Autism Influencers For People With ASD

How can kids with autism spectrum disorder benefit from having autism influencers?

friends, autism effect
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Understanding Significant Things About Spectrum Disorder

What do authorities have to say about autism? A lot of people are still unaware of ASD diagnosis despite many kids, even adults, having ASD. Hence, a need for ASD awareness.

Autism is characterized by emotional, social, and behavioral challenges. People with Autism Spectrum usually display repetitive behaviors and struggle to interact with other non-autistic communities.

If there were one awful encounter that I could recall with my extended family, it would be that time when Regina and her three-year-old daughter, Mia, visited the United States.

From what I understood autonomously, Regina was the wife of one of my dad’s second cousins.

The cousin migrated to the US two years ago, but he only had the money to bring his family here now. Before I could get out of the car automatically that day, though, my mom delicately informed me to be patient and gentle with Mia because she was diagnosed with autism spectrum.

autism, autism awareness, mental health
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The question was: “Is that one of the mental disabilities”?

No kid would immediately understand, but I nodded.

When we arrived at the party, I naturally paid the usual respect to the elders, which is automatically done in our culture. I immediately saw Regina as well, and I immediately thought that she seemed like a lovely lady. Her English was not fluent yet, but I knew enough Spanish to converse with her. Then, she pointed me to the garden, where she said Mia engaged and played with the other kids.

autism girl
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Different Thoughts Afterward

I did not need to be accompanied to that spot. As I neared the garden, one of my same-age cousins who had a lot of impact on me, Lola, came up to me and whispered, “Mia is special.” I heard that word again. Surely, curious, I let Lola drag me to where Mia sat on the grass field.

When I was finally face-to-face with the three-year-old, I did not see any specialness, sensory processing disorder, or signs of ASD at first. Even when the other kids flocked around the little girl, she continued sitting on the ground full of stress and anxietyOh, that’s special, I thought. Mia was struggling with autism disorder.

I Decided To Be A Counselor

The family gathering had not ended yet when I witnessed another shocking thing about ASD and autistic people. I was on the way to the bathroom to pee when I heard a woman’s hushed angry tones and a child crying. I took a peek and saw that Regina was smacking Mia’s butt. From what I heard, she was upset because her kid kept acting oddly.

I'm hoping to visit my parents' homeland and see how Mia is doing with her condition soon. Now that I have a better understanding of her. Autism influencer.
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Fast forward to 2021. Regina and Mia did not stay long in the United States. Dad’s cousin moved back with them, so we never saw them again.

How Does ASD Impact Kids?

Encouraged to be an autism counselor For Kids

Before knowing about these ASD influencers (e.g., international speaker Daniel Jones) and their social media accounts, such as their Facebook page, YouTube channel, Instagram influencers account, and other personal accounts like TikTok, everyone asked what influenced me to have ASD awareness and autism acceptance. I could not always give them a straight answer. I mean, how could I tell them that I was influenced to learn how to provide counseling because I could help and support children with autism and teach mothers like Regina the full awareness of how to be a good guide for daughters like Mia who have autism?

As I began practicing autism awareness through my college student counseling days, I realized that many parents kept trying to address special needs and treat their kids with autism disorder like normal children. This means they would order them to do something and then get mad if the child with ASD could not follow simple instructions.

Conclusion: Kind Words of Advice

While regular children might understand an instruction at once, you need to keep reminding a kid with autism about what they should do. Hence, sticking to a routine for a long while was always my primary recommendation for kids with autism disorders. More importantly, even if such children with autism would not show many emotions, it does not mean that your hurtful words won’t sting those kids with autism disorders. They also have special needs and thus should raise awareness with the help of an autism advocate.

I’m hoping to visit my parents’ homeland and see how Mia is doing with her autism soon. Now that I have a better understanding of autism in a person, I can help her parents understand how to deal with autism. It has always had a bad rep but autism concerns don’t have to be. It can be a good thing for everybody influenced by this. We should celebrate neurodiversity in all parts of the world.

