I am currently watching and observing the work of Autism Works very closely. I am also hoping that Stephen Hughes who works in a specialised area of Information Technology will also be soon visiting Australia. Stephen is finding it difficult to obtain leave from his employer to visit Australia and like other adults on the Autism Spectrum, he is affected by social isolation and a lack of services.
I talk regularly with both Peter MacDonald and Chris Mitchell from Autism Works. Autism Works has a Facebook page and as they rely on many sources of raising awareness, they can be found on Facebook by double clicking the above link. Your support and assistance will help them with their bid for further funding and start the ball rolling with employing more adults on the Autism Spectrum within employment.
I have now donated some of my books to the State Library of New South Wales, the State Library of California in the USA and the Ipswich City Council Library here in Australia. My book is starting to become more widespread slowly and I also have the book advertised on ebay. I can only do my best to help spread the message about Autism.
Australia is very slow with software testing and I have repeatedly tried to make contact with one of the key players concerned but to no avail. Hopefully some positive developments will occur in Melbourne and where to next remains a difficult question. At the moment all we can do is keep an eye on Autism Works and as much support as possible in assisting them obtain necessary funding would really help them. Good work Peter and Chris and we look forward to more updates soon!
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Why aren't people interested?
I find myself constantly thinking about things and the world around me. When I visit a historical site, read or watch something on TV I find myself totally interested and asking questions and cannot understand why other people are not the same?
People seem so tunnel visioned in the world around them. They wear blinkers and find constant distractions rather than deal with realities or responsibilities. For instance when you see someone not doing what you may assume to be the right thing, people just seem to accept it and not let it bother them. For instance if at a bbq the sausages are dropped on the ground and get dirt all over them, surely someone would think or know what to do rather than just dump them on the plate. This being a small example.
Tonight I spoke with Chris Mitchell. I have known Chris since 1999 and Chris seems to have a head's start in some areas of his life. He seems to be building up a social life and getting more speaking engagements and seems not really interested in keeping in touch anymore. Whereas he once visited well actually 3 times visited Australia, he seems to have little interest in returning. I guess times have changed. Keeping friends and communicating seems to be getting a lot harder nowadays and perhaps I am old fashioned in my beliefs?
Perhaps I should have lived in the 1950's or something? I just find people don't think often and they shirk responsibility. Nobody seems to have time to listen to anyone anymore and the reason why the world is so screwed up is that half of the world's problems could be avoided if only people had the time to listen. Before someone becomes down or depressed or feels lonely, it is just a matter of a phone call but times have changed. Neighbourhoods are surrounded by high fences and people only say hello and goodbye even in the odd chance if you see them.
As I approach 40 I feel somewhat nervous about my life. I know I am growing older and in my phone conversation with Professor Attwood, I mentioned how I seem to be living more on emotion more so than in reality. I often feel like I am pushing the envelope and surrounded by people who are strangers and I am unable to connect with them. I feel it my responsibility to ensure my health remains good. Chris mentions the need to live for the present and this seems to be helping him. His strategies may be useful to other adults on the Autism Spectrum and I wish Chris well with his journey ahead. Chris is younger than I am also which makes I guess a big difference also. If only people were more intellectually curious on the whole and I didn't feel so frustrated as to why people show as little interest in something which I find intellectually stimulating.
People seem so tunnel visioned in the world around them. They wear blinkers and find constant distractions rather than deal with realities or responsibilities. For instance when you see someone not doing what you may assume to be the right thing, people just seem to accept it and not let it bother them. For instance if at a bbq the sausages are dropped on the ground and get dirt all over them, surely someone would think or know what to do rather than just dump them on the plate. This being a small example.
Tonight I spoke with Chris Mitchell. I have known Chris since 1999 and Chris seems to have a head's start in some areas of his life. He seems to be building up a social life and getting more speaking engagements and seems not really interested in keeping in touch anymore. Whereas he once visited well actually 3 times visited Australia, he seems to have little interest in returning. I guess times have changed. Keeping friends and communicating seems to be getting a lot harder nowadays and perhaps I am old fashioned in my beliefs?
Perhaps I should have lived in the 1950's or something? I just find people don't think often and they shirk responsibility. Nobody seems to have time to listen to anyone anymore and the reason why the world is so screwed up is that half of the world's problems could be avoided if only people had the time to listen. Before someone becomes down or depressed or feels lonely, it is just a matter of a phone call but times have changed. Neighbourhoods are surrounded by high fences and people only say hello and goodbye even in the odd chance if you see them.
As I approach 40 I feel somewhat nervous about my life. I know I am growing older and in my phone conversation with Professor Attwood, I mentioned how I seem to be living more on emotion more so than in reality. I often feel like I am pushing the envelope and surrounded by people who are strangers and I am unable to connect with them. I feel it my responsibility to ensure my health remains good. Chris mentions the need to live for the present and this seems to be helping him. His strategies may be useful to other adults on the Autism Spectrum and I wish Chris well with his journey ahead. Chris is younger than I am also which makes I guess a big difference also. If only people were more intellectually curious on the whole and I didn't feel so frustrated as to why people show as little interest in something which I find intellectually stimulating.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Standing up to bullies
One of the biggest difficulties for a person on the Autism Spectrum is standing up to bullies. I think some people, especially those who may be unhappy with a part of their lives or who may exhibit a dominating personality tend to want to find some way to vent their anger and frustration. Unfortunately an Aspie is a prime target as usually our low self esteem puts us in a disadvantage. It can often be difficult to stand up to a potential bully or a stronger personality because an Aspie suffers from anxiety in most incidents or more sadly just thinks that bullying is something that they have to deal with alone. It can be difficult to know how to deal with bullying or the behaviours of a bully and often a solution can be to become stronger by building what I describe as a bullying shield.
Bullying in the workplace unfortunately can often be hard for anyone to deal with especially an Aspie. The work environment is not escapable and if there are not the mechanisms in place to deal with it, the Aspie or person bullied just tries their best to cope often with serious mental health issues or in worst incidents a means of resorting to medication or some other coping strategy.
Bullying severely cripples the self esteem of the person receiving it. It can cause stress and more sadly a further lowering of self esteem and can also make the person receiving the bullying sick. As an Aspie I have experienced a lot of bullying just by being and thinking differently. A person who bullies may not be happy within themselves and may feel that the only way to release the frustration is to take it out on someone else who has not as strong a personality. I think NT's for instance may have better coping strategies in relation to bullying but for an Aspie the lack of social networks and our inability to communicate and express ourselves to others is far more difficult.
The only way to stand up to bullies is to continue to report their behaviour until someone eventually listens! Nobody has to endure bullying and to have to put up with it and Aspies are no exception. The behaviour has to be continually monitored until it is resolved and in workplaces a far more effective approach in controlling bullying has to occur. For Aspies bullying can be crippling and can seriously escalate anxiety and mental health issues. Unfortunately for an Aspie also being naive and not always knowing with our different cognitive wiring how to deal with difficult situations, bullying can be a lot harder to deal with. What can also be sad is that an Aspie may lose hope in dealing with other people because the action of the bully can seriously cripple the means of being able to communicate and trust other people. In my case bullying was just a part of life when I was younger and there was no way to escape it!
Bullying in the workplace unfortunately can often be hard for anyone to deal with especially an Aspie. The work environment is not escapable and if there are not the mechanisms in place to deal with it, the Aspie or person bullied just tries their best to cope often with serious mental health issues or in worst incidents a means of resorting to medication or some other coping strategy.
Bullying severely cripples the self esteem of the person receiving it. It can cause stress and more sadly a further lowering of self esteem and can also make the person receiving the bullying sick. As an Aspie I have experienced a lot of bullying just by being and thinking differently. A person who bullies may not be happy within themselves and may feel that the only way to release the frustration is to take it out on someone else who has not as strong a personality. I think NT's for instance may have better coping strategies in relation to bullying but for an Aspie the lack of social networks and our inability to communicate and express ourselves to others is far more difficult.
