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Menstruation and Autism: Navigating Challenges and Empowering Care

Puberty and Adolescent issues in Autistic kids series ( part 1)
Menstruation and Autism- Understanding & Navigating Challenges, Empowering Care through Effective Strategies and Techniques: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents and Caregivers

Menstruation is a natural and biological process, an essential part of a woman’s life, experienced by girls and women, indicating their reproductive health and symbolizing the potential for fertility and reproduction. However, for autistic girls, the experience of menstruation can bring unique challenges that are often misunderstood and overlooked.

We will be dealing Puberty challenges and Autism in our “Puberty and Adolescent issues in Autistic kids series“. And, in this blog, we will delve into the complexities and difficulties faced by autistic girls during menstruation, explore tips and effective strategies for parents and caregivers to teach them personal hygiene and the use of sanitary pads, aiming to raise awareness and foster greater understanding and support.

Understanding the Challenges

Supporting girls during menstruation involves understanding their unique challenges and providing tailored strategies and techniques to empower them with knowledge and independence. For neurotypical individuals, menstruation and maintaining menstrual hygiene still be a confusing and challenging time, but for autistic girls, the experience can be even more overwhelming due to their sensory overload and sensitivities, communication difficulties, social awareness and understanding etc. Let’s discuss these challenges one by one:-

1. Sensory Overload and Sensitivities: Many autistic individuals often experience sensory sensitivities, making the sensory experience of menstruation particularly challenging. The use of menstrual products like sanitary pads or tampons can be overwhelming due to their texture, smell, or sound. Additionally, physical discomfort, handling blood, feeling of remaining wet and in pain during menstruation can exacerbate sensory issues, leading to anxiety and distress.

2. Communication Difficulties and expresssion: Communication challenges are common in autism, and this can be especially problematic during menstruation when girls may struggle to express their feelings or discomfort. This can lead to difficulties in seeking help or describing their menstrual symptoms accurately, resulting in inadequate support and care. They may find it challenging to communicate their needs and discomfort effectively, leading to potential difficulties in expressing their concerns during menstruation.

3. Social Awareness, Peer Interactions, Stigma: Menstruation can create feelings of embarrassment or shame, which can be amplified for autistic girls who may already struggle with social interactions and understanding social norms. Coping with the emotional and social aspects of menstruation can be overwhelming, impacting self-esteem and overall mental well-being. The lack of social awareness and difficulty in understanding societal norms, that “it’s OK” to undergo a menstrual cycle and pass blood on monthly basis can really lead to confusion and embarrassment during menstruation, as girls may not fully grasp the significance of menstrual hygiene or the need for privacy.

4. Routine Disruptions: Autistic individuals often thrive on routines and predictability, but menstruation introduces an element of unpredictability that can be challenging to navigate. Changes in daily activities, hygiene routines, and potential discomfort can disrupt the familiar structure, causing additional stress and anxiety for autistic individuals who thrive on predictability and stability.

5. Emotional Regulation: Autistic individuals may have difficulty managing emotions, and hormonal changes during menstruation ( PMS- Pre Menstruation Symptoms) can further intensify mood swings and emotional instability. This can lead to increased irritability, anxiety, or even meltdowns, making it crucial for caregivers and educators to recognize and provide appropriate support during this time.

6. Self-Care and Hygiene: Maintaining personal hygiene during menstruation can be difficult for girls, particularly if they face difficulties in grooming or managing self-care tasks. This can lead to hygiene-related issues, affecting their physical health and contributing to feelings of embarrassment and isolation.

7. Coping Mechanisms: Autistic individuals often develop unique coping mechanisms to navigate challenging situations. During menstruation, these coping mechanisms may need to be adjusted or may not be effective, leading to increased stress and anxiety.

Understanding the challenges faced by autistic girls during menstruation is crucial in providing them with the support and care they need. Educators, caregivers, and healthcare professionals must be aware of the sensory, emotional, and social difficulties that can arise during this time and work towards creating inclusive environments that respect the unique needs of autistic individuals.

Effective Strategies and Techniques

For parents and caregivers of autistic girls, navigating the challenges of menstruation can be a daunting task. The hormonal and emotional changes during this period can exacerbate sensory sensitivities, communication difficulties, and coping mechanisms associated with autism. However, with the right strategies and techniques, parents and caregivers can create a supportive and comfortable environment to help their daughters manage menstruation with confidence. Let’s discuss effective approaches to address the unique needs of autistic girls during their menstrual journey.

1. Preparing in Advance

Open and honest “Communication and Preparation” is the key to help understand menstruation. For them, use visual aids, social stories, and age-appropriate, easy to understand language to briefly explain the physical changes and emotions they might experience. Introduce the concept gradually and give them ample time to process the information. Preparing them in advance can reduce anxiety and uncertainty to a great extent. We should focus on:-

a. Starting Early: Begin discussing menstruation and hygiene; familiarizing with the products, social stories and concept of menstruation with girls on spectrum before they reach menarche to normalize the topic and reduce anxiety in them.

b. Visual Aids: Utilize the power of visual aids like books, pictures, or YouTube videos that explain menstruation and the menstrual cycle in a clear and accessible manner.

Source: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Period-Social-Story-and-Visual-Menstuation-Social-Story-Autism-Resource-6742524

c. Social Stories: Create your own customized social stories with your daughter’s picture that illustrate the process of menstruation, hygiene practices, biological plus emotional changes and appropriate responses to various situations during this time to her in an easy manner.

A picture-based visual aid for Changing Sanitary pad for beginners
Image Source: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Period-Social-Story-and-Visual-Menstuation-Social-Story-Autism-Resource-6742524
A picture and text-based visual aid for Changing Sanitary pad for advanced level image source: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Visual-Schedule-Changing-a-Sanitary-Napkin-Special-EducationAutism-4067484
A social story on Menstruation Image Source: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Story-menstruation-4684767

d. Role-Play: Engage in role-playing and modeling scenarios to help them practice how to handle menstrual situations in a safe and supportive environment at home, generalising it further at various public places.

2. Sensory Considerations

Autistic individuals often have sensory sensitivities as discussed above. Hence, provide sensory-friendly menstrual products like cotton pads or period underwear. Allow them to explore different products to find what suits them best. Avoid scented or tight uncomfortable materials that may trigger sensory issues.

a. Introduce Different Products: Offer various menstrual products (pads, tampons, menstrual cups) to find what feels most comfortable for the individual.

b. Trial Period: Allow girls to feel, touch, explore and experiment with different products before their first period, giving them a chance to adjust to the sensory experience.

c. Comfortable Clothing: Encourage wearing loose, and comfortable clothing during menstruation to minimize sensory discomfort.

3. Establishing Routines

Routines can provide a sense of predictability and security to everyone. So, create a menstrual care routine that includes checking pads’ supplies, disposing of used products, and managing discomfort. Consistency can help girls feel more in control during this time.

a. Visual Schedules: Use visual schedules, planner or calendars to create a daily routine that incorporates hygiene practices and self-care during menstruation.

b. Timers and Alarms: Set reminders on calendar or alarms on their devices to remember their menstrual cycle dates and during the cycle reminders can prompt them to change pads regularly.

4. Communication and Empathy

Hormonal changes during menstruation can amplify emotions. Be prepared for mood swings and heightened sensitivity in girls. Try offering emotional support, validate their feelings, and encourage them to express themselves in a way that feels comfortable to them, whether it’s through talking, writing, drawing, or other forms of communication by keeping in mind the following points:-

a. Foster Open Communication: Create a safe and non-judgmental environment for discussing menstruation and addressing any concerns or questions our girls may have.

b. Emotional Support: Offer reassurance and emotional support during menstruation, as these feelings may be new. The overall new experience may be confusing and distressing for them.

5. Social Skills Training

Help them understand personal boundaries and hygiene during menstruation. Teach them about privacy and when to seek assistance if needed. Use visual cues to reinforce these concepts. The following tips might help :-

a. Role-Playing Social Situations: Role-playing or modeling various social scenarios, such as asking for menstrual products, seeking help, or dealing with unexpected accidents.

b. Building Social Awareness: Use social stories or social skills training to enhance their understanding of privacy, personal space, and appropriate social responses.

6. Managing Pain and Discomfort

Menstrual cramps and physical discomfort can be challenging for anyone, including menstruating girls. Teach relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, gentle stretching, or using heat packs to manage pain. Consult with healthcare professionals about pain relief options suitable for their needs.

7. Menstrual Tracking

Encourage menstrual tracking to help them recognize patterns in their cycles and anticipate emotional changes. Utilize visual calendars or apps to make tracking easier and engaging.

8. Encourage Self-Advocacy

Empower girls to self-advocate for their menstrual needs. Teach them to communicate their requirements and preferences with teachers, caregivers, or healthcare professionals. This fosters independence and confidence.

9. Encouraging Independence

By creating a supportive and informed environment, parents and caregivers can help our girls navigate this crucial aspect of their lives with independence, confidence and dignity, fostering a positive attitude towards menstrual hygiene and self-care.

a. Gradual Independence: Gradually teach girls to manage their menstrual hygiene, starting with small steps and increasing responsibility over time.

b. Visual Guides: Provide visual guides or step-by-step instructions on how to use and dispose of menstrual products.

10. Peer Support:

Connect girls on spectrum with peer support groups or online communities where they can share experiences and learn from others. Having a safe space to discuss menstruation can alleviate feelings of isolation and build a supportive network.

11. Professional Support:

Reach out to healthcare professionals, therapists, or counselors experienced in supporting autistic individuals. They can offer personalized advice and strategies to address specific challenges.

Supporting girls on Autism Spectrum during menstruation requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to adapt to their unique needs. By using effective strategies like open communication, sensory considerations, routines, and emotional support, parents and caregivers can help their autistic daughters navigate this natural part of life with confidence and comfort. Remember that each individual is different, so be flexible in your approach and always prioritize their well-being and autonomy. With the right guidance and support, menstruation can be a manageable and empowering experience for girls. By fostering empathy and awareness, we can help girls navigate menstruation with greater comfort and confidence, ensuring they receive the support and understanding they deserve. Ultimately, education, empathy, and open communication are key elements in ensuring a smooth transition through this natural phase of life for autistic individuals.

Parents and caregivers can take help from the wonderful resources on Menstruation available on https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/

Hope you liked today’s blog. Do provide your valuable feedback and suggestions.

Thank you

Author Shilpi Mayank Awasthi
Founder SpecialSaathi

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How to teach Autistic kids to watch and understand a TV program

A video blog by Pinki Kumar on How to teach Autistic kids to watch and understand a TV program

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How My Son’s Autism Showed Me Another Side of Neurodiversity

How My Son’s Autism Showed Me Another Side of Neurodiversity: Embracing Life’s Full Circle


Life often has a way of surