April 3, 2023
When it comes to autism, I’m not filled with sadness because my child lives with it. What truly weighs on me is the additional challenges that accompany autism—like the relentless anxiety, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, sensory processing difficulties, hyperactivity, and the intellectual disabilities that complicate everyday life.
Unfortunately, these aspects of autism rarely get the spotlight during Autism Awareness Month. Instead, my social media feeds are flooded with uplifting memes and stories of individuals with autism showcasing extraordinary talents. While I appreciate the positivity, it often feels one-dimensional. It’s a struggle to feel inspired when I know my reality is far from those narratives.
Living with Autism
Take my nearly 13-year-old son, for example. He still believes in Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny. He finds comfort in watching Baby Einstein when he needs to relax, and his room resembles something out of a chaotic children’s show. I’m not upset that he doesn’t engage in typical teenage interests, though I can’t quite grasp what those even are. Are they into things like collecting rare Pokémon cards or binge-watching the latest teen dramas?
What truly saddens me is the pressure that comes with planning outings that should be enjoyable. Too often, I find myself preparing for potential meltdowns or changes in plans, having been through this cycle countless times before. It can be exhausting, making me reluctant to step outside our familiar bubble. Plus, my son has an uncanny ability to sense my hesitation. I wish I could share exciting news without needing to prepare an elaborate social story to accompany it.
The Disconnect
What gets me most is the disconnect between the heartwarming stories shared by my friends and the daily grind that families like mine endure. The stress, the worry, the challenges—this isn’t fake news; it’s our reality. I wish those who share these feel-good tales could truly understand our experiences. I’d love to invite them over, but that brings its own set of stressors—unless, of course, they come bearing fries.
This is the reality of autism that I want people to recognize.
If you’re interested in learning more about home insemination options, check out this post on cryobaby home intracervical insemination syringe kit combo. For a comprehensive guide on pregnancy, visit WHO’s pregnancy resources.
Conclusion
In summary, while Autism Awareness Month brings attention to many positive stories, it can often overshadow the daily struggles that families face. This month, let’s broaden the conversation to include the complexities of living with autism, ensuring that all experiences are acknowledged and understood.
Leave a Reply