The only way to stand up to bullies is to continue to report their behaviour until someone eventually listens! Nobody has to endure bullying and to have to put up with it and Aspies are no exception. The behaviour has to be continually monitored until it is resolved and in workplaces a far more effective approach in controlling bullying has to occur. For Aspies bullying can be crippling and can seriously escalate anxiety and mental health issues. Unfortunately for an Aspie also being naive and not always knowing with our different cognitive wiring how to deal with difficult situations, bullying can be a lot harder to deal with. What can also be sad is that an Aspie may lose hope in dealing with other people because the action of the bully can seriously cripple the means of being able to communicate and trust other people. In my case bullying was just a part of life when I was younger and there was no way to escape it!
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Being an Aspie in an NT body
I have received remarks sometimes. You are very good looking or you look like everyone else and I wonder does this make it harder for me as an Aspie? I think for higher functioning Aspies that look like NT's, it is harder to actually find support and understanding from those around you. I may exist in an NT body but my mindset is Aspie and my way of thinking is differently wired. I find NT's try too hard to change Aspies and this only adds to pressure and a feeling of frustration, depression and confusion.
What is wrong with being Aspie? Most of the adults in the Asperger community like the term "Aspie" as it is something that we can cling to but not use as a label. Why does the American DSM V want to change and destroy something that provides us Aspies with a sense of identity. We are like Martians on another planet and we are great people but we have a few difficulties which really don't make us bad people. Aspies are actually very good people if they are provided a chance to be seen and heard. We can be very loyal once we become friends with you but often the fast paced life makes it difficult for you to get to know us properly.
I know a lot of Aspies from around the world. They are starting to feel a sense of ease now that they know they are not alone. There are other adults out there and it is a great feeling of sense worth to connect with other Aspies.
Can people try and understand us as Aspies and stop trying to change us. We just want to be better understood. So even though we exist in NT bodies does not always mean that we think and act the same way you do and if we don't you ignore or not want to have anything to do with us. Please give us a chance rather than remaining in ignorance and fear.
What is wrong with being Aspie? Most of the adults in the Asperger community like the term "Aspie" as it is something that we can cling to but not use as a label. Why does the American DSM V want to change and destroy something that provides us Aspies with a sense of identity. We are like Martians on another planet and we are great people but we have a few difficulties which really don't make us bad people. Aspies are actually very good people if they are provided a chance to be seen and heard. We can be very loyal once we become friends with you but often the fast paced life makes it difficult for you to get to know us properly.
I know a lot of Aspies from around the world. They are starting to feel a sense of ease now that they know they are not alone. There are other adults out there and it is a great feeling of sense worth to connect with other Aspies.
Can people try and understand us as Aspies and stop trying to change us. We just want to be better understood. So even though we exist in NT bodies does not always mean that we think and act the same way you do and if we don't you ignore or not want to have anything to do with us. Please give us a chance rather than remaining in ignorance and fear.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Having an Asperger Mindset
Being in my late 30's I find that having an Asperger Mindset puts me at odds with and thinking differently to those around me. I find at times obsessions can be difficult to control and certain levels of intensity. In other words just simply being patient can often be a big task!
I tend to see the world in black and white and I find the gray areas very confusing. People don't always say what they mean and I am very much confused when people do, act or say things which I just find it hard to get or understand. At times I struggle working out whether a person is being serious or whether they are having a joke and at times I find myself being made to feel inferior by simply asking if the person was joking. As I spend a great deal of mental energy in figuring out the world around me, much of my mental process is 80% on problem solving and 20% on other matters.
I am frustrated by people who are ignorant and just simply don't take the time nor the energy to simply understand rather than be more so critical and try and make me think and act like them. This tribal mentality is often overwhelming and at times I just do not feel human. I seem to be existing more so on emotion and mental energy than more so knowing who I am as a person. I am also very introspective and I have had people make very cruel comments such as, "I don't think Garry is capable of showing emotion or I don't think he has the capacity to be normal". Can you imagine how such comments make me feel as a person? Dr Tony Attwood describes Aspies as having empathy and not lacking it. There needs to be more awareness out there to prevent such negative comments from being said and directed towards Aspies.
I struggle with friendships as I often do not know what is involved in friendship and because I can become obsessed in making friends this can be misconstrued as either being homosexual, intense or pushing people away. It mainly is a problem as relating to a person is just so confusing. You struggle to know what a person is saying or meaning and more importantly what their motives are etc. I also find relationships just too difficult. Either I have been on the rare occasions hit on to experience intensity myself or simply there just is not the channel of communication available for an Aspie male to get to know a female and for this to happen slowly. Often the expectations are too high and the whole thing just falls apart even before it has a chance to begin. I find with ignorant people that their ignorance is something I cannot take personally. I just have to deflect it and know that either they will change or never bother to try. I also find going out to places not very comfortable as I just find all the mechanisms around me can often cause me to feel anxious. The sounds, the hierarchy and other mechanisms just make it all seem to overwhelming. I think this is why as an Aspie I spend vast periods of my time in my own company. Traveling is a good release but sooner or later I have to come back to reality. Just having someone to talk to who can listen, understand and provide some useful advice would be great. As Professor McGorry says and I agree with him, mental health is a big issue in Australia and more needs to be done about it.
I also try and help other Aspies and can become very anxious in the process. In the past just trying to think and help other Aspies out has caused me to experience very heightened levels of anxiety. I remember a friend on the Autism Spectrum informing me about Genieve Edmonds a female on the Autism Spectrum. She wrote a lot of books and tried to help other Aspies and was experiencing very high levels of anxiety and could no longer cope and sadly took her own life as a result. If only people around her could understand from the non Autistic community!?? The problem with obsessions also is that they tend to hijack your brain and thinking and interfere with other things which you do. Therapy is needed and more access to adult support groups. I will continue to lobby for services where I can!
I tend to see the world in black and white and I find the gray areas very confusing. People don't always say what they mean and I am very much confused when people do, act or say things which I just find it hard to get or understand. At times I struggle working out whether a person is being serious or whether they are having a joke and at times I find myself being made to feel inferior by simply asking if the person was joking. As I spend a great deal of mental energy in figuring out the world around me, much of my mental process is 80% on problem solving and 20% on other matters.
I am frustrated by people who are ignorant and just simply don't take the time nor the energy to simply understand rather than be more so critical and try and make me think and act like them. This tribal mentality is often overwhelming and at times I just do not feel human. I seem to be existing more so on emotion and mental energy than more so knowing who I am as a person. I am also very introspective and I have had people make very cruel comments such as, "I don't think Garry is capable of showing emotion or I don't think he has the capacity to be normal". Can you imagine how such comments make me feel as a person? Dr Tony Attwood describes Aspies as having empathy and not lacking it. There needs to be more awareness out there to prevent such negative comments from being said and directed towards Aspies.
I struggle with friendships as I often do not know what is involved in friendship and because I can become obsessed in making friends this can be misconstrued as either being homosexual, intense or pushing people away. It mainly is a problem as relating to a person is just so confusing. You struggle to know what a person is saying or meaning and more importantly what their motives are etc. I also find relationships just too difficult. Either I have been on the rare occasions hit on to experience intensity myself or simply there just is not the channel of communication available for an Aspie male to get to know a female and for this to happen slowly. Often the expectations are too high and the whole thing just falls apart even before it has a chance to begin. I find with ignorant people that their ignorance is something I cannot take personally. I just have to deflect it and know that either they will change or never bother to try. I also find going out to places not very comfortable as I just find all the mechanisms around me can often cause me to feel anxious. The sounds, the hierarchy and other mechanisms just make it all seem to overwhelming. I think this is why as an Aspie I spend vast periods of my time in my own company. Traveling is a good release but sooner or later I have to come back to reality. Just having someone to talk to who can listen, understand and provide some useful advice would be great. As Professor McGorry says and I agree with him, mental health is a big issue in Australia and more needs to be done about it.
I also try and help other Aspies and can become very anxious in the process. In the past just trying to think and help other Aspies out has caused me to experience very heightened levels of anxiety. I remember a friend on the Autism Spectrum informing me about Genieve Edmonds a female on the Autism Spectrum. She wrote a lot of books and tried to help other Aspies and was experiencing very high levels of anxiety and could no longer cope and sadly took her own life as a result. If only people around her could understand from the non Autistic community!?? The problem with obsessions also is that they tend to hijack your brain and thinking and interfere with other things which you do. Therapy is needed and more access to adult support groups. I will continue to lobby for services where I can!
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Support for adult services
This afternoon I had a counseling session at the University of Queensland Department of Psychology Clinic. I found this meeting productive for not only did I mention the frustration I have with the lack of services but also the fact that my sessions will now be recorded. I also provided input into ways of improving awareness so that the university can understand better how to implement services for adults on the Autism Spectrum.
One of the things I discussed is the need for an adult group in Brisbane to meet at the University of Queensland. This may be looked into. The adult group would focus on support, discussions and run classes to deal with anxiety and stress related issues. It is just something I proposed but whether or not it gets off the ground will be something that remains to be seen.
As an adult one of the main problems I find is the lack of support to overcome social isolation. There isn't always someone to talk to, to discuss strategies and more importantly difficulties and issues that I may confront. I think for me personally that an adult support group on campus would be a means of assisting with some of the social isolation and ignorance that I seem to confront when trying to relate to the world around me. Just being told that I need to try harder, that I need to think positively which is some of the comments I receive from people just add to my frustrations. People just don't seem to understand!
I hope that counseling sessions will also assist in formulating strategies to think positively and find useful strategies to further assist with raising awareness. Also attending counseling sessions and more importantly having an adult support group on campus will be able to assist adults who ask me where support is available after diagnosis. I can only try my best.
Some of the issues I confront as an adult are as follows:
1. Anxiety issues
2. Social isolation
3. Feeling frustrated as people just don't understand!
4. Relating to people
5. Cognitive behaviour therapy
I really feel that adults are forgotten about and more importantly adults can assist future generations and provide parents of children with Autism some experience which may prove valuable when going about their day to day lives.
I will keep you posted with updates and I hope that other adults may be able to also benefit from counseling and an adult support group on campus?
One of the things I discussed is the need for an adult group in Brisbane to meet at the University of Queensland. This may be looked into. The adult group would focus on support, discussions and run classes to deal with anxiety and stress related issues. It is just something I proposed but whether or not it gets off the ground will be something that remains to be seen.
As an adult one of the main problems I find is the lack of support to overcome social isolation. There isn't always someone to talk to, to discuss strategies and more importantly difficulties and issues that I may confront. I think for me personally that an adult support group on campus would be a means of assisting with some of the social isolation and ignorance that I seem to confront when trying to relate to the world around me. Just being told that I need to try harder, that I need to think positively which is some of the comments I receive from people just add to my frustrations. People just don't seem to understand!
I hope that counseling sessions will also assist in formulating strategies to think positively and find useful strategies to further assist with raising awareness. Also attending counseling sessions and more importantly having an adult support group on campus will be able to assist adults who ask me where support is available after diagnosis. I can only try my best.
Some of the issues I confront as an adult are as follows:
1. Anxiety issues
2. Social isolation
3. Feeling frustrated as people just don't understand!
4. Relating to people
5. Cognitive behaviour therapy
I really feel that adults are forgotten about and more importantly adults can assist future generations and provide parents of children with Autism some experience which may prove valuable when going about their day to day lives.
I will keep you posted with updates and I hope that other adults may be able to also benefit from counseling and an adult support group on campus?
Aspies and Authority in the workplace
Why as an Aspie is hierarchy and bureaucracy so difficult? As an Aspie I find that I have to rely on my intelligence to work out the logic of both these mechanisms and find that often they may be used against Aspies as Aspies are literal and more than often intelligent. In some instances an Aspie can hold a wealth of knowledge which literally may scare or make other people uncomfortable. As we as Aspies have poor or difficulty with social skills the very nature of Authority etc can be used against us. NT's subconsciously may have the poor within the authority sense thus precluding the Aspie from understanding or adhering to protocol or authority etc
In the workplace for instance I know a fair but about library procedure and am keen to learn more but the process makes learning further tasks virtually impossible. I am quite simply doing menial work and yet I am a thinking person. I am able to store vast amounts of knowledge and find myself questioning things around me a lot. Rather than being able to implement such skills, I am held back mainly by an inability to read social skills and the necessary procedures in order to often play the NT games that go on.
The interview process and selection criteria from what I see as judged primarily on a person's ability to perform socially at an interview. However the main difficulty seems to be in relation to performance. How well will the person do once they have succeeded in the interview to carry out the job and to be consistent in optimum performance? Is the interview process really an accurate reflection on a person's abilities?
I think Aspies are able to do a great deal more within society but are held back because of fear. People are afraid of the knowledge and application that an Aspie can provide and so the system often works against us. When people say "Oh you need to think more positive or you put yourself down". Such people do not realise that Aspies are not wired to think like this. I think we are more practical thinkers more so than salesmen. What I am saying is that Aspies tend to struggle at 'bullshitting' because it is not a trait that comes natural to us. We prefer to be honest, think literally and learn tasks which may be expected of us. The interview process and selection process therefore can work against the Aspie because of the very focus on performance on the day.
Aspies also tend and again speaking from personal experience do not need a lot of supervision and tend to work better on their own. How then can workplaces be adapted to cater for such requirements?
In the workplace for instance I know a fair but about library procedure and am keen to learn more but the process makes learning further tasks virtually impossible. I am quite simply doing menial work and yet I am a thinking person. I am able to store vast amounts of knowledge and find myself questioning things around me a lot. Rather than being able to implement such skills, I am held back mainly by an inability to read social skills and the necessary procedures in order to often play the NT games that go on.
The interview process and selection criteria from what I see as judged primarily on a person's ability to perform socially at an interview. However the main difficulty seems to be in relation to performance. How well will the person do once they have succeeded in the interview to carry out the job and to be consistent in optimum performance? Is the interview process really an accurate reflection on a person's abilities?
I think Aspies are able to do a great deal more within society but are held back because of fear. People are afraid of the knowledge and application that an Aspie can provide and so the system often works against us. When people say "Oh you need to think more positive or you put yourself down". Such people do not realise that Aspies are not wired to think like this. I think we are more practical thinkers more so than salesmen. What I am saying is that Aspies tend to struggle at 'bullshitting' because it is not a trait that comes natural to us. We prefer to be honest, think literally and learn tasks which may be expected of us. The interview process and selection process therefore can work against the Aspie because of the very focus on performance on the day.
Aspies also tend and again speaking from personal experience do not need a lot of supervision and tend to work better on their own. How then can workplaces be adapted to cater for such requirements?
Monday, July 4, 2011
Blog updates
Today has been a somewhat busy day. It is mild now but apparently the rest of the week is going to be colder. This morning I found myself coughing a lot and I was not sure why. I guess it may have been something to do with the Snore Eze which I take to help control snoring and provide a better night's sleep.
Things are slowly getting back to normal upon my return to Australia. I ask myself how lucky do people know they are in this country? You can walk outside and see the sunshine, drive your car to anywhere nearby, and be grateful that your health is in good order.
Today some other staff member applied for the Team Leader's position at work. Despite the lengthy interview process, they are still waiting to know their outcome. I believe they are doing a great job and I hope that things work out for them. Things are quiet at the moment and I am starting to be grateful that at least I have a job.
I enjoy this time of year. The fact it can be somewhat cold provides some bliss compared to the terrible humidity of summer. It is amazing that everyday the earth revolves around the sun and we all get older. We live on a beautiful earth despite our hangups and worries.
Tomorrow I am going to see if I can get some counseling sessions at UQ to help me cope better. I just find it difficult to not always have someone to talk to and help me with some of the frustrations and issues I have with people and understanding society in general. I just hope that these can help? I am also reading about Spanish, North African and Portuguese history. I want to know more about the Moor invasion and especially the influence of cultural change on Spanish music. Tomorrow morning I am off to the gym also to do some cardiovascular work.
Things are slowly getting back to normal upon my return to Australia. I ask myself how lucky do people know they are in this country? You can walk outside and see the sunshine, drive your car to anywhere nearby, and be grateful that your health is in good order.
Today some other staff member applied for the Team Leader's position at work. Despite the lengthy interview process, they are still waiting to know their outcome. I believe they are doing a great job and I hope that things work out for them. Things are quiet at the moment and I am starting to be grateful that at least I have a job.
I enjoy this time of year. The fact it can be somewhat cold provides some bliss compared to the terrible humidity of summer. It is amazing that everyday the earth revolves around the sun and we all get older. We live on a beautiful earth despite our hangups and worries.
Tomorrow I am going to see if I can get some counseling sessions at UQ to help me cope better. I just find it difficult to not always have someone to talk to and help me with some of the frustrations and issues I have with people and understanding society in general. I just hope that these can help? I am also reading about Spanish, North African and Portuguese history. I want to know more about the Moor invasion and especially the influence of cultural change on Spanish music. Tomorrow morning I am off to the gym also to do some cardiovascular work.
Australia must come on board with Autism Support!
I am frustrated with the lagging of Australia behind the rest of the world in terms of support and services for persons on the Autism Spectrum. Even though things are slowly, slowly improving, I still think attitudes and awareness need to change.
Australia needs to vastly improve its track record of understanding the needs of any person with a disability and although I stand up for Autism, I simply am frustrated by governments, institutions and education authorities simply not doing enough. A vast improvement is needed across the board to provide support in terms of placing adults on the Autism Spectrum into employment and more importantly for schools to assist with early intervention and support. It is a slow and ongoing process but things need to happen fast.
I was recently criticized for being 'militant'. I found such a remark as uncalled for because what I am trying to do is implement change. At times it is frustrating when other people simply just do not understand and it is not their fault, it is just that more information and awareness needs to be spread across the Australian continent to greatly improve awareness. If the Autism Spectrum is seen as an epidemic it must not be ignored. Future children will become adults and politicians have to stop 'mud slinging' and take action. I am disappointed by the lack of input from both the prime minister and leader of the opposition in Australia. They seem largely disinterested in the issues concerning Autism and it feels like an annoyance to have to vote for them.
The Autism community do not ask for people to change but more so to understand. Standing up as an advocate like I do does at times place you in the firing line but quite personally I don't give a crap what critics have to say. They have their own personal problems and rather than criticise they should assist in raising awareness should they feel it necessary to do so. Again it is a personal decision but the more adults that become advocates of Autism the better. This will only help to bring change. As I get older things become harder and I grow tired of seeing counselors who say, especially at Minds and Hearts "What is your purpose of coming here?" and "What is it you want out of these sessions?". Surely they should be trained to find solutions other than often some form of criticism? I have been disappointed with Minds and Hearts in that as an adult they just really seem to be interested from my own personal experience of what it is like being an adult on the Autism Spectrum. Adults with Autism need to be listened to should they provide help and assistance more so than left in the wilderness. I am now going to see if a counselor at the University of Queensland maybe able to help.
All it takes is for people to listen and for Australia to come on board with Autism. In the above link Autism is described as a disease when in fact it is a disorder. Let us move forward and start to get the message out there!
Australia needs to vastly improve its track record of understanding the needs of any person with a disability and although I stand up for Autism, I simply am frustrated by governments, institutions and education authorities simply not doing enough. A vast improvement is needed across the board to provide support in terms of placing adults on the Autism Spectrum into employment and more importantly for schools to assist with early intervention and support. It is a slow and ongoing process but things need to happen fast.
I was recently criticized for being 'militant'. I found such a remark as uncalled for because what I am trying to do is implement change. At times it is frustrating when other people simply just do not understand and it is not their fault, it is just that more information and awareness needs to be spread across the Australian continent to greatly improve awareness. If the Autism Spectrum is seen as an epidemic it must not be ignored. Future children will become adults and politicians have to stop 'mud slinging' and take action. I am disappointed by the lack of input from both the prime minister and leader of the opposition in Australia. They seem largely disinterested in the issues concerning Autism and it feels like an annoyance to have to vote for them.
The Autism community do not ask for people to change but more so to understand. Standing up as an advocate like I do does at times place you in the firing line but quite personally I don't give a crap what critics have to say. They have their own personal problems and rather than criticise they should assist in raising awareness should they feel it necessary to do so. Again it is a personal decision but the more adults that become advocates of Autism the better. This will only help to bring change. As I get older things become harder and I grow tired of seeing counselors who say, especially at Minds and Hearts "What is your purpose of coming here?" and "What is it you want out of these sessions?". Surely they should be trained to find solutions other than often some form of criticism? I have been disappointed with Minds and Hearts in that as an adult they just really seem to be interested from my own personal experience of what it is like being an adult on the Autism Spectrum. Adults with Autism need to be listened to should they provide help and assistance more so than left in the wilderness. I am now going to see if a counselor at the University of Queensland maybe able to help.
All it takes is for people to listen and for Australia to come on board with Autism. In the above link Autism is described as a disease when in fact it is a disorder. Let us move forward and start to get the message out there!
The few Aspies in employment
I was talking recently with another Aspie about employment. This other Aspie said that holding down a job for anyone on the Autism Spectrum can in itself be a challenge. Not knowing often how to get on with other people, dealing with other work colleagues and relating to authority figures can sometimes be a challenge. In my own situation I have found full time employment just too taxing. I find that dealing with other staff members and more importantly having the mental energy to last a full day somewhat taxing. In the past these factors have caused me to have sleep issues and heightened anxiety. Even working part time can be still difficult and even though I work in a routine based job, it does provide me with some structure which I am used to.
A few months ago my work environment underwent massive restructuring. The supportive line manager I worked under was moved to another section and I was confused as to how the supervisory figures and work environment was changing. These factors alone made me so anxious because I didn't know who I was supposed to ask for advice in relating to jobs I had to carry out. I was experiencing really heightened anxiety and I sent an email to the union representative and carbon copied it to the line manager and other managers saying that I could not cope with the anxiety any longer. I was contacted shortly thereafter with concerns that I was suicidal and that my next of kin needed to be contacted in case I did anything drastic. The HR Department of the university contacted me also and I informed them that they should be made better aware of Asperger Syndrome. I am not sure if this is yet to be followed up but I felt I had to say it. A meeting was called within the university and I was informed of the reporting procedures, changes to the supervisory roles and the reassuring fact that the workplace was aware of AS. Things seem to be getting better now slowly within the workplace restructure. I find I need minimal supervision once I know the work which is expected of me. For instance my work skills usually involve the following or a combination
9.15 - 1.15pm
3, SR / Check In, 4, High Use
4, 3 / Newspapers & Journals,2, Check In
1.15pm - 5.15pm
3, SR / Check In, High Use
4, 3 / Newspapers & Journals, Check In
In the above example the 3 indicates that I am required to do shelving for approximately 1 hour on Level 3, Level 4, or Level 2 as indicated above and then Shelf Read the books on the shelf. The slash indicates a break of 15mins and then I may do the newspapers and journals which is removing the journals marked with the date of archive and removing newspapers more than 2 weeks prior. Check In involves checking the bins for books which are returned and sorted into order. This is done for an hour and it can be combined with shelf checks of books which students have not returned and fines may be issued.
As the job I do involves little interaction I find that I am able to perform but often the difficult aspect is dealing with student behaviour, especially students talking on mobile phones. Also the lift in the library is very slow but it is a change to the bombardment of sensory issues when walking up and down the library stairwell.
When I worked with previous employers other than the parliamentary library which I enjoyed, I found the hierarchy of the work environment difficult. I often locked horns with authority figures or undertook some procedure which was outside the scope of my work duties. For instance when asked to work on the front desk to avoid being around other staff in cubicles I took it upon myself to also validate client service forms and direct calls to the supervisor of the section rather than the generic system of random pick up. I knew that the supervisor would answer the phone but I later got into trouble for transferring calls directly to the supervisor rather than the generic answering system. I also got into trouble with the HR Manager for supposedly moving to another section with the permission of the manager but not her own permission. I also received comments that I was using my diagnosis as an excuse to get away with supposed heavy handedness. I now work part time and cope my best to get through the work which I have to undertake.
Some Aspies exist in work environments where they are controlled and in the worst instances may be exposed to bullying type behaviour. Some are afraid to approach supervisory figures as they may become anxious and more importantly some exist in workplaces which seriously need an awareness of the Autism Spectrum. Not all Aspies are in unpleasant work environments. For instance things are changing where I work and disclosing my diagnosis has helped to protect me against workplace bullying and discrimination or harassment in any form. Although I find promotion very difficult, I at least am grateful that I have a job!
