very positive developments have been occurring for adults on the Autism Spectrum. More importantly though I am pleased that more adults are wanting to visit Australia. One adult is visiting Australia very soon but some others are willing to make the journey to Australia also.

It would be good to still explore the possibility of world conference for adults on the Autism Spectrum in Brisbane, Australia but for now I just intend to keep chipping away. It is great to connect with adults abroad on Facebook and through skype and more and more the difficulties and issues associated with social isolation and depression are slowly and I emphasize slowly are slowly starting to disappear.

I am currently exploring ways of building networks for adults to access services especially here in Brisbane. I also am hopeful that with more awareness that friendships can be made and possibly relationships explored. Quite simply I am not giving up and I am prepared to keep working in these areas. Things are looking positive and I remain optimistic that employment for adults on the Autism Spectrum is happening through Autism Works, Specialisterne, and Aspiritech and hopefully, yes hopefully very soon Melbourne, Australia. So the ball is rolling in terms of employing adults on the Autism Spectrum and the next stage is to just begin with finding the services and strengthening networks

I now have adults on the Autism Spectrum across the globe that I am in contact with so things are starting to look positive. We also are fortunate to have Dr Tony Attwood and other very important people here in Brisbane helping with spreading the word about Autism. I am also delighted to hear that on the Sunshine Coast that a support group exists called MindMattrz Psychology Clinic and Centre for Autism.

I would encourage anyone to read teh following books from Dr Tony Attwood with this post and other sources of valuable information. More importantly to be kept up to date with my blog.

Books on bullying and Asperger Syndrome

Books on employment for adults with Asperger Syndrome

I thought I would enclose some useful books for adults with Asperger Syndrome and others to understand them in relation to employment issues

Trying to connect with people

As an Aspie I find the social world confusing and sometimes even depressing. You can use the motto that I have to try harder and think more positively but really does it get you anywhere? It seems that non Autistic people communicate and interact in different ways than my own. I have tried all different types of groups and activities both in the past and a little in the present to no avail. No matter whether you join a church group, a sporting club or even a chess club that it involves social skills.

I find myself even if I am brave enough to be social which uses spare energy reserves just on the outer in social situations. I find myself just as an observer but not a participant within conversation and I think what really is the point? I could be at home reading about the history of Gibraltar or why monkeys eat bananas or some other intellectually curious topic. I just find most if not all non Autistic communication and small talk just a total waste of energy and time.

As an Aspie I feel I am disadvantaged by limited or poor social networks. I find that the only way to improve my networking skills is to use Facebook. Here I don't need to meet people face to face nor deal with anxiety of being on time or driving a car to get there and where to find parking. Also not being anxious about whether I will be hit with a parking fine etc. Parking signs are very confusing as well as mind blindness when dealing with social situations. I also find friendship and interaction on other people's terms so what really is the point of trying to keep up or make friends anyway? Just being on my own greatly alleviates social anxiety!

I wonder why things that work are also changed. For instance the University of Queensland Electronic Self Service which seemed to be working fine to me to check pay details and leave entitlements etc. What is supposed to be better is actually worse.

At times or mostly I just talk to myself as people are never really there nor reliable when you need them. I am constantly confused by people who don't say what they mean or who have underlying motives which they are not willing to disclose. It is hard to trust people also and to be understood by them. People just don't get it and is it worth all the mental energy and explanation to keep trying to explain? Most Aspies also live with their parents and some in sub standard accommodation because of greedy landlords and other properties owners only after money but not a person's well being.

My experiences with online dating websites

My involvement with online dating websites seems to have been a waste of time. I find the biggest problem is the trolling men that use these websites just looking for casual sex. There is no real guidelines or more importantly authenticity with such websites and you are unsure of what kind of people use them and more importantly what the people are like.

What I personally find is that Asperger men are disadvantaged through online dating because they have to compete or are out numbered by NT men. The NT man usually has all the cards to play and hits on women or just hooks up with them for flings or casual sex. For Asperger men I think we or I am more so focused on quality but the whole online dating thing seems to be loosely designed in that even if you are successful in meeting a person then there still is competition or more choices.