FAQs

How Can You Influence Positivity In Someone With Autism?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as different people with autism may have different preferences, needs, and challenges. However, some general tips that may help include:

  • Respect their autonomy and individuality. Allow them to choose and express their opinions, interests, and emotions. Do not try to change or fix them; accept and celebrate their differences.
  • Provide positive feedback and encouragement. Recognize their strengths and achievements, and praise them for their efforts. Avoid harsh criticism or punishment and focus on what they can do rather than what they cannot.
  • Support their communication and social skills. Use clear and simple language, and give them time to process and respond. Use visual aids or gestures if needed. Help them understand social cues and expectations and model appropriate behaviors. Respect their need for space or solitude, and do not force them to interact if they are uncomfortable.
  • Create a safe and comfortable environment. Minimize sensory overload and potential stressors, such as loud noises, bright lights, or crowds. Provide structure and routine, and prepare them for any changes or transitions. Offer them opportunities to engage in activities that they enjoy and find relaxing.
  • Seek professional help if needed. If the person with autism struggles with mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, they may benefit from therapy or medication. A qualified mental health professional can guide and support the person with autism and their family or caregivers.

What Are The Life Challenges Faced By People With ASD?

People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may face various challenges in different aspects of their lives, such as:

  • Education: People with ASD may have difficulty learning in a typical classroom setting due to sensory issues, social difficulties, or cognitive differences. They may need individualized education plans, accommodations, or specialized services to meet their academic needs and goals.
  • Employment: People with ASD may have trouble finding or keeping a job that matches their skills and interests. They may face discrimination or stigma in the workplace or struggle with communication, collaboration, or organization. They may need vocational training, mentoring, or reasonable adjustments to perform their tasks effectively.
  • Health: People with ASD may have higher physical and mental health problems rates than the general population. They may have co-occurring conditions, such as epilepsy, gastrointestinal disorders, sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, or ADHD. They may also have difficulty accessing health care services or communicating their health needs.
  • Relationships: People with ASD may have difficulty forming and maintaining relationships with family members, friends, romantic partners, or peers. They may have trouble understanding social norms, expressing emotions, or empathizing with others. They may also experience loneliness, isolation, or bullying.
  • Independence: People with ASD may have difficulty living independently or participating in their community. They may need assistance with daily living skills, such as personal hygiene, cooking, cleaning, or managing finances. They may also face barriers to transportation, housing, or social activities.

Does It Affect Creativity?

Creativity is the ability to generate and execute novel and useful ideas. It is a complex phenomenon that involves multiple cognitive processes and brain networks. There is no simple answer to whether autism affects creativity, as different aspects of autism may impact creative thinking differently.

Some studies have suggested that people with autism may have lower levels of creativity than neurotypical people due to difficulties with divergent thinking (generating multiple possible solutions), flexibility (switching between different perspectives), or originality (producing uncommon or unconventional ideas). However, other studies have challenged this view and argued that people with autism may have different types of creativity than neurotypical people.

For example, some researchers have proposed that people with autism may excel at convergent thinking (finding the best solution), systemizing (analyzing patterns and rules), or detail-oriented processing (focusing on specific features). These cognitive styles may enable them to produce creative ideas in domains that require logic, precision, or expertise.

Additionally, some researchers have suggested that people with autism may have higher levels of imagination (creating mental images), fantasy (inventing fictional scenarios), or personal expression (communicating one’s identity). These aspects of creativity may reflect their unique perspectives and experiences of the world.

Therefore, it is possible that people with autism have different forms of creativity than neurotypical people, rather than lower levels of creativity. More research is needed to understand how autism affects creativity across various domains and contexts.

How Do Facebook, Twitter, And Other Platforms Help Improve Autism Self-Awareness?

Influencers on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms can play a role in improving autism self-awareness in several ways:

  • Information Sharing: Individuals and organizations dedicated to autism awareness can use these platforms to share information, articles, research findings, and personal experiences related to autism. This helps educate the public and individuals with autism about the condition, its challenges, and its strengths.
  • Support Communities: Social media provides a platform for people with autism, their families, and caregivers to connect with others who share similar experiences. There are numerous online communities, groups, and forums where individuals can seek advice, share stories, and offer emotional support.
  • Awareness Campaigns: Autism awareness campaigns can reach a wider audience through social media. These campaigns often include personal stories, statistics, and educational content to increase public understanding and acceptance of autism.
  • Advocacy and Activism: Social media platforms enable autism advocates and organizations to mobilize supporters, raise funds, and promote policy changes related to autism awareness and support.
  • Storytelling: Personal stories shared on platforms like Facebook and Twitter can be powerful tools for raising awareness and understanding. Autistic individuals and their families can use these platforms to share their unique perspectives, challenges, and successes.
  • Global Reach: Social media has a global reach, allowing autism awareness efforts to extend beyond local communities. This helps create a more inclusive and accepting society on a global scale.
  • Event Promotion: Autism-related events, conferences, and workshops can be promoted and coordinated through social media platforms. This facilitates greater participation and engagement from the autism community.
  • Breaking Stereotypes: Social media can challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about autism by providing a platform for autistic individuals to showcase their talents, skills, and accomplishments.
  • Resources and Information: Social media platforms are hubs for sharing resources, such as articles, videos, webinars, and toolkits, that provide valuable information and support for individuals with autism and their families.