I have often raised the issue of the selection criteria and promotion as working against Aspies. Without an understanding and awareness session provided, this very process can work against the Aspie. Whereas the Aspie needs time to demonstrate their ability the interview process tends to focus on how well the person does on the day. Even though there may be a probation period, employers need to look harder at the applicant's ability more so than how well they may do socially at an interview. Often the wrong person can be chosen because they may have all the social skills but lack the dedication and discipline to carry out their actual job. In the job I do for instance, retention of staff is often difficult. In the past people have left or been promoted because they just cannot concentrate for long periods on shelving books according to the requirements of the Library of Congress Classification System. I have been able to handle working where I am for approximately 6 years now. Also I find that I have some flexibility with leave. I know of some Aspies who simply cannot get a sufficient period of leave in order to have a holiday and some who have supervisors who argue at or bully them. Surely things need to change? What intervention and support can be made available to these Aspies? Disclosure of the Autism Spectrum remains a personal decision but if you want to have a reasonable quality of life and not have the added burden or stress of feeling sick, taking stress leave, being bullied, confronting harassment then disclosure at the interview or with the help of a a disability employment agency may be necessary.
A few months ago my work environment underwent massive restructuring. The supportive line manager I worked under was moved to another section and I was confused as to how the supervisory figures and work environment was changing. These factors alone made me so anxious because I didn't know who I was supposed to ask for advice in relating to jobs I had to carry out. I was experiencing really heightened anxiety and I sent an email to the union representative and carbon copied it to the line manager and other managers saying that I could not cope with the anxiety any longer. I was contacted shortly thereafter with concerns that I was suicidal and that my next of kin needed to be contacted in case I did anything drastic. The HR Department of the university contacted me also and I informed them that they should be made better aware of Asperger Syndrome. I am not sure if this is yet to be followed up but I felt I had to say it. A meeting was called within the university and I was informed of the reporting procedures, changes to the supervisory roles and the reassuring fact that the workplace was aware of AS. Things seem to be getting better now slowly within the workplace restructure. I find I need minimal supervision once I know the work which is expected of me. For instance my work skills usually involve the following or a combination
9.15 - 1.15pm
3, SR / Check In, 4, High Use
4, 3 / Newspapers & Journals,2, Check In
1.15pm - 5.15pm
3, SR / Check In, High Use
4, 3 / Newspapers & Journals, Check In
In the above example the 3 indicates that I am required to do shelving for approximately 1 hour on Level 3, Level 4, or Level 2 as indicated above and then Shelf Read the books on the shelf. The slash indicates a break of 15mins and then I may do the newspapers and journals which is removing the journals marked with the date of archive and removing newspapers more than 2 weeks prior. Check In involves checking the bins for books which are returned and sorted into order. This is done for an hour and it can be combined with shelf checks of books which students have not returned and fines may be issued.
As the job I do involves little interaction I find that I am able to perform but often the difficult aspect is dealing with student behaviour, especially students talking on mobile phones. Also the lift in the library is very slow but it is a change to the bombardment of sensory issues when walking up and down the library stairwell.
When I worked with previous employers other than the parliamentary library which I enjoyed, I found the hierarchy of the work environment difficult. I often locked horns with authority figures or undertook some procedure which was outside the scope of my work duties. For instance when asked to work on the front desk to avoid being around other staff in cubicles I took it upon myself to also validate client service forms and direct calls to the supervisor of the section rather than the generic system of random pick up. I knew that the supervisor would answer the phone but I later got into trouble for transferring calls directly to the supervisor rather than the generic answering system. I also got into trouble with the HR Manager for supposedly moving to another section with the permission of the manager but not her own permission. I also received comments that I was using my diagnosis as an excuse to get away with supposed heavy handedness. I now work part time and cope my best to get through the work which I have to undertake.
Some Aspies exist in work environments where they are controlled and in the worst instances may be exposed to bullying type behaviour. Some are afraid to approach supervisory figures as they may become anxious and more importantly some exist in workplaces which seriously need an awareness of the Autism Spectrum. Not all Aspies are in unpleasant work environments. For instance things are changing where I work and disclosing my diagnosis has helped to protect me against workplace bullying and discrimination or harassment in any form. Although I find promotion very difficult, I at least am grateful that I have a job!
I have often raised the issue of the selection criteria and promotion as working against Aspies. Without an understanding and awareness session provided, this very process can work against the Aspie. Whereas the Aspie needs time to demonstrate their ability the interview process tends to focus on how well the person does on the day. Even though there may be a probation period, employers need to look harder at the applicant's ability more so than how well they may do socially at an interview. Often the wrong person can be chosen because they may have all the social skills but lack the dedication and discipline to carry out their actual job. In the job I do for instance, retention of staff is often difficult. In the past people have left or been promoted because they just cannot concentrate for long periods on shelving books according to the requirements of the Library of Congress Classification System. I have been able to handle working where I am for approximately 6 years now. Also I find that I have some flexibility with leave. I know of some Aspies who simply cannot get a sufficient period of leave in order to have a holiday and some who have supervisors who argue at or bully them. Surely things need to change? What intervention and support can be made available to these Aspies? Disclosure of the Autism Spectrum remains a personal decision but if you want to have a reasonable quality of life and not have the added burden or stress of feeling sick, taking stress leave, being bullied, confronting harassment then disclosure at the interview or with the help of a a disability employment agency may be necessary.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
So much mental energy required and why?
Why is it that when talking to an NT or a group of NT's that mental energy levels almost become depleted? Why also is this worse when contemplating relationships?
It just seems that socialising requires so much mental energy and one feels exhausted within and even more so after the process. Often just being within your own company provides a safe haven but there are times that you also want to be around other people.
I often find when sitting with a crowd of NT's (People not on the Autism Spectrum) that I find I am always on the outer. I just feel like I am observing the socialising process but not a part of it. No matter how hard I try to follow the conversation, I just find myself unable to keep up and maintain the mental energy required in order to be part of the conversation. I find sensory issues become a problem and I start to feel awkward and wonder how I can prepare for a plan of escape.
I get nowhere with relationships or dating and I have virtually almost given up. I am starting to become used to my own company. I don't have any hassles, I can function better but I often find anxiety a real problem. I feel largely self concicious in certain situations and I feel unsafe in loud, noisy or night club environments. I just don't feel I can trust the people and the sensory sounds just drive me into sensory overload or panic. Also my ears start to hurt and my eyes feel like they are being hit by 1000 lightning flashes. All of these just makes me think, solitude is so much better. Nobody can interfere with my space and I don't have to cope the sensory issues and more importantly where uncomfortable clothes that really irritate my functioning.
As an Aspie I constantly look for errors or faults in everything around me. It is like my mindset is driven for perfection. I see flaws in people and people who claim to be friends. I have to use more mental energy to safeguard me from my residual naivety and this makes me increasingly weary of people. For some reason I tend to trust Aspies more and find the social pressures less. It is like we are a community of immigrants on planet earth and yet we remain on the outer with people around us. We look like them but our mindsets think differently.
I need time out from vast energy consumption and when I have to interact I look for buffer zones and ways of recharging my batteries so I can again function where I need to. I also when totally drained mental energy wise tend to slur words and find some levels of function requiring some extra storage of energy just to help get me through. My mindset becomes more literal and I start to psycho analyse even more. Also my body just feels like shutting down and this is the time to be careful of so as to not avoid burn out or meltdown.
People cannot always see what is happening internally but trying to ride the rollercoaster is something to always be aware of and to adjust the brakes where necessary. I ask you why is so much mental energy required?!!
It just seems that socialising requires so much mental energy and one feels exhausted within and even more so after the process. Often just being within your own company provides a safe haven but there are times that you also want to be around other people.
I often find when sitting with a crowd of NT's (People not on the Autism Spectrum) that I find I am always on the outer. I just feel like I am observing the socialising process but not a part of it. No matter how hard I try to follow the conversation, I just find myself unable to keep up and maintain the mental energy required in order to be part of the conversation. I find sensory issues become a problem and I start to feel awkward and wonder how I can prepare for a plan of escape.
I get nowhere with relationships or dating and I have virtually almost given up. I am starting to become used to my own company. I don't have any hassles, I can function better but I often find anxiety a real problem. I feel largely self concicious in certain situations and I feel unsafe in loud, noisy or night club environments. I just don't feel I can trust the people and the sensory sounds just drive me into sensory overload or panic. Also my ears start to hurt and my eyes feel like they are being hit by 1000 lightning flashes. All of these just makes me think, solitude is so much better. Nobody can interfere with my space and I don't have to cope the sensory issues and more importantly where uncomfortable clothes that really irritate my functioning.
As an Aspie I constantly look for errors or faults in everything around me. It is like my mindset is driven for perfection. I see flaws in people and people who claim to be friends. I have to use more mental energy to safeguard me from my residual naivety and this makes me increasingly weary of people. For some reason I tend to trust Aspies more and find the social pressures less. It is like we are a community of immigrants on planet earth and yet we remain on the outer with people around us. We look like them but our mindsets think differently.
I need time out from vast energy consumption and when I have to interact I look for buffer zones and ways of recharging my batteries so I can again function where I need to. I also when totally drained mental energy wise tend to slur words and find some levels of function requiring some extra storage of energy just to help get me through. My mindset becomes more literal and I start to psycho analyse even more. Also my body just feels like shutting down and this is the time to be careful of so as to not avoid burn out or meltdown.
People cannot always see what is happening internally but trying to ride the rollercoaster is something to always be aware of and to adjust the brakes where necessary. I ask you why is so much mental energy required?!!
Aspies and computers
Dr Tony Attwood believes that computers were made by Aspies for Aspies. I agree with him on this. Just contemplate how many Aspies use Facebook and more importantly look at Facebook's creator?
For an Aspie and I am going to mention my personal experience the use of a computer offers the following.
1. An avoidance of face to face and social situations.
2. A means of communicating and not having the added stresses of driving a car or getting to location.
3. Not having to wear annoying clothes that drive you into sensory overload. Jeans for instance are like torture to me and I cannot wear them for I hate the feel of them on my legs
4. Computer interaction is by words with less hidden verbal queues and necessary social essentials.
What are the statistics of Aspies being Facebook users? Well I know a great deal many Aspies on Facebook. What I find unique is their photos often display landscape scenes and usually images that seem rather removed somehow compared to non Austistics. Us Aspies well again I speak for myself seem to have an introspection within our Facebook pages. Also most Aspies seem to be on Facebook chat and often conversations can be stilted or a bit one sided.
If computers were invented by Aspies then are Aspies going to dominate the world somehow? Just imagine how everything is now computerised and who invented the software and more importantly painstakingly took the the time to implement it? Possibly Aspies?? Perhaps computers are an Aspie's way of communicating for we do not need all the stresses of the modern world which seem largely overwhelming and confusing. Ask yourself who invented computers, for what purpose and why? How often does an Aspie spend on a computer compared to an NT? Perhaps the computer revolution is the next step in evolution?
For an Aspie and I am going to mention my personal experience the use of a computer offers the following.
1. An avoidance of face to face and social situations.
2. A means of communicating and not having the added stresses of driving a car or getting to location.
3. Not having to wear annoying clothes that drive you into sensory overload. Jeans for instance are like torture to me and I cannot wear them for I hate the feel of them on my legs
4. Computer interaction is by words with less hidden verbal queues and necessary social essentials.
What are the statistics of Aspies being Facebook users? Well I know a great deal many Aspies on Facebook. What I find unique is their photos often display landscape scenes and usually images that seem rather removed somehow compared to non Austistics. Us Aspies well again I speak for myself seem to have an introspection within our Facebook pages. Also most Aspies seem to be on Facebook chat and often conversations can be stilted or a bit one sided.
If computers were invented by Aspies then are Aspies going to dominate the world somehow? Just imagine how everything is now computerised and who invented the software and more importantly painstakingly took the the time to implement it? Possibly Aspies?? Perhaps computers are an Aspie's way of communicating for we do not need all the stresses of the modern world which seem largely overwhelming and confusing. Ask yourself who invented computers, for what purpose and why? How often does an Aspie spend on a computer compared to an NT? Perhaps the computer revolution is the next step in evolution?
People just come with too many complications
Sometimes the world is so confusing and more importantly people are confusing! Just doing your own thing seems like a good idea for you don't have to worry if a person is not going to show up, be late, forget or bring a long with them a lot of emotional baggage. I just wonder if it is all really worth the effort to try and find friends? Amongst Aspies though I find the majority are easy to get on with but they seem to have a lot of difficulty with executive function or in some instances I find myself totally drained having to do their thinking for them. Across the Autism Spectrum, higher functioning Aspies seem to make good friends but often they seem to have their own difficulties and issues.
I spend a lot of time talking to myself anyhow. At least I hear and receive the answers I want. I don't have to worry about offending other people and I find that when talking to other people, they are never really on the same wave length as I am. In my own solitude I live in my own world and often feel that should I make a friend or enter a relationship that my world then becomes chaotic. All of this unnecessary baggage etc. I have recently come into contact with an Aspie who moved from Ireland to New Zealand. He lives on his own and has his own business. He has a little dog to keep him company and I think he is happy in his own world free of stress and people hassles. One day I would like though to visit the New Zealand Aspies but it would need to be sometime in the future I think. Wellington is about 3 and half hours from Brisbane so I guess something in the future maybe possible?
Ask yourself as an Aspie what can and can you not handle in relation to people? Sometimes they are just too much hassle and bother. Some understand but others just make for a chaotic world.
I spend a lot of time talking to myself anyhow. At least I hear and receive the answers I want. I don't have to worry about offending other people and I find that when talking to other people, they are never really on the same wave length as I am. In my own solitude I live in my own world and often feel that should I make a friend or enter a relationship that my world then becomes chaotic. All of this unnecessary baggage etc. I have recently come into contact with an Aspie who moved from Ireland to New Zealand. He lives on his own and has his own business. He has a little dog to keep him company and I think he is happy in his own world free of stress and people hassles. One day I would like though to visit the New Zealand Aspies but it would need to be sometime in the future I think. Wellington is about 3 and half hours from Brisbane so I guess something in the future maybe possible?
Ask yourself as an Aspie what can and can you not handle in relation to people? Sometimes they are just too much hassle and bother. Some understand but others just make for a chaotic world.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Traveling as a Solo Aspie across the world
I am going to give Cosmos Tours a positive wrap when I have traveled abroad. My first trip with them was in 2008 when I visited both the United States and Canada. Some years back I went to the South Island of New Zealand with a tour group called Connections and I did not enjoy the tour. I had to share with 3 other people and I found this very difficult. Not only was this the problem but the tour guide decided to drink too much alcohol and was unable to do the tour the next day. I did enjoy New Zealand's South Island and was amazed when I visited Christchurch and seeing an enormous tunnel on the South Island. I also wanted to fly by helicopter to the top of Mt Cook to walk on a glacier but unfortunately the weather was bad so the helicopter ride could not go ahead. I managed to see some green rocks also. I went with my parents a few years back and did the North Island of New Zealand and enjoyed this also. New Zealand is a great places and more people and I emphasize Australians need to see it!
In 2008 I wanted to visit America. I flew via New Zealand (Auckland) to arrive in San Francisco after a 12 hour flight. I remember seeing San Francisco as I went through the long process of American customs. It was cold, but it was knew. I remember thinking wow this place is something I have not seen before. Having then arrived at the San Francisco Hotel which was bare as bones, I was unable to stow my luggage and was given a flimsy key on an inch block of wood to take around with me. I wanted to see the Golden Gate Bridge and having walked some metres up a steep street my body was totally fatigued. I approached a coffee shop and went inside. Food was big time. Americans eat big and I wondered now what am I supposed to order? I finally ordered a meal after some time and became confused by tipping. Why do I have to tip when it seems so weird?? Anyhow I had one day and two nights in San Francisco and managed to see the Golden Gate Bridge and discover a local park with you guessed it Eucalypt Trees! Perhaps divine intervention may have occurred again in that a reminder of where I came from was evident? The morning I left San Francisco was dark, distances were in miles and a cranky Italian lady was on the shuttle bus. She was anxious about getting to the airport on time. Having once arrived at the airport myself I was overwhelmed by people and a man from Iran had about 6 suitcases with him. I found myself helping him and almost breaking my arm in the process. The flight to New York was 5 hours and 3 minutes. Across the Rockies and towns that I only could ever once read about. America has houses in the middle, I can see roads compared to desert in Australia! My American and Canadian trip in a nutshell was interesting despite my luggage being delayed and the $55 taxi trip from JFK to Manhattan. I texted a friend and I shuffled papers around in the back of the cab to find the exact location of my hotel. I finally got there and saw the streets of New York, the sounds of sirens and fire trucks. I was far from Australia but it was new and I soaked in the sense of excitement. Next day was to Boston, then to Canada, then back via Niagara Falls. Did an awesome flight over the falls despite the sensory issues that I just tried my hardest to contain. Then after that back to New York visiting the marmalade colour of the American landscape of foliage. Then onto Minnesota for a week's stay and then back to Australia via Las Vegas and out of Los Angeles.
