Wishing all autistic children and adults a safe and prosperous New Year. Take care of yourselves and remember it is not selfish to ask for help. One of the signs of wisdom and strength is knowing you can't do it all alone. There are those willing to help, reach out to them.

True friends are rare and when you find them, they take work to maintain. This is true for everyone from all walks of life. After investing time into friendships there are times when things don't work out. Sometimes its nobody's fault, but it is so worth it to have a true friend.

Friendships among autistic adults is a subject we just don't hear a lot about. It is a very serious matter that is worthy of exploration. There are many levels of friendship. Most people lack insight related to the role imaginary friends play in the lives of some autistic people.

Friendships for autistic people are more than just social networks. Friendships may look different for autistic adults. Increased communication skills and clarity of thoughts are two great benefits of autistics having friends. There is value in having real and imagined friends.

Let's keep it real. Sometimes friends turn their backs on us for no apparent reason. Join us on a free webinar that discusses how to respond when friends betray us. Just follow the link below to register. adultautism2.com/free-webinar-r…

Only two days left before the webinar that everyone has been waiting for. "How to respond when a friend betrays you" is Thursday February 6, 2025 at 11:00 AM MST. Still not too late to join us. Click on this link to register: adultautism2.com Hope to see you there!

Just wanted to follow up with a big THANK YOU to all who attended our webinar focusing on autism friendships. The feedback provided was great and the event was a success because of you. Elevating causes that spotlight autism is our goal. Adult Autism2 couldn't do it without you.

Life coaching and autistic adults can be a wonderful combination...if you're open to the experience. Adult Autism 2 offers a free half hour initial coaching consultation. Contact me if there is an area of concern that you want to talk about. There is no judgement or condemnation.

Boundaries related to autistic adults must be carefully guarded. There is the issue of agency and respecting the right for autistic adults to make their own decisions. The other important area involves the person's independence. There is a fine line that should not be crossed.

Now is a good time to remember all the people with autism and other disabilities. There are rapid changes taking place in the world that impact them. The lack of stability in housing, education, healthcare, and even nutrition is astounding. Remember to take care of each other.

People need to realize its ok to talk openly about autism. This is not a topic that needs to be discussed behind closed doors. Amazingly, there are still people who feel shame when talking about their autistic family member. Be proud to share your autism adventure with others!

We are grateful that April is recognized as Autism Awareness Month, we can't be content. There is so much more potential within autistic people that transcends awareness. Autism in its totality can't be captured in a single month. Meanwhile, we press on to higher accomplishments.

Thousands of autistic adults are swiftly marching towards middle age. As they age, steps must be taken to prepare for their future. Family is the primary source of care now, but a major shift is coming. It's not too early to start a life plan for your adult autistic child now.

Autism diagnostic rates continue to rise. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states 1 in 31 children in the United States are diagnosed with autism by age 8. This should concern all of us as this growing population will need further health and provisional care.

RFK needs to sit down with actual families across the autism spectrum and then speak informatively with no agenda, other than to help the families with services/ programs etc bc we are not gonna let him set back the narrative to 1950 #autismacceptance

The sense of urgency to find a cure to autism is real as we witness the creation of two separate groups. One section comprises people with severe limitations and few resources to access the best care. The other is made up of autistics who live independently with few deficits.

The term aging well is often used to describe seniors growing older. We know little about how autistic adults age and the changes that occur. Conducting a longitudinal study that documents mental and physical changes is overdue. Understanding aging autistic behavior is needed.

Special Needs Trusts are one available option for families preparing for the financial future of their special children. There are budget friendly options available through local banks, credit unions, and retirement plans. Explore all resources and decide what works best for you.

Housing options for autistic adults are not always obvious. Sometimes seeking choices that may not have been considered before are necessary. Moving beyond what has become comfortable requires courage. Independent living filled with accomplishment and fulfillment is the reward.

Approximately 50-80 % of autistic people experience poor sleep quality. This includes waking up from sleep, sleep anxiety, fear of going to sleep, and irregular sleep patterns. Fatigue and lack of concentration during the day could be the result of not sleeping well at night.