The biggest problem with online dating for Aspies more so from a male's experience is that you are even unsure of the authenticity of some of the women on it. Are they genuinely single for the very few who are? Do they have or not have kids? Are they rational and together within themselves? What kind of people are they and what type of man are they looking for? To be honest I find internet dating just a waste of time for me as an Aspie. I never really connect with anyone anyway and more importantly I am unsure of the person in the rare instance who may contact me. I also find that internet dating is just a haven for trolling men in pursuit of sex, short term flings, ones who are players and much more. Furthermore, one wonders how many married people are using the websites also and creating false aliases? As an Asperger male I find I am instantly out numbered by competition and pretty girls aren't going to go for 'geeky' or 'quirky' straight guys. Every time I have used internet dating sites I may as well just count sheep more so than waste my time on them.

I know some Aspies using online dating websites and very very few it seems actually get a date in the first place. If they do get a date then and again in my own personal experience the woman usually turns away or I find myself sitting there thinking I am somewhere else. One has to ask them-self is online dating really a genuine way to meet people or is it just a haven for mostly trolls?

Dealing with intensity

Making friends and finding social networks can be especially difficult for me as an Aspie. As I use vast amounts of mental energy in order to communicate I find myself only able to interact with people when I can and feel up to it. I struggle with forming friendships and find that the process of making friends and forming relationships can be simply overwhelming.

As I work very hard at just doing the simplest things, I can put a lot of energy and enthusiasm into wanting to make a friend or have friends and this can often cause issues of intensity in others. What society does not really understand is that some Aspies work very hard at forming friendships and even more so relationships. Often just wanting a friend or being accepted by younger people can often be misconstrued in many incorrect ways. People can have issues with Aspies invading privacy, over stepping boundaries and simply by being too intense to force others away.

I find relationships especially difficult and cannot understand how two people can constantly share space without getting mentally exhausted in the process. I also get frustrated with society's expectations that if you are not in a relationship that there is something seriously wrong with you and you are perhaps dysfunctional. I think a lot of people are either largely homophobic or fearful of others they do not understand. Why does a person have to continually defend or be conformed into some kind of box so that people will feel more comfortable? People also seem to think and feel that because you imply the word homophobic that I myself must be homosexual myself. There is nothing wrong with diversity and however a person lives their life is their own business. It seems that with sexuality that people seem to think that there is a black and white answer. Either you are in a relationship, homosexual or dysfunctional. It becomes such a restricted way of thinking that I find as an Aspie that the pressures of fitting into some kind of box or stereotype are just so pressuring.

I think that Aspie wiring effects the way we think and feel as people and society should really mind its own business and not make assertions which sometimes people make even though they are not aware that they are doing it. I think Australian society is especially rigid for Aspies and rather than be accepted we tend to withdraw into social isolation or our own comfort zones in order to survive. Our often intellectual curiosity tends to work against us for if we try to talk and are open minded people either tell us to shut up, not look more thoroughly at what we are talking about or just dismiss us as some kind of weird freaks which they are unable to comprehend. Intensity in friendship is because Aspies work harder at forming friendships because they don't always come easy to us. We also have to work hard at most things unless they are an obsession in which we can invest all of our energy. Even in our obsessions we can become so obsessed with our special interests that we can also turn people away so it is a never ending scenario. You need to closely understand and careful examine all people on the Autism Spectrum for we are all different. We just see things differently to you and for that we should not be wrongly judged.

Finding a cure for the Autism Spectrum

With more and more diagnosis of Autism occurring should there be a cure for Autism? It seems that for adults now diagnosed with Autism and children finding a cure would cause us to feel at a loss or forgotten about. Finding a cure concerns me in that we would be eliminating people who provide innovation and diversity within our society. Rather than find a cure, there needs to be a balanced approach in firstly providing awareness of the Autism Spectrum and to also allow and encourage survival skills for those affected by the Autism Spectrum.

I believe it is wrong of people to blame vaccines and trying to find a cure when more simply society needs better coping strategies to deal with certain situations. It is necessary that early intervention and more importantly the school is a means of ensuring steps for better management. Some behaviours in persons on the Autism Spectrum are difficult to manage and the answer is what can be done? There is no easy answer but the most important process is to have awareness to reach the wider community. Tolerance and understanding are required more so than an us and them approach. I believe it is wrong for Aspies to want the world to be all one way and it is not proper for NT's to want to change Aspies. What is more needed is for early intervention to provide coping strategies to deal with behavioural problems and for the medical profession to stop seeing everything as either anatomical or biological. The brains of Autistic people need to be researched more to find out how a person on the Autism Spectrum thinks and feels.