In 2010 I visited Europe and saw many countries but not all. I also visited Spain and Portugal recently. I almost broke my leg in Oporto, Portugal but when I travel I ask for and pay more for the single room supplement. It was scary though almost breaking my leg in Oporto for I may either return to Australia in a wheelchair or worst of all with one leg! I then flew onto England. I caught up with good friends in Newcastle which I would encourage more Australians and New Zealanders to visit more so than London. I went to Edinburgh, Holland and also Ireland. I am able to travel on my own and driving through the streets of Belfast was no easy task either. I was far from Australia and friends in England but I managed to get through with the help of an Aspie to Enniskillen (sorry if misspelled). I then drove around Ireland in 5 days. The GPS broke down just outside of Belfast and I was anxious about getting back to England. I was at Belfast Airport all day virtually with a delayed flight to Newcastle but I got there eventually. Next day back to Australia and then home. Now my head is adjusting while my feet are in the antipodes. Travel is great and more Aspies need to do it. It is a truly cognitive growing experience. I hope more Aspies will be able to travel. I hope to visit Berlin one day and China. I just need to accrue more leave and for now it is just a matter of getting back to Australia and doing the mundane tax return and paying the boring bills. For those of you interested no I could not find the castle in Ireland near Enniskillen called Irvine Castle but at least I was in the territory. Needed someone to help me but being on my own I could only do my best.
Cosmos Tours are worthwhile for Aspies and people want to travel on a budget. Although they are a bit out of town, they provide good tour guides and help you get around a country within a reasonable budget. I would like to travel with some Aspies but unfortunately not many have the opportunity or seem stressed about making the commitment. There is also passport control and the anxiety of handling the airport terminals. It almost knocked me out last time. I hope to write a book one day about traveling as an Aspie but I need people to like this post and large numbers to persuade me to do so.
I also visited Trinity College in Dublin and met Claire who runs the Trinity College Aspie group in Dublin. I also met with David who runs the adult group in Dublin. One day I hope to attend again. I also hope to visit the New Zealand Adult Group and some in the USA and Canada. More visits will happen just a matter of interest.
In 2008 I wanted to visit America. I flew via New Zealand (Auckland) to arrive in San Francisco after a 12 hour flight. I remember seeing San Francisco as I went through the long process of American customs. It was cold, but it was knew. I remember thinking wow this place is something I have not seen before. Having then arrived at the San Francisco Hotel which was bare as bones, I was unable to stow my luggage and was given a flimsy key on an inch block of wood to take around with me. I wanted to see the Golden Gate Bridge and having walked some metres up a steep street my body was totally fatigued. I approached a coffee shop and went inside. Food was big time. Americans eat big and I wondered now what am I supposed to order? I finally ordered a meal after some time and became confused by tipping. Why do I have to tip when it seems so weird?? Anyhow I had one day and two nights in San Francisco and managed to see the Golden Gate Bridge and discover a local park with you guessed it Eucalypt Trees! Perhaps divine intervention may have occurred again in that a reminder of where I came from was evident? The morning I left San Francisco was dark, distances were in miles and a cranky Italian lady was on the shuttle bus. She was anxious about getting to the airport on time. Having once arrived at the airport myself I was overwhelmed by people and a man from Iran had about 6 suitcases with him. I found myself helping him and almost breaking my arm in the process. The flight to New York was 5 hours and 3 minutes. Across the Rockies and towns that I only could ever once read about. America has houses in the middle, I can see roads compared to desert in Australia! My American and Canadian trip in a nutshell was interesting despite my luggage being delayed and the $55 taxi trip from JFK to Manhattan. I texted a friend and I shuffled papers around in the back of the cab to find the exact location of my hotel. I finally got there and saw the streets of New York, the sounds of sirens and fire trucks. I was far from Australia but it was new and I soaked in the sense of excitement. Next day was to Boston, then to Canada, then back via Niagara Falls. Did an awesome flight over the falls despite the sensory issues that I just tried my hardest to contain. Then after that back to New York visiting the marmalade colour of the American landscape of foliage. Then onto Minnesota for a week's stay and then back to Australia via Las Vegas and out of Los Angeles.
In 2010 I visited Europe and saw many countries but not all. I also visited Spain and Portugal recently. I almost broke my leg in Oporto, Portugal but when I travel I ask for and pay more for the single room supplement. It was scary though almost breaking my leg in Oporto for I may either return to Australia in a wheelchair or worst of all with one leg! I then flew onto England. I caught up with good friends in Newcastle which I would encourage more Australians and New Zealanders to visit more so than London. I went to Edinburgh, Holland and also Ireland. I am able to travel on my own and driving through the streets of Belfast was no easy task either. I was far from Australia and friends in England but I managed to get through with the help of an Aspie to Enniskillen (sorry if misspelled). I then drove around Ireland in 5 days. The GPS broke down just outside of Belfast and I was anxious about getting back to England. I was at Belfast Airport all day virtually with a delayed flight to Newcastle but I got there eventually. Next day back to Australia and then home. Now my head is adjusting while my feet are in the antipodes. Travel is great and more Aspies need to do it. It is a truly cognitive growing experience. I hope more Aspies will be able to travel. I hope to visit Berlin one day and China. I just need to accrue more leave and for now it is just a matter of getting back to Australia and doing the mundane tax return and paying the boring bills. For those of you interested no I could not find the castle in Ireland near Enniskillen called Irvine Castle but at least I was in the territory. Needed someone to help me but being on my own I could only do my best.
Cosmos Tours are worthwhile for Aspies and people want to travel on a budget. Although they are a bit out of town, they provide good tour guides and help you get around a country within a reasonable budget. I would like to travel with some Aspies but unfortunately not many have the opportunity or seem stressed about making the commitment. There is also passport control and the anxiety of handling the airport terminals. It almost knocked me out last time. I hope to write a book one day about traveling as an Aspie but I need people to like this post and large numbers to persuade me to do so.
I also visited Trinity College in Dublin and met Claire who runs the Trinity College Aspie group in Dublin. I also met with David who runs the adult group in Dublin. One day I hope to attend again. I also hope to visit the New Zealand Adult Group and some in the USA and Canada. More visits will happen just a matter of interest.
What exactly are services for adults and how can these be implemented?
To answer what the needs are for adults on the Autism Spectrum the services may vary from person to person. What is urgent however is a need for access to a support worker or counselor who is both aware and trained in their understanding of Autism. Across the globe services are either strong or they are non existent. Some adults live in cities within total isolation, feel alone, depressed and simply want access to someone to talk to and help them in times of need. The most crucial and important thing to factor in is the needs of the adult concerned. Maybe they want a lot of support or they may just need help with a day to day function or to attend a special interest which they enjoy.
What deeply concerns me is that lack of intervention and communication severely effects social skills development and unfortunately a lack of support fuels the symptoms of increased anxiety and social withdrawal. Aspies are not all anti social it is just that we struggle socially and may find certain situations very difficult. For adults who exist on their own advocacy on their own part in raising awareness of Autism is not impossible. It is essential that they try and connect with other adults globally and see advice as to how and where advocacy can begin.
In Australia, an Autism Bill would ensure that having been passed into law that it is the responsibility of government to provide services to adults where necessary. It is a matter of a service or indeed a support worker to work with the adult and to discuss needs. In my own situation day to day functioning is difficult in terms of socialising and implementing a lighter side. I also get stressed with the limited public transport options available and don't want to have to drive a car just to get around. Just someone to go with to see a historical exhibition, attend a function or just help with overcoming some anxiety issues would be of tremendous help. I do have some services within the University of Queensland and I will be seeing a counselor next Tuesday afternoon. I just find at times that I really need someone to talk to about understanding the world around me and just being able to listen.
