Mental Health
-
The Importance of Legacy
This past year, I’ve been giving more thought to legacy and how we are remembered after we’re gone. It might be because I turned thirty this year, or it might be because I’ve attended more funerals this year than I have in my entire life. My grandmother didn’t want to have a service, and we…
-
The Vital Role of Parents in Supporting Autistic Adults
Speaking to the parents of adults with autism at the past symposium was particularly anxiety-inducing. My parents had attended while I was an inpatient at a psychiatric hospital for my unmanaged OCD. I hadn’t yet been tested for autism, but they and I were certain that an official diagnosis would only confirm what we all…
-
Public Speaking Growth: My Journey at the Autism Symposium
I recently presented for the third time at the adult autism symposium in Chattanooga. The first time I explained, I got very nervous. I started volunteering for public speaking opportunities at church, which helped me feel more comfortable in front of groups of people. It did feel better the second time, and I wasn’t nervous…
-
Memories from Clemson: A Journey of Family and Loss
Going to my grandmother’s house in Clemson was a staple in my life until the end of last year. My first memory of Clemson does not include being in the house. I remember sitting in my car seat. I must have been seated on the right side because I could see through the door that…
-
Unraveling the Mystery of Roanoke’s Lost Colony
I could not have been nine years old when I went to Roanoke, North Carolina, for the first time. Part of our homeschool curriculum when it came to history was traveling to places where history took place, and one of the first trips we took as a family was to Roanoke, North Carolina. I remember…
-
Celebrating Life: The Importance of Community Support
I was fortunate enough to grow up in a neighborhood where people supported one another. This is all being brought to mind as one of my former neighbors passed away recently. He had dealt with a multitude of degenerative diseases for years, supported by his loving family. I was fortunate enough to attend his celebration…
-
Memorial Day Reflections
Tomorrow is Memorial Day in the United States. At church, we were reminded of those who have died in service to our country, the veterans who have served, and the families who have served and sacrificed alongside the service members. A specific memory has come to mind for this Memorial Day. In high school, I…
-
To the Newly Diagnosed Child
Hello, My Dear Child, You’ve officially been diagnosed with autism. I want this letter to read like a welcome to Hogwarts Letter. So I got diagnosed at the age of 23, and that was after many, many mental health struggles that I couldn’t understand. For me, my diagnosis was a relief, a source of empowerment.…
-
Overcoming Judgment: A Path to Understanding and Compassion
I recently reconnected with someone I went to high school with. Until recently, I only spoke to one person with whom I went to high school. There are several parts of my life that I try not to spend lots of time thinking about. Being ashamed of those past lives is not accurate. I’m proud…
-
Emotional Bonds: My Journey with Grandma’s Cat Willow
When people die, loved ones and family have to figure out what to do with their possessions and pets. My grandma’s cat has come to stay with me. Willow does best when she has lots of attention and loves being around people. After Grandma’s stroke, she spent a lot more time at home, and it…
Living on the Spectrum 