Autism – let’s talk about strengths

The diagnostic process means we have to focus on the difficulties a person experiences as a result of their identified Autistic traits. This is because Autism is classed as a medical condition, and the medical model of diagnosis, therefore, focuses on what is “wrong” so that conditions can be “treated”.

There is no medicine for Autistic traits, and so the associated difficulties can best be managed by adapting the environment, and learning practical and psychological skills to cope. Identifying the difficulties someone faces as a result of Autism enables us to find ways to manage any traits that cause a person distress/difficulty in their everyday lives.

As well as identifying these difficulties, it is just as important to highlight a person’s strengths that are directly related to their Autistic traits. Often social media presents these strengths as ‘superpowers’, and whilst we also believe that the strengths associated with Autism are pretty amazing, some Autistic individuals find it offensive that their condition is described as a ‘superpower’ because their daily challenges are acutely real for them.

Research has shown that Autistic traits provide people with several strengths that we believe should be celebrated and drawn upon when trying to navigate this neurotypical world. Such traits enable people to:

• Have an enhanced attention to detail
• Have an increased capacity to deeply focus during work and play
• Have strong observational abilities
• Develop in-depth knowledge of an area of interest
• Have logical problem-solving abilities
• Think creatively to generate solutions
• Have enhanced determination to complete a task
• Have strong morals and values and never deviate from these
• Have a non-judgmental approach when talking to others
• Have a deep understanding and compassion for the natural world and an ability to connect with animals
• Present with honesty and transparency about their views

At For-Psych, we help Autistic people to learn ways to manage their difficulties and to hone their strengths. We do not underestimate the power of self-belief, and by helping a person understand how their brain works and the many benefits of this, we see a huge shift in how they view themselves, which can enhance not only their self-acceptance but also their overall wellbeing. Our coaching and therapy sessions can help a person to understand themselves better. Click here for more information.