Life Experiences
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What is a substance-free lifestyle? A substance-free lifestyle is a lifestyle choice where a person lives their life without the use of substances that alter their mind in negative ways that are likely to harm them. Examples of substances are alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs, as well as prescription drugs (used in a way that… Read more
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Why Do People Avoid Eye Contact? We are told that maintaining good eye contact when speaking is one of the fundamental ways we connect. However, eye contact can vary depending on different factors. For example, some cultures think that good eye contact when someone is talking can be disrespectful, rude or aggressive. Neurodivergent people with… Read more
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My brain goes all the time. It is like I don’t have an off switch for it to stay quiet. Endless thoughts going around my head, and it is really tiring. I know that for me rest is very important, but I am not very good at stopping. However, I have written some reasons why… Read more
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I often hear comments that people make about ‘everyone being on the spectrum’, or ‘a little bit autistic’. I don’t think people say this to be nasty, but it is just a lack of understanding about the condition. After all, I used to think this way too. The answer to this is no. I was… Read more
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Has anyone ever wondered why many people with autism fuss over food? It is not about being difficult, but about sensory regulation, comfort and predictability. I am not very good at trying new food. There are a lot of foods I like to eat, but there are foods that make me feel anxious when and… Read more
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To make a big deal over a sandwich is crazy, I know๐. My daughter asked if she could have a packed lunch to school before the holidays. She has been having school dinners, and it has been so convenient. I don’t have to think about preparing lunch for her; I don’t have to buy extra… Read more
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A relationship, I hope not. I have an imaginary man, and he is perfect๐. At the stage I am at in my life, the thought of a relationship is very difficult. Relationships have always been that way for me. When I think about it now, I get a knot in my stomach. Image by AS… Read more
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For me, a sense of belonging is very important, so the attitude of my family makes a difference. Autism inclusion in families is an important place for support and connection. How the family views me makes a difference to my happiness. Image created with Canva Learning from Others I learn from non-autistic people how to… Read more
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The best piece of advice came from a member of my family. She lived into her nineties, drank like a fish and smoked like a chimney, but she said one of the most sensible things ever. ‘Take a big dose of nae notice’ translated as ‘take no notice’ or ‘pay no attention’. I don’t recommend… Read more