I personally believe Jenny McCarthy and other vocal people in the United States are creating a major disservice to Autism by wanting to find a cure to Autism and blaming vaccines. A more positive and inclusive approach is required and this has to happen fast. I have included a youtube video of Jenny McCarthy with this post which can be watched by double clicking on this post.

A vision for the Autism Spectrum in Brisbane

There are many benefits to Brisbane in terms of raising awareness of the Autism Spectrum and obtaining support. Firstly Dr Tony Attwood who is the leading person on Asperger Syndrome resides in Brisbane. Also we have Asperger Services Australia with its dedication to raising awareness of Asperger Syndrome. We also have the University of Queensland and my own website in which I try and raise awareness. Finally we have the work of Damian Santamauro and his PhD in the Autism Spectrum.

What I would like to see in Brisbane and Australia is firstly a greater awareness and understanding of the Autism Spectrum in both children and in adults. We need to provide support and services to those who need them and more importantly we need an adult support group which I am hoping will one day become a reality at the University of Queensland. I am in contact with Dublin Trinity College which has an adult group and it would be good if UQ could form an alliance with Trinity College to find out how an adult group could be formed here in Brisbane.

Brisbane, Australia will one day also be set for the expansion of Autism Works based in the United Kingdom which is starting the ball rolling by employing adults on the Autism Spectrum as software testers. Chris Mitchell whom I have known since 1999 and Peter MacDonald are working very tirelessly in getting Autism Works off the ground and I am in contact with both Peter and Chris wherever possible.

On my website which you can visit by simply double clicking on this post, you will find information about Autism Works, the work that I do, Dr Tony Attwood's website and even listen to the Asperger Adult Group in Dublin, Ireland which was provided to me courtesy of Dr David Jordan who is an adult with Asperger Syndrome from Dublin.

Brisbane and Sydney will be very fortunate in hosting adults on the Autism Spectrum from overseas. Both cities have hosted Dr Temple Grandin, Leanne Holiday, Chris Mitchell and soon Stephen Hughes will be visiting us from Belfast in Ireland. Stephen has a wealth of knowledge and experience in IT which will greatly assist I am hoping in kick starting Australia as another country to look into recruiting adults on the Autism Spectrum as software testers.

I try to remain optimistic wherever possible and I am proud of seeing adults especially some of them I know as friends working in the area of Autism. Chris Mitchell works tirelessly in raising awareness of Autism in the UK and Damian Santamauro is undertaking his PhD in Brisbane at UQ and currently looking at schools as part of his research where there are persons on the Autism Spectrum. For all of us obtaining support and trying to raise more awareness can often be a very frustrating and slow task but we all support one another in trying to remain optimistic

I would encourage any adults in Brisbane to visit the UQ Aspergers@UQ adult group. This group meets on the 2nd and 4th Friday of the month at 1.30pm at Merlos Cafe at UQ. We just have coffee and discuss how we are getting on and we also have access to counseling now as adults on the Autism Spectrum can visit the UQ Psychology Clinic which provides counseling and support. So why not come a long. For more information please visit my website for more information about how to contact me.

Aspergers@UQ

Today the meeting at the University of Queensland Asperger@UQ was very productive. I met with Damian who is doing his PhD and another Aspie, Sam at Merlos Cafe. Despite meeting for approximately 1 hour and a half, we came away from the meeting feeling a sense of support in that we could share our experiences and obtain support when dealing with Asperger Syndrome.

It is good to know that the University of Queensland now has a Psychology Clinic which provides support for adults on the Autism Spectrum. You don't have to belong to the University of Queensland to attend as a staff or student but simply double clicking on the link above on the title of this post can provide you with more information. At the meeting we discussed the following

1. The need for more services and support for adults
2. A support group for adults in Brisbane not just for UQ but for adults in Brisbane
3. Damian's PhD into approaching schools regarding the Autism Spectrum in adolescents
4. Other issues concerning adults

It would be good if UQ could have an alliance with Trinity College in Dublin with the Asperger Adults group there.

What we encourage or want is for more adults on the Autism Spectrum to visit our meetings which are the second and forth Friday of the month. I will be working with Damian to ensure that we find the needs to allow the group to support adults but for now we are all happy in that we can share our own experiences in a supportive and non threatening environment. We hope to see more adults attend our meetings to obtain support in a non threatening environment and to also obtain services fro UQ Psychology Clinic in counseling and eventual support group which may provide boards games i.e scrabble, chess etc.

If only sometimes people could be just a little more diplomatic

It seems that most of the time nobody has anything to do with you until you cause or create some kind of issue. Rather than be abrasive and make you feel like you are 2cm tall, just a simple explanation would go a long way to make things a little clearer. One of the biggest problems in Australia society is that people do not communicate enough or communication remains confused or unclear.

I think Australia has a disgraceful mental health record. Society simply refuses to assist those most in need and often rather than medicating the problem, a solution may be simply a better means of counseling and support. People in Australian society do not get that by being or responding harshly to someone on the Autism Spectrum can make a person with Autism feel threatened or worse case scenario bullied. I am not medically trained nor am I professionally qualified to give advice but surely just taking the time to explain an issue or a scenario would be far better than to respond in an abrupt or abrasive manner?

I find the Australian blokey image not very accommodating to me as an Aspie personally. I find the prove my ego or be in with the boys just a total waste of time and energy. I simply find it a deep routed inferiority complex and one which is personally irritating. I also find conformity within this stereo type very much pressuring and should I not conform I either confront ridicule or in the worst case scenario a feeling of being bullied. The scarey thing is that women also seem to be more competitive nowadays as well. Perhaps a move to an Eastern European country doesn't seem like a bad idea after all!

The reason I write this blog is I personally need a voice to canvas how I truly feel. I personally struggle with conversation and have worked hard to be careful with being naive, especially to those who may be predators. Until necessary services are made available to people who experience mental health issues and Autism, then society is going to go on remaining ignorant of the background behind the scene struggles of people who have unseen disabilities. I seem to hear from people when I create issues but am never warned or advised of such issues before they become a problem. Communication with persons on the Autism Spectrum needs to be improved, especially the case with siblings and some people who call themselves friends. I exist in a world which I find often or mostly very confusing and I just find if people are abrasive and short tempered then it only provokes and raises my anxiety levels. If only I did not have to experience anymore crap in my life to have it all repeat all over again.

Australia needs to get serious with mental health and improved services for people with disabilities for at present things are not looking too good. I am the first to admit I am far from perfect and no I am not putting myself down I am being bluntly honest. Yes I do need to think positively but I need counseling to help me and if you walked in my shoes when I was younger then surely you would admire where I am today. For heavens sake please try and understand before it is too late and a person becomes depressed or more seriously takes further drastic steps. All it takes is for someone to listen and for people to not remain as wooden, and lacking empathy in the loss of community which is what I see today. Also with this me society a lot of us just find it too taxing to keep up and we try our best to make the most of our lives. I am also tired of people who are envious of me. Would you like me to show you a book of where I got to today? Would you like me to explain in detail my life's story before you decide to make a judgement? People really need to understand more and if I am militant and self destructing then so be it as I am doing the best I can with the cognitive wiring that exists in my mind.

Aspie suffocation Syndrome

As an Aspie I find Australia and New Zealand at a great disadvantage in terms of geography. This is because people here and Australia itself is so isolated. Unlike Europe where there is more cultural and closeness proximity, Australia seems to be more of a lizard type of environment.

Yesterday I attended a Yoga Workshop and found the procedure a little to hierarchical as everyone was asked to fill in a sheet of attendance. When you don't have a pen nor somewhere to write on the sheet, it can be a bit difficult to fill the stupid thing in when you are supposed to be attending a relaxation exercise. Despite the Instructor being German, I found myself thinking I couldn't be bothered filling this stupid sheet of paper in so can you please start with the exercises? The instructor said afterward you should have filled this in, you should do it now! I felt like saying I am not in a bootcamp nor am I a child who has to be told what I am supposed to do. I finished kindergarten about 35 years ago. Anyhow, I found the lady next to me a bit close minded. She apparently joked about my smelly shoes and some other gossip when I felt like saying "Lady are you at all interested in the program we are doing here today rather than be wondering about my shoes and commenting and not knowing whether you are joking or not"? One of the things that sets Australia apart from other countries is that its geographical isolation tends to make people defensive. People are more critical of comments made here than taking on board suggestions. For instance if you make a comment about Australia's obsession with sport, then you are told 'mate what's wrong with you, you shouldn't knock Aussies who are the world's finest Rugby players". I mean is there nothing else beside sport in the Australian nation?

