Awareness and acceptance may feel like the same thing, but they aren’t. Awareness is knowing that autism exists. Acceptance takes that further by understanding it and adjusting our view to be more inclusive within our own lives and throughout our communities. While facts and information matter, it’s time now to keep moving forward and turn that knowledge into action. Understanding neurodiversity means also understanding that people experience things differently than each other, and we can take that data into consideration as we live, build, and grow. When everyone feels like they are offered a seat at the table, positive change and a sense of community can bloom.

When society is built around the notion that everyone is the same, it makes it more difficult for some people to live comfortably within it. That unfortunately leads to bullying, judgment, and impatience from others. Taking the time to understand autism can shift reality into a more comfortable space that allows people to live authentically. What might this look like?

Expectation: Kids should be quiet and obedient while out in public, and you judge the parent when a child is throwing a tantrum.
Acceptance: You realize the child may be overstimulated by bright lights, new sounds, or unfamiliar people. You give the parent an encouraging smile, and offer help if appropriate.

Expectation: People should eat what is cooked and provided for them without special treatment.
Acceptance: You understand that certain foods can be a sensory trigger, so you offer an alternative or ask someone what they can eat before serving the meal.

Expectation: Friendly small talk through self-care appointments like haircuts or manicures is expected.
Acceptance: You understand that small talk is difficult and uncomfortable for some people, so you offer the option when booking the appointment to select a quiet appointment.

These scenarios seem simple, but aren’t always thought about. Taking the time to understand and adapt your own thinking to include others can make a huge difference in someone else’s life. This doesn’t have to just be an individual effort. Communities are starting to understand the importance, too, and are building their own ways to be more inclusive. In Texas, several local businesses are already part of the change:

Dallas Regional Chamber
The DRC offers a Disability Inclusion Toolkit with a variety of resources available to help companies build an inclusive workplace.

Pride Industries – Round Rock, Texas
Provides job training and placement for individuals with disabilities. They also offer coaching and skills development for independent living.

Chuck E. Cheese (Irving/Dallas)
Chuck E. Cheese now offers Sensory Sensitive Sundays the first Sunday of every month with a quieter, more dim environment, partner with Autism Speaks for special events and fundraising, and make sure staff is trained to support children with autism and other sensory needs.

These are just a few examples of many, as acceptance and the push toward inclusivity gains momentum. Creating spaces that feel comfortable for everyone opens up the possibility of a more connected, understanding world.

Parents and caregivers can easily find themselves stressed and burnt out. Taking care of an individual with autism can be isolating and confusing, learning as they go. They aren’t just managing symptoms, they are advocating, making calls, booking appointments, finding resources – and that’s on top of normal daily responsibilities we all face. It’s not uncommon for parents to feel guilt and shame as they try to navigate new situations. Having a trusted, supportive ally in their corner can make a huge difference. There are some easy ways to offer that support:

Be A Good Listener

Lend an ear and let the venting commence. Sometimes having an active listener in a judgment-free space is all that’s needed.

Encourage Self-Care

Parents often put themselves last, thinking they don’t have the time or energy to focus on themselves. In reality, taking care of themselves is a necessity if they are going to be the best versions of themselves for their child. Encourage self-care regularly, even if you have to tag along to make sure it happens.

Offer Your Help

Offer help when needed, even if they can’t bring themselves to ask for it. This may look like dropping off dinner, folding their laundry, or offering to hang out with their child so they can have a little break.

Be Understanding

Sometimes a friend or family member may have to cancel plans or forget to get back with you. Try to be understanding and patient – they are juggling a lot. Let them know you’re there for them, even if they don’t respond right away.

Celebrate With Them

Autism comes with many milestones, big and small. Celebrate those victories right beside them, hyping every important moment up. As a parent, it feels great when others show how much they care about your kids.

Become An Advocate

Use your own voice to amplify the conversation around autism in your community. Get involved, spread the word, and educate those who will listen. You’re not just showing support for your loved one, you’re helping bring the conversation into a bigger audience.

Parents and caregivers always want the best for their children, even at their own expense. A caring friend or relative can often lend a helping hand or open ear exactly when they need it.

Sillon Wellness can be a place of support for individuals with autism and their families. We understand the nuances of autism, and determine the right course of action based on the individual. Our compassionate team is highly experienced in evidence-backed methods that can help people grow, learn, and thrive.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A form of talk therapy that helps manage emotions, anxiety, and depression. With autism, this can help ease social anxiety, challenge negative thoughts, and learn healthy ways to cope.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): A modified form of CBT that helps emotional regulation, creates healthier coping skills, and improves relationships.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT focuses on learning acceptance of circumstances as a way to cope with negative thoughts. The goal is to increase psychological flexibility that allows engagement in healthy activities to make life more meaningful.
• Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT): A safe, supportive space for families to work through living with autism through improved communication, strengthened connections, and healthy interaction.

Each person is treated as an individual, with treatment determined based on their specific strengths, challenges, and goals. With a personalized path laid out, we’ll work toward a life that feels more at ease. If you’re ready to learn more, contact Sillon today to schedule a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation.