Understand Autism - Hear Simon's Story

Summary

This heartfelt narrative shares an individual's experience of growing up with autism, marked by isolation, bullying, and self-doubt. After being diagnosed later in life, the individual finds relief and empowerment, focusing on their strengths, particularly in photography, as a way to cope with anxiety and depression. Through this creative outlet, they find freedom and a sense of belonging. The story emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and advocates for societal respect and understanding, highlighting that individuals with autism can thrive when treated with dignity and given the space to contribute to society.

Takeaways

• 😀 The individual describes how they experience the world with autism, processing every detail down to the finest level, which can be mentally exhausting.
• 😀 As a child, they were very quiet, kept to themselves, and struggled with social interactions, often staying close to their parent instead of playing with other children.
• 😀 They experienced bullying at school and felt socially isolated, which led to feelings of depression and self-harm.
• 😀 The individual was diagnosed with autism at the age of 18, which they describe as a 'breath of fresh air' and a turning point in their life.
• 😀 The diagnosis allowed them to stop pretending to be someone they were not and focus on their strengths, particularly in photography.
• 😀 Photography has become a vital coping mechanism for the individual, helping them manage anxiety and depression while providing a sense of freedom.
• 😀 They describe how photography empowers them and allows them to feel 'normal' in a way they never experienced before.
• 😀 The individual believes that focusing on their strengths, rather than their weaknesses, has been crucial to their well-being.
• 😀 After being diagnosed, the individual felt a strong sense of responsibility to advocate for autism awareness and educate others about it.
• 😀 They emphasize that people with autism can contribute meaningfully to society when treated with respect and given equal opportunities.

Q & A

What does the speaker mean by processing the world down to the finest detail?

The speaker refers to their heightened sensory perception and mental processing, where they absorb and analyze even the smallest details in their environment, such as how light hits a tree or the texture of the bark and leaves.

How did the speaker feel during their childhood?

The speaker felt isolated, shy, and misunderstood. They were socially withdrawn, avoiding interaction with other children and often feeling like a burden on teachers, students, and their family.

What impact did being bullied at school have on the speaker?

Being bullied contributed to the speaker's depression, lack of friends, and a sense of not fitting in. This exacerbated their feelings of isolation and distress during childhood.

What does the speaker mean when they say they felt like a 'burden'?

The speaker felt that their difficulties, both socially and academically, made them a source of stress for others, leading to feelings of shame and self-worth issues.

How did the autism diagnosis affect the speaker?

The autism diagnosis was a turning point for the speaker, bringing relief and clarity. It allowed them to stop trying to conform to societal expectations and instead focus on their strengths, which was empowering.

How does photography help the speaker cope with their autism?

Photography serves as a way for the speaker to manage anxiety and depression. It provides them with a sense of focus and normalcy, allowing them to express themselves and feel free from the pressures of social interaction.

What strengths does the speaker have that they focus on after their diagnosis?

The speaker has a talent for photography, which they now embrace fully. Focusing on this strength has empowered them and helped them feel valued and recognized for their abilities.

How does the speaker feel about their autism diagnosis now?

The speaker feels that their diagnosis has given them the opportunity to embrace their true self, feel more accepted, and advocate for autism awareness and inclusion.

What does the speaker want others to understand about autism?

The speaker wants others to understand that autistic individuals can connect with society and contribute in meaningful ways when treated with respect and equality.

What is the speaker's ultimate message regarding autism?

The speaker's message is that autism should be understood and respected, and that by focusing on individual strengths rather than weaknesses, people with autism can lead fulfilling and impactful lives.