As an Aspie I find it suffocating trying to relate to the majority of people in Australia. I just don't know what it is but people just don't seem to think deeply. I also find the isolation in Australia making Australia 3 steps slow than the rest of the world. I often feel like I am suffocating when I have been fortunate to have traveled and then talk to someone within a brief closed questioned conversation as to why such and such did this or that. It is often frustrating trying to share knowledge or ask questions as people just seem to respond in a very limited way. In other words the art of conversation here tends to be somewhat frustrating.

One of the things Australia needs to do and has done well in has to bring in other nationalities. Such people bring with them experiences from their own countries. For instance German people seem very industrious and methodical and some European people are very warm and friendly. Compared to the bogan, open minded people make you feel human and less defensive. Also some Australian accents seem to scare you away as they sound so much like crows on a branch.

If given the opportunity Australians should travel more as I think they are very insular to the world around them. When traveling abroad a person broadens their knowledge base and it also helps to reinforce a person's own identity. As an Aspie I find travel a great way to overcome suffocation syndrome but I find myself constantly frustrating by a society which seems to be resistant to awareness and intellectual curiosity. Working in a university allows me to be someone eccentric but when I drive on Brisbane's crap roads I feel a sense of tension and frustration. Quite honestly I feel like kicking some buts to improve infrastructure and provide a better road base to the crappy roads we have here!

Ask yourself is it the lack of intellectual curiosity that causes Aspies to become introspective and withdrawn? Also does the resistance make it hard for an Aspie to be understood and accepted within main stream culture? I think Aspie men are also treated like crap because we do not exhibit the same qualities as others. Well in my case I am not ego driven, competitive, brag on about my so called qualities, and hit on women at every available opportunity. Aspies have different cognitive wiring so people please understand this rather than trying to conform us for from personal experience it just makes you feel depressed. I am happy being Aspie and I don't see why others have a problem with it and why I should have to suffer Leper Syndrome.

Breathing exercises

I attending a Yoga session after work today. This Yoga session was interesting for it described how we often don't breath properly and as a result we are more stressed and tend to have high anxiety levels. Apparently if one or both of our nostrils are partially blocked then this can have an affect on our thinking and the hemispheres of our brain. Now I know some of you may be cynical and not want to think more about what I am saying, but stress and anxiety are fueled by shallow breathing. As an Aspie shallow breathing has some negative consequences in that it can make me very anxious and affect my sleep patterns etc.

A lot of Aspies seem to have sleep issues. Because our brains turn over and obsess about things we cannot find the switch to turn off this process. So instead we have to look into strategies. I was speaking with one Aspie today and he is unable to drink milk or when it is warmed as it affects him. I also know another Aspie who tries to exercise to reduce his anxiety levels. He finds anti depressants are not Aspie friendly to him so he chooses exercise instead. He also has sleep issues but he gets by as best he can.

I used to have sleep issues and sometimes I try to help other Aspies with their sleep issues by suggesting advice and I am not always aware of boundaries. For instance I asked an Aspie recently about does he have mental health issues and his response was "What's my mental health got to do with you?" I feel it is sad in a world where adults have to rely on their own coping strategies to the best of their ability. I think sadly for some adults that they know the lack of services available are a reality and they may be cynical of things changing. I know personally all to well my own mental health issues when I worked in a traineeship some years back where I was being pushed to perform to my maximum with the result being a vicious cycle of sleep deprivation or performance issues. Disclosure of diagnosis is a personal decision from adult to adult but in my own situation I feel it is best my employer know and they try to make allowances where they can. I have known of some Aspies being refused meal breaks, recreation leave and even support within the workplace to cause them to cope, have other difficulties or end up resigning out of frustration. It can be very difficult.

Breathing exercises can always be difficult and as an Aspie I find anxiety can hijack my thought processes at times. When I worked full time some years back I was having severe anxiety. I tried going to the bathroom to try techniques for relaxation and found I was self concious of how long I was in the bathroom as I needed to get back to work and I also realised that being at my work station, distractions would get in the way of me trying relaxation techniques. I now cope as best I can and feel that by writing books, and connecting with other adults on the Autism Spectrum seems to be one way to go. Aspies are like our own culture. We think differently and we need relaxation techniques to help us. Meditation, massage and other techniques can alleviate anxiety in ourselves to some degree. I have included a youtube video with some Yoga for the benefit of others if they so choose.