Every June 18th, the world celebrates Autistic Pride Day, an occasion to recognize autistic people’s unique skills, creativity, and perspectives. This day, founded in 2005 by the autism solidarity and campaigning group Aspies for Freedom, is inspired by the gay pride movement and encourages us to consider autism as a thriving element of human diversity rather than a disorder.

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that shapes how a person thinks, communicates, and experiences the world. It’s called a ‘spectrum’ because it varies widely, which means that each autistic person has their own understanding of the world. 

Autistic people tend to have their own unique ways of social interactions, like preferring straightforward communication or finding small talk tricky, and sensory sensitivities, such as being overwhelmed by loud noises or bright lights, etc. Accepting these differences is important in building a supportive and inclusive society for autistic individuals.

To learn how we can connect with and support autistic individuals with kindness and respect, we spoke to Dr Pradeep Mahajan, a regenerative medicine researcher and founder of StemRx Hospital & Research Center, Mumbai, Maharashtra. Here are the edited excerpts of the interview:

How can we adapt our communication to be clear and supportive for autistic individuals? What to say and what not to say?

One should speak in a simple, direct, and respectful way. Use clear words and avoid using sarcasm, jokes, or phrases that have double meanings, like ‘spill the beans’ or ‘hit the road.’ These can be confusing. Say ‘Would you like help with this?,’ instead of ‘Need a hand?’ If you actually mean offering help, you can be literal.

For verbal and non-verbal patients, use different techniques like making the sound of a car and using rhymes and music to help them understand. Knowing their likes and dislikes helps us understand them.

You should give them time to respond. Silence doesn’t always mean they’re ignoring you; it might mean they’re thinking. Be patient and don’t interrupt or repeat the question too quickly. Also, avoid raising your voice or changing your tone drastically unless it’s necessary. Sudden emotional expressions (like yelling or joking loudly) may be overwhelming or misunderstood. We can be supportive to them by giving rewards in the form of drawing a star or giving them artistic stickers or toys.

Parents should not force the child, as it causes them irritation and keeps them upset; understand their intellect and help them build their passion.

What sensory sensitivities should one consider to create a comfortable environment?

Autistic individuals may be more sensitive to things in their surroundings, especially lights, sounds, smells, textures, or temperature. For example, flickering lights, loud music, or strong perfumes can be very overwhelming. If you’re not sure, just ask, ‘Is the lighting or noise okay for you?’

Understand their sensory behavior and don’t force them, but create a likable environment. Keeping the environment calm, quiet, and predictable is helpful. Every autistic person is different; what bothers one person may not affect another. When you’re in doubt, ask them respectfully.

Q: How can we recognize if an autistic person is overwhelmed and respond appropriately?

They might suddenly go quiet, pace, rock back and forth, flap their hands, run around, hit the other person, cover their ears, or even seem upset. ‘Meltdowns,’ or being overwhelmed, can happen when the person’s brain is overloaded by too much sensory input, emotional stress, or social pressure.

If they are overactive to their dislike or are hyperactive, don’t force them. If this happens, you must stay calm, speak gently, offer a quiet space, or ask, ‘Would you like a break?’

You should avoid touching them unless they say it’s okay.

What social cues or behaviors might differ when interacting with autistic people?

They may not make eye contact, use facial expressions the same way, or pick up on tone of voice or body language, but that doesn’t mean they’re not listening or don’t care. They might prefer talking about specific interests and may not enjoy small talk or chit-chat.

It’s important to not judge these differences. Instead of expecting them to ‘fit in,’ adjust your approach. You should listen actively and be patient if the conversation doesn’t follow typical patterns.

How can we respectfully ask about their needs without making them feel singled out?

The best approach is to be kind, discreet, and respectful. Avoid making assumptions or treating them like they’re fragile or different. You should ask privately if possible, and don’t talk about them like they’re not there.

Most importantly, if they say they’re fine, respect that too. For example, you can say, ‘Is there anything I can do to make this easier for you?’ or ‘Let me know if there’s a better way for us to do this.’

You should avoid pointing them out in front of others or assuming what they need, always ask, don’t guess.

Also read: https://firstcheck.in/world-autism-awareness-day-myths-about-autism/