“How can non-autistics be more supportive toward autistics?”
I sooo appreciate it when my non-autistic friends ask this! Every autistic person is different, so it’s best to ask the ones you know. As for me, I appreciate it when you…
ALLOW ME TO “STIM” – I feel so much calmer when I know that it’s okay for me to fidget, rock, or move in other repetitive ways.
BE PATIENT – I may need a little extra time to form my thoughts into words, or to transition from one activity to another.
CREATE CALM SPACES – If a place is loud or crowded, then I want to escape. In a place that’s calm and familiar, I can relax.
DISCUSS DIRECTLY – I’m not great at reading between the lines. If you like me, or need something, or have a suggestion, just say so.
ENCOURAGE MY INTERESTS – If I’m excited about a hobby or topic, then it’s always on my mind, so I love being able to talk about it.
FORGIVE AWKWARDNESS – I might act or speak in unusual ways, but please understand that I’m not trying to make you uncomfortable.
GIVE NOTICE – Unpredictability is stressful. If you let me know your plans ahead of time, I can prepare for them.
Thank you so much!