The world needs all kinds of minds.”
– Temple Grandin (Renowned Autistic Scientist)
Introduction
As a student therapist, I have worked with many cases that have affected me deeply, but none compare to the case I recently had with a young male patient who, at the age of twenty-three, was discovered wandering the streets after going missing from his home for twelve years. In addition to illuminating the nuances of autism, his return trip home also emphasized the value of familial understanding and support in assisting those on the autistic spectrum in overcoming the obstacles they face on the daily.
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. It’s a spectrum disorder, meaning individuals can vary widely in their symptoms and severity. For this young man, let’s call him James, his journey with autism began early in his childhood. However, despite his family’s best efforts to provide him with support, James walked out of the house one day to go outside to play and never returned. He was 11 years old at the time.
For twelve long years, his family endured the anguish of not knowing where their son was or if he was even alive. His father informed us that they looked for him everywhere, in hospitals and even mortuaries, to no avail. Meanwhile, James was out in the world, somehow managing with his unique perspective and coping mechanisms. When he was finally found, he was a grown man, and although he still looked like he was 14 years old, in many ways, he was still that lost child from years ago.
Therapy as an Intervention
When James was brought to the hospital, he was smiling, oblivious to the anguish his father and brother were undergoing. They had numerous questions that were not being answered. Reintegrating James into his family and society was not a simple task. His prolonged absence had created a significant gap in communication and understanding between him and his family. Moreover, the changes that had occurred within his family during his absence, such as his mother’s death, added another layer of complexity to the situation.
“Autism is not a tragedy. Ignorance is the tragedy.”
– Dr. Kerry Magro (Autism Advocate, Author)
One of the biggest challenges faced by children with autism is social interaction. They often struggle to understand social cues and norms, which can lead to feelings of isolation and alienation. For James, he lacked a sense of danger so much that when he was picked up by a stranger and taken away from home, he did not realize the impact. He had been away from his family for so long, and he had to relearn who his family members were, how to interact with them, and how to understand their emotions, which was akin to navigating a foreign land.
“Neurodiversity is a form of human variation that includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and Tourette Syndrome. These are not disabilities but different ways of processing information, relating to the world, and learning.”
Judy Singer (Psychologist)
However, with patience, empathy, and the help of therapy, James and his family began the journey of rediscovering each other. Communication was key in this process. They started small, with simple interactions, and gradually worked their way up to more complex conversations. Through therapy sessions, Alex learned coping strategies to manage his anxiety and sensory sensitivities, which had often overwhelmed him in social situations. It was also discovered that he was good at mechanical work, and his father made the decision to enroll him in a local garage for an apprenticeship in mechanical work.
But the journey didn’t end there. World Autism Day, celebrated on April 2, 2024 served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing support and understanding needed for individuals like James. It’s a day to raise awareness about autism, promote acceptance, and advocate for the rights of individuals on the spectrum.
World Autism Day offers families of children on the spectrum a chance to take stock of their journey and reaffirm their dedication to helping their loved ones. It is a day to recognize their struggles and celebrate their individual accomplishments and strengths.
So, how can families best support a child with autism? Firstly, by educating themselves about the disorder and understanding its impact on their loved one. Patience, empathy, and acceptance are crucial in fostering a supportive environment where individuals with autism can thrive. Seeking out therapy and support groups can also provide invaluable resources and guidance for both the individual with autism and their family.
As for James, his journey is far from over, but he’s come a long way from the lost boy who disappeared twelve years ago. With the unwavering support of his family and the guidance of dedicated therapists, he’s slowly but surely finding his place in the world, one step at a time. And on this World Autism Day, his story serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of individuals on the autism spectrum and the power of love and understanding to help them reach their full potential.
“Let’s focus on what people with autism can do, rather than what they can’t.” – National Autistic Society
National Autistic Society
#WorldAutismDay
