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?
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
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.
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.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
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?
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?
Monday, July 25, 2011
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!
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!
Sunday, July 24, 2011
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.
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.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
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.
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!
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!
Friday, July 22, 2011
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.
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.
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.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
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
[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
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
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!
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.
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.
Monday, July 18, 2011
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!
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!
Sunday, July 17, 2011
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
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.
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 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
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