Autism Support
From a national perspective, data proves that a huge chunk of autistic adults are both unemployed or underemployed, despite the fact that they have stupendous skill sets and capabilities to prosper in a space of work. People with autism who work in this certain environment may tend to feel a plethora of overwhelming emotions, but with the help of peer support, there is great potential to bring this issue to a halt.
Individuals living with autism could add many different strengths and perspectives to the workplace. Although, it is important to understand that an individual with autism is most likely dealing with mental challenges such as communication, anxiety, staying focused, and more. If these sorts of issues occur at work, it is important to show that you respect your fellow peer using patience and compassion.
When thinking of the word peer, what often comes to mind is someone who could be connected with who encounters similar experiences with you. Examples of these experiences may include employment, education, language, religion, and more. When it comes to behavioral health, a peer in this circumstance will be able to offer support guidance and support to individuals around them who work with these conditions.
How you may ask? There are a variety of ways in which you could support someone with autism whether in a working environment or not. Supporting someone with autism could look like helping them achieve personal life goals through simple mentoring, advocacy, motivation, and so much more. By doing so, peers are able to help sharpen skills/ strengths, and help highlight necessities by making it certain that their feelings, ideas, opinions, and thoughts are heard and respected by fellow peers.
There are countless ways in which you can support someone with autism! Here is a list of a few imperative ways to make an autistic peer feel more welcome in a working/ educational environment!
Always endeavor to be encouraging, motivating, and compassionate.
BE PATIENT! Give the person time to answer any questions, or say any responses.
Stick to a constant routine/ schedule.
Be clear with anything you intend for them to understand.. Communication is key!
Avoid idioms & slang, as people with autism tend to think critically and literally.
Understand that there is a possibility that they may have boundary issues. If you feel as though they are coming too close to you, then simply express that you need your space in the nicest way possible! Ex: “Could you stay a bit far apart from me when we are speaking? Thank you so much for understanding!”
Help them build life-changing skills through mentorship.
Gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and challenges.
BE KIND!
Autism Spectrum Disorder is in fact a lifelong disorder that has a huge impact on social interactions, emotions, and more. If you are to encounter someone with autism, it is imperative to educate yourself about the disorder in order to build strong relationships with peers, raise awareness, and give great support in a work environment.
Sources:
Best Communication Practices for Interacting with People with Autism
Feel free to state any more ideas and ways that you have to support someone with autism spectrum disorder in the comments!
