What it's Like to Like to Live with Autism

By Ashmita Annamalai, Edited by Anvitha Mattapalli, Samita Pandit, Tiffany Fang, & Jason Liu, Layout by Arushi Patil, Art by Sahithi Lingampalli, & Blogged by Kavya Gurunath

One in 59 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Yet, even as a common condition, stereotypes hit autistic individuals in all aspects of life. Not every individual with ASD is affected in the same way, and therefore, it can be difficult for non-disabled individuals to empathize with people with autism. However, learning more about the lives of autistic individuals and understanding that they are still human beings can help bring awareness along with aiding and creating a more inclusive society.

Feelings and emotions compose a significant part of an individual’s life. People with autism perceive and communicate emotions differently than those without autism. Some of them cannot always understand expressions, body language or sarcasm the same way those without autism can. This makes it more difficult for these individuals to understand the mood of the environment which could ultimately cause them to do things that may seem “irrational” in the situation. Their blunt responses combined with their lack of eye contact may seem rude, but it needs to be understood that they are only trying to communicate their thoughts and feelings the best that they can with others. Eye contact can actually make individuals with autism focus less on what is being spoken, and their facial expressions may also seem overly tense and unnatural. However, we must understand that their methods of social communication are not driven by negative intent.

Bright lights and noises also create challenges for autistic individuals with sensory issues. Some individuals have a strong sensitivity to touch--any form of touch can lead to an unpleasant experience for them. Hypersensitivities can make someone with autism feel overwhelmed, and hyposensitivities related to the under-responsiveness of signals that help control balance and coordination can lead to perceived clumsiness. When they are overwhelmed, uncontrollable physical and/or verbal meltdowns can occur. Furthermore, it is tougher for people with ASD to obtain jobs and careers, especially if the employer does not take their condition into consideration. . Additionally, individuals with autism can experience anxiety and impulsivity (Firman 2019) just as regular individuals do as well. Autistic individuals also tend to “become fixated on one thing, and in that moment, nothing else matters — it’s the most important thing in their life” (Firman, 2019). Regardless, their single-mindedness should not be considered a weakness and should rather be looked at as a strength.

The positives and miraculous characteristics of people with ASD are almost never discussed. When it comes to judging people; autistic individuals do not merely glimpse at the surface and make negative judgements the way that people without autism often do. They see right through other individuals and in return, they also appreciate an individual’s true nature. They break free from societal expectations and simply live in the moment. They are able to notice the beauty in small things in ways that others do not. Their attention to detail nurtures a strong memory capacity and enhances their creativity. They are less materialistic and value what they have (Rudy 2019). Autistic individuals are also intensely passionate about their interests and their level of dedication soars beyond the roof.

It’s harder for autistic individuals to fit in with society and relate to other people, and their efforts are worth standing ovations. Yet, their own way of thinking and living makes them unique and brings diversity to our communities. They have the capability to do miraculous things, even if the path they take slightly differs from that of others. Although autism is considered a “disorder,” if people could view it as a “superpower” and help these superheroes develop and grow in a welcoming environment, those same superheroes just might help save society one day.

References

This is what it's like to live with autism. (2019, April 12). Best Life. https://bestlifeonline.com/living-with-autism/

Top 10 traits to appreciate in people with autism. (n.d.). Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/top-terrific-traits-of-autistic-people-260321

By Sahithi Lingampalli