Autism associations need to focus more so on the evolutionary process of a person with Autism. Adults should not be forgotten and future generations of children need to learn from adults on the Autism Spectrum. Speaking events are not just for the talented but any adult with Autism can speak and provide valuable information to deal with the many difficulties associated with specific or individual needs.
I am saddened when I travel the globe to meet other adults living in town or cities feeling isolated, lonely and depressed. I feel powerless that I am unable to help them and I am at a loss to know where I can help. I have to be selfish to keep myself in good health but living in social isolation is no fun. Day to day function can be difficult and simply not having friends or like minded people can seriously escalate anxiety levels.
I will be talking with Dr Tony Attwood this Thursday afternoon. I will mention to him my visit to Autism Works, my meetings with the adults in the United Kingdom and Ireland. I will continue to work where necessary to see vast improvements in services for adults and children with Autism when called upon. It gets harder as you get older and often sadly adults with Autism withdraw as people just do not know the basics of including them within conversation and simply trying to understand. I have been grateful to have helped other adults around the world and it is my hope that one day in my life time hopefully that a global summit may occur in Brisbane, Australia. It would be good if Dr Tony Attwood could attend. Although not all adults may be able to attend, submissions, skype conversations and attendance would allow for adults to have more of a united approach and bring forth support and services to areas on the globe which are missing out. Perhaps it is a dream but I can only try.
The need for services is complex but not impossible let us move forward and start taking action as fast as possible.
What deeply concerns me is that lack of intervention and communication severely effects social skills development and unfortunately a lack of support fuels the symptoms of increased anxiety and social withdrawal. Aspies are not all anti social it is just that we struggle socially and may find certain situations very difficult. For adults who exist on their own advocacy on their own part in raising awareness of Autism is not impossible. It is essential that they try and connect with other adults globally and see advice as to how and where advocacy can begin.
In Australia, an Autism Bill would ensure that having been passed into law that it is the responsibility of government to provide services to adults where necessary. It is a matter of a service or indeed a support worker to work with the adult and to discuss needs. In my own situation day to day functioning is difficult in terms of socialising and implementing a lighter side. I also get stressed with the limited public transport options available and don't want to have to drive a car just to get around. Just someone to go with to see a historical exhibition, attend a function or just help with overcoming some anxiety issues would be of tremendous help. I do have some services within the University of Queensland and I will be seeing a counselor next Tuesday afternoon. I just find at times that I really need someone to talk to about understanding the world around me and just being able to listen.
Autism associations need to focus more so on the evolutionary process of a person with Autism. Adults should not be forgotten and future generations of children need to learn from adults on the Autism Spectrum. Speaking events are not just for the talented but any adult with Autism can speak and provide valuable information to deal with the many difficulties associated with specific or individual needs.
I am saddened when I travel the globe to meet other adults living in town or cities feeling isolated, lonely and depressed. I feel powerless that I am unable to help them and I am at a loss to know where I can help. I have to be selfish to keep myself in good health but living in social isolation is no fun. Day to day function can be difficult and simply not having friends or like minded people can seriously escalate anxiety levels.
I will be talking with Dr Tony Attwood this Thursday afternoon. I will mention to him my visit to Autism Works, my meetings with the adults in the United Kingdom and Ireland. I will continue to work where necessary to see vast improvements in services for adults and children with Autism when called upon. It gets harder as you get older and often sadly adults with Autism withdraw as people just do not know the basics of including them within conversation and simply trying to understand. I have been grateful to have helped other adults around the world and it is my hope that one day in my life time hopefully that a global summit may occur in Brisbane, Australia. It would be good if Dr Tony Attwood could attend. Although not all adults may be able to attend, submissions, skype conversations and attendance would allow for adults to have more of a united approach and bring forth support and services to areas on the globe which are missing out. Perhaps it is a dream but I can only try.
The need for services is complex but not impossible let us move forward and start taking action as fast as possible.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Some progress at last but more steps forward needed.
This afternoon I met with some Aspies at UQ. It is good for us to get together and talk about the struggles and difficulties we all have but to also talk about our interests. We discussed the need for more services as well as some of the difficulties we have socially and in dealing with sensory issues. We have come to the agreement of having meetings on a fortnightly basis at UQ and that we will meet every second Friday at Merlos. The details of our meetings will be posted on Brisbane Asperger Syndrome Adults also.
All adults on the Autism Spectrum differ from situation to situation but quite simply what is required is at times just someone to talk to and help in times of difficulty. Rather than 'bottle up' our difficulties by talking about them with each other can hopefully significantly reduce social isolation and in some instances anxiety. While the Aspergers@UQ (University of Queensland) is in recess until the next semester begins, the adult group or adults need to meet up in a central location in Brisbane. This will hopefully start to begin but we are just taking things informally for the time being.
I sold my last book today and I have asked Asperger Services Australia to provide me with some more on standby should orders be expected soon. I also have 2 manuscripts sitting on my computer and I will endeavour at some stage to have these edited. I feel writing is the only way to enlighten and this I will try to do my best.
I have become fascinated in history and over the weekend I intend to read some more about history especially relating to Spain and Northern Africa. I have an interest in these areas having recently visited them. I also intend to do some further reading on areas of Australian history to broaden my knowledge. I hope in my life time that adults on the Autism Spectrum will visit Brisbane where I currently live. For adults with Autism traveling provides a means of escaping one's comfort zone and to thrust all cognitive energy into broadening one's mind and thinking.
I have traveled to different countries and have met Aspies in various locations. I intend to visit more where I possibly can to try my best to let them know there is hope and support from whichever corner of the globe they may reside. I firmly believe that no person, especially an adult with Autism should have to suffer social isolation and loneliness and I will try my best to help where I can. I may not please everyone but I know my own struggles as a person on the Autism Spectrum. I know Aspies very from one to the other but I know that there is always hope and to remain optimistic. For now the slow cog turns and forward as best it can to make for a better world for adults on the Autism Spectrum. More updates on my book soon but for now it is adios
All adults on the Autism Spectrum differ from situation to situation but quite simply what is required is at times just someone to talk to and help in times of difficulty. Rather than 'bottle up' our difficulties by talking about them with each other can hopefully significantly reduce social isolation and in some instances anxiety. While the Aspergers@UQ (University of Queensland) is in recess until the next semester begins, the adult group or adults need to meet up in a central location in Brisbane. This will hopefully start to begin but we are just taking things informally for the time being.
I sold my last book today and I have asked Asperger Services Australia to provide me with some more on standby should orders be expected soon. I also have 2 manuscripts sitting on my computer and I will endeavour at some stage to have these edited. I feel writing is the only way to enlighten and this I will try to do my best.
I have become fascinated in history and over the weekend I intend to read some more about history especially relating to Spain and Northern Africa. I have an interest in these areas having recently visited them. I also intend to do some further reading on areas of Australian history to broaden my knowledge. I hope in my life time that adults on the Autism Spectrum will visit Brisbane where I currently live. For adults with Autism traveling provides a means of escaping one's comfort zone and to thrust all cognitive energy into broadening one's mind and thinking.
I have traveled to different countries and have met Aspies in various locations. I intend to visit more where I possibly can to try my best to let them know there is hope and support from whichever corner of the globe they may reside. I firmly believe that no person, especially an adult with Autism should have to suffer social isolation and loneliness and I will try my best to help where I can. I may not please everyone but I know my own struggles as a person on the Autism Spectrum. I know Aspies very from one to the other but I know that there is always hope and to remain optimistic. For now the slow cog turns and forward as best it can to make for a better world for adults on the Autism Spectrum. More updates on my book soon but for now it is adios
Adjusting to different time zones
Since returning from overseas I am still coming to terms with different time zones. In the United Kingdom the sun is still up until approximately 10.30pm and currently in Australia having just recently passed the winter solstice, the sun seems to set around 5pm. As you can imagine it takes some adjustment when you have been used to longer days?
It takes some time for your body clock to adjust to different parts of the globe and you tend to get confused also by changes in your location. Quite literally you are disorientated until everything returns to normal.
Hopefully soon things will be back to normal for me?
It takes some time for your body clock to adjust to different parts of the globe and you tend to get confused also by changes in your location. Quite literally you are disorientated until everything returns to normal.
Hopefully soon things will be back to normal for me?
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