However, it’s important to note that while social media can be a valuable tool for autism self-awareness and advocacy, it also has challenges. These platforms sometimes perpetuate misinformation, and online communities may not always be safe or supportive. Therefore, individuals and organizations must use these platforms responsibly, promote evidence-based information, and foster inclusive and respectful online communities. Additionally, it’s essential for users to critically evaluate the information they come across and seek reliable sources of information and support. One way to do this is to find autism influencers who are knowledgeable, credible, and authentic about autism and neurodiversity.

What Are The Environmental Factors Of ASD?

Both genetic and environmental factors influence Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While the exact causes are not fully understood, some potential environmental factors include maternal infections during pregnancy, maternal immune responses, certain medications, preterm birth, and exposure to environmental toxins. However, none of these factors have been definitively proven to cause ASD, and research in this area is ongoing. It’s important to note that vaccines do not cause autism. ASD is a complex condition with multiple contributing factors, and early intervention and support are crucial for individuals with ASD, regardless of the specific causes.

How Is Someone With ASD Affected In Terms Of Social Interaction And Involvement?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can affect social interaction and involvement in various ways. Individuals with ASD may struggle with social communication, reciprocal interaction, eye contact, empathy, and sensory sensitivities. They may find it challenging to make friends, leading to social isolation. However, they also bring unique strengths and perspectives to social interactions. Support and interventions can help improve their social skills and involvement in social activities.

Does It Run In Families?

Yes, autism has a genetic component and can run in families. Research has shown that if one family member has autism, the likelihood of another family member having autism or related traits is higher than in the general population. This suggests a genetic predisposition for autism.

However, it’s important to note that autism is a complex and heterogeneous condition. Multiple genes are thought to contribute to the development of autism, and environmental factors may also play a role. Therefore, not all individuals with a family history of autism will necessarily develop the condition, and not all cases of autism can be attributed to genetics alone.

The exact genetic factors involved in autism are still the subject of ongoing research, and it’s a complex interplay between genetic and environmental influences. Family history can be a risk factor, but it is not a definitive predictor of whether a specific individual will have autism.

Can It Be Triggered By Trauma?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition primarily influenced by genetics and not typically triggered by trauma or environmental factors. While trauma may affect an individual’s emotional and psychological well-being, it does not directly cause ASD. ASD’s development is complex, with genetic and other factors playing significant roles.

What Are The Three Main Symptoms Of Autism?

The three main symptoms of autism are:

  • Difficulty with social interaction and communication. This means that people with ASD may have trouble understanding and expressing their own and others’ emotions, thoughts, and intentions. They may also have difficulty making eye contact, using gestures, or following social rules and cues. They may prefer to be alone or have limited interest in others.
  • Restricted or repetitive behaviors and interests. This means that people with ASD may have unusual or intense preferences or routines that they follow rigidly. They may also repeat certain actions, words, or sounds repeatedly. They may be fascinated by specific parts of objects or topics. They may also have sensory sensitivities or aversions to certain sounds, smells, tastes, textures, or lights.
  • Other related characteristics. This means that people with ASD may have other features that are not part of the core symptoms but are often associated with the condition. These may include delayed or impaired language, learning, movement, or cognitive skills; hyperactivity, impulsivity, or inattention; epilepsy or seizures; unusual eating or sleeping habits; gastrointestinal issues; mood or emotional problems; anxiety or stress; lack of fear or more fear than expected; and so on.

These symptoms vary widely in type and severity among different individuals with ASD. Therefore, ASD is considered a spectrum disorder that encompasses a range of characteristics and challenges. It is important to note that people with ASD also have many strengths and abilities to help them cope and thrive. For more information on ASD, you can visit the websites of the National Autism Association or the Autism Society.

What Are The Three Types Of Autism?

The three types of autism are:

  • Level 1: This is the mildest level of ASD, which means that people with this type may need support daily. They may struggle with social communication and interaction, such as initiating or maintaining conversations, understanding social cues, or adapting to different situations. They may also have restricted or repetitive behaviors and interests, such as following rigid routines, having intense hobbies, or being sensitive to sensory stimuli.https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/types-of-autis
  • Level 2: This is the moderate level of ASD, which means that people with this type may need substantial support daily. They may have more noticeable difficulties with social communication and interaction, such as having limited verbal or nonverbal skills, showing little interest in others, or having trouble coping with change. They may also have more frequent or severe restricted or repetitive behaviors and interests, such as repeating words or actions, having narrow interests, or being very resistant to sensory input.
  • Level 3: This is the most severe level of ASD, meaning that people with this type may need substantial support daily. They may have significant impairments in social communication and interaction, such as having minimal or no speech, showing no response to others, or being extremely distressed by unfamiliar situations. They may also have very inflexible or extremely restricted or repetitive behaviors and interests, such as performing compulsive rituals, having obsessive interests, or being intolerant of sensory stimulation.

These types of autism are based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), a tool medical professionals use to diagnose and classify mental disorders. However, it is important to note that these types are not fixed or definitive labels but general descriptions that may vary from person to person. Each individual with ASD has their own unique strengths and challenges that may change over time and across different contexts. Therefore, it is essential to understand and respect the diversity and complexity of autistic experiences. For more information on ASD, you can visit the websites of the National Autism Association or the Autism Society.

What Celebrity Has Been Diagnosed With ASD?

Many celebrities have been diagnosed with ASD, which stands for autism spectrum disorder. ASD is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts, and behaves. Some of the celebrities who have publicly shared their diagnosis are:

  • Anthony Hopkins, the Oscar-winning actor who starred in movies such as The Silence of the Lambs and The Father. He was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, a form of ASD, in his 70s. He said that being on the spectrum helped him with his acting skills and that he feels no different.
  • Daryl Hannah, the actress who played the mermaid in Splash and the assassin in Kill Bill. She was diagnosed with autism as a child and said doctors wanted to institutionalize her, but her mother refused. She said that acting was a way to cope with her autism and that she struggled with social anxiety and shyness.
  • Dan Aykroyd, the comedian and actor who co-created and starred in Ghostbusters and The Blues Brothers. He was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome as an adult and said that it made him obsessed with ghosts and law enforcement, which inspired his movies. He also said that he has Tourette’s syndrome, which causes him to make involuntary movements and sounds.
  • Courtney Love, the singer and actress who founded the band Hole and married Kurt Cobain. She was diagnosed with mild autism as a child and said it made her feel alienated and misunderstood. She said that music was her outlet and that she used drugs to cope with her emotions.
  • Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur and visionary who founded Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink. He revealed that he has Asperger’s syndrome during his appearance on Saturday Night Live in 2021. He said that he often says or does things that people find strange or offensive, but he does not mean harm. He also said that he is trying to make the world a better place with his innovations.
  • Susan Boyle, the singer who rose to fame after her audition on Britain’s Got Talent in 2009. She was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome in 2012 after previously being told that she had brain damage. She said that the diagnosis was a relief and that it explained why she had difficulties with relationships and communication. She also said she is proud of who she is and hopes to inspire others with her story.
  • Haley Moss is a person who has autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and is also an attorney, artist, author, speaker, and advocate for people with disabilities and neurodiversity. She was diagnosed with autism when she was three years old and has since become an inspiration and a role model for many people in the autism community and beyond. She is the first openly autistic female attorney in Florida and one of the few autistic attorneys worldwide. She has written four books on various topics related to autism, such as middle school, college, independence, and professionalism. She has also spoken at various events and platforms, such as TEDxUMiami, The Washington Post, and Psychology Today.
  • Chris Bonnello is an autistic advocate, speaker, writer, novelist, and former teacher based in Great Britain. He was diagnosed with autism at 25 and has since become a national and international speaker on autism issues. He is also the multi-award-winning writer behind Autistic Not Weird, a website that shares his personal and professional insights.

