Overcoming Discrimination Against Autistic People

Have you ever felt like you don't quite fit in? Do you struggle with feeling misunderstood or discriminated against because of who you are?

In her book Different, Not Less, Chloé Hayden explores the challenges faced by autistic individuals. She delves into the discrimination against autistic people and shares her personal journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

Keep reading to learn more about overcoming bias and embracing neurodiversity in a world that often misunderstands autism.

The Struggle Against Discrimination for Autistic Individuals

Feeling Different From an Early Age

If you're autistic, you've likely felt different from a young age. The author of Different, Not Less describes feeling like a hidden Quasimodo or a misplaced young lion, isolated and detached from others. You might have experienced similar feelings of solitude, preferring time alone and staying quiet in certain situations. These experiences often stem from the discrimination against autistic people that's unfortunately prevalent in society, making it challenging for individuals on the spectrum to feel accepted and understood.

Your heightened awareness of your environment and particular food choices may have set you apart. Even simple behaviors like organizing LEGO blocks could draw whispers and critical observation from neurotypical peers. Despite affectionate nicknames from parents, like "our distinctive young genius," feelings of alienation often persisted.

Challenges in Social Interactions and School

Navigating social interactions can be incredibly complex when you're autistic. The author recounts numerous days of isolation at school, feeling out of place and struggling with the intricacies of typical brain function. This often led to reduced engagement in school activities and declining academic performance.

Societal expectations and experiences of bullying can make it difficult for your autism to be recognized, especially if it doesn't fit the usual stereotypes. The author even wrote a letter to the divine at age five, expressing a wish to fit in better - a stark illustration of the long-standing struggle with feeling like an outsider.

The Journey to Diagnosis

For many autistic individuals, receiving a diagnosis can be a turning point, albeit one filled with apprehension and bewilderment. The author's diagnosis at thirteen didn't immediately alleviate their struggles. Family members sometimes choose to ignore the reality, viewing the autistic person as lacking distinctive characteristics.

The diagnostic process can be confusing and heartbreaking, involving various assessments and tests. Unfortunately, harassment and bullying can instill a sense of shame associated with autism. It's important to remember that although the diagnosis may initially be distressing, it can eventually lead to a deeper understanding and acceptance of your neurodivergence.

Embracing Your Authentic Self

One of the biggest challenges you might face as an autistic person is addressing and moving past ingrained prejudices about ability. It's crucial to appreciate the intrinsic worth of your neurodivergent identity and challenge common stereotypes about autism.

The author found that hiding their autistic traits was ineffective and learned to embrace their authentic identity. This process was fostered by supportive entities like RDA, where they genuinely felt a sense of inclusion and acceptance for the first time.

Finding Your Community

Recognizing your individual talents and proactively seeking out supportive groups can be transformative. The author found solace in blogging and discovering communities that offered support, coming to understand the influence of their own words.

Volunteering at places like Kyeema held profound significance, fostering an environment that nurtured authentic self-expression. You might find, like the author did, that developing your own unique methods of communication can lead to the formation of strong bonds.

Cultivating Pride in Your Neurodivergent Identity

It's possible to resonate with your distinct neurodiverse attributes and use them to forge connections with others who possess similar neurological characteristics. The author's self-assurance was bolstered by forming connections online, excelling in equestrian activities, and participating in local theater, which highlighted their innate abilities.

By documenting their journey as 'Princess Aspien,' the author encouraged others to recognize their value beyond traditional societal norms. You too can thrive by concentrating on your unique abilities instead of conforming to conventional neurotypical standards, thereby discovering your own version of a fulfilling life.

Navigating the Education System

The education system can be particularly challenging for autistic individuals. You might encounter discrimination, bullying, and insufficient support within a framework that typically shows little tolerance for straying from rigid standards.

The author describes a "toxic schoolyard environment" filled with misunderstandings, chastisement, and mockery from both peers and educators. These experiences can lead to a profound sense of alienation and psychological strain.

Advocating for Inclusive Education

It's crucial to advocate for systemic changes that create inclusive and accessible educational environments. This includes recognizing each person's distinctiveness and disapproving of practices that promote ableism.

Educational programs and instructional approaches should be tailored to accommodate the distinct needs of autistic students. The focus should shift from highlighting shortcomings to valuing social and diversity elements. Physical spaces should be standardized and equipment made accessible to prevent disadvantaging individuals with physical disabilities.

Mental Health Challenges

As an autistic person, you may face additional mental health challenges. The author received a PTSD diagnosis at the surprisingly young age of seven, and their experiences deeply affected their daily life, leading to reduced self-perception and depressive states.

It's important to note that autism may sometimes go unrecognized due to characteristics it shares with other conditions, such as PTSD. This can delay diagnosis and proper support. Women who are neurodivergent often face particular difficulties in adhering to neurotypical norms, which can substantially affect their psychological health.

Understanding Sensory Differences

Many autistic individuals encounter difficulties stemming from differences in processing sensory information. You might experience challenges with motor coordination or heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli, which could appear irrational to those who don't understand the condition.

Recognizing early signs of sensory overload, like increasing irritation or a quickening heartbeat, is essential for managing circumstances that might result in excessive stress. Actions like stimming, often misunderstood and stigmatized, can be crucial for focus, stress reduction, and emotional regulation.

Embracing Adulthood

As you transition into adulthood, you might find yourself feeling more apprehensive than excited about typically joyful life events. Early traumatic experiences related to adults can cause fear of engaging in adult relationships and intimacy.

However, pursuing personal growth provides an opportunity to gain self-awareness while evolving. Many neurodiverse individuals embrace maturity with a sense of eagerness instead of apprehension, which plays a role in their success.

Finding Fulfilling Careers

Neurodivergent individuals often face higher unemployment rates than their neurotypical peers, primarily due to societal misunderstandings and lack of appropriate accommodations in the workplace. However, when accommodations are made, autistic individuals can feel valued and equal to their peers.

Acknowledging the distinct aspects of neurodiversity as advantages rather than hindrances can enable you to thrive in careers well-suited to your abilities. Entrepreneurial endeavors often suit neurodivergent individuals, as they allow for the design of workspaces and schedules that play to unique abilities.

Remember, with the right support and a shift in perspective, maturity can blossom into a period of empowerment and success for autistic individuals. By embracing your unique strengths and advocating for necessary changes, you can overcome discrimination and find your path to a fulfilling life.