These are just some of the many top autism celebrities who have ASD and have achieved success in their fields. They show that ASD is not a barrier to greatness but a part of their identity and diversity. For more information on ASD, you can visit the websites of the National Autism Association or the Autism Society.

Is Social Media Good For Autism?

Social media can have both positive and negative effects on autism. On the positive side, social media can help autistic people make social connections, find communities with shared interests, access support and information, and express themselves creatively on autism blogs and videos. On the negative side, social media can expose autistic people to cyberbullying, misinformation, or exploitation and cause stress, anxiety, depression, or addiction. Therefore, using social media wisely and responsibly and seeking professional help is important.

Is There An Autistic YouTuber?

Many autistic YouTubers create content about their experiences and perspectives on the autism spectrum. Some of them are:

  • Daniel Jones is a person who has autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and is also a content creator, speaker, author, and advocate for neurodiversity and mental health. He is from Wales and has Asperger’s syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and dyslexia. He runs a popular YouTube channel called The Aspie World, where he shares his insights and experiences on various topics related to autism, such as diagnosis, education, employment, relationships, and lifestyle.
  • Purple Ella is an autistic Bristol mum, influencer, and blogger discussing autism, disability, and lifestyle topics.
  • Agony Autie is an excellent autistic speaker and advocate who covers various issues related to autism, such as sensory processing, communication, and mental health.
  • Amythest Schraber, an autistic speaker and activist, discusses different aspects of autism, such as stimming, echolalia, and identity.
  • Neurodivergent Rebel is an autistic writer and speaker who explores topics related to autism and neurodiversity, such as diagnosis, advocacy, and acceptance.
  • Ellen Jones is an autistic musician and campaigner who shares her passion for music and social justice.

These are just some autistic YouTubers who use their platforms to raise awareness and understanding of autism spectrum disorder and engage in influencer marketing. You can find more by searching the web or browsing YouTube.

Are There Professional Athletes With Autism?

Yes, there are professional athletes with autism who have excelled in various sports, such as soccer, basketball, football, baseball, and golf. Some of them are:

  • Lionel Messi is an Argentine soccer star playing for FC Barcelona and the Argentina national team. He is widely regarded as one of the best players ever and has won six Ballon d’Or awards, the most by any player. He was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism, as a child and said that it helped him focus on his passion for soccer.
  • Kalin Bennett is an American basketball player who plays for Kent State University. He made history in 2019 as the first person with autism to score in a Division I college basketball game. He was diagnosed with autism at 18 months and was told he might never walk or talk. He defied the odds and became a talented athlete and student.
  • Justin Hansen is a Canadian football player who plays for the Calgary Stampeders in the Canadian Football League. He was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome as an adult and said it explained his difficulties with social skills and emotions. He also said football helped him cope with his challenges and find his purpose.
  • Jim Eisenreich was a former American baseball player who played for several teams in Major League Baseball, including the Philadelphia Phillies and the Florida Marlins. He was diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome, a condition that often co-occurs with autism, as a young player and faced discrimination and ridicule from fans and opponents. He overcame his obstacles and became a successful World Series champion player.
  • Tarik El-Abour is an American baseball player who signed a minor league contract with the Kansas City Royals in 2018. He was diagnosed with autism at three years old and said that baseball was his passion and therapy. He is believed to be the first professional baseball player with autism in history.
  • Billy Mayfair, the American golfer who plays on the PGA Tour Champions. He was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome in 2013 and said it helped him better understand himself. He also said that golf suited his personality and gave him an outlet for his competitive drive.

These are just some of the many professional athletes with autism who have shown remarkable talent, perseverance, and courage in their fields. They inspire many people who face similar challenges and prove that autism is not a barrier to success but a part of their diversity and identity.

Does Gaming Help With Autism?

Gaming can help with autism in various ways, depending on the type and purpose of the game. Gaming can offer children with autism a chance to engage in joint attention and shared interests with their peers, which can improve their social communication and interaction skills. Gaming can also challenge children with autism to use their cognitive abilities, such as memory, attention, problem-solving, and creativity, which can enhance their learning and development. Gaming can also provide children with autism a source of enjoyment, relaxation, and self-expression, boosting their well-being and confidence. However, gaming should be used in moderation and with guidance from parents or professionals, as it can also have some negative effects on autism, such as addiction, isolation, or frustration. Therefore, gaming should be balanced with other activities and interventions that suit the needs and goals of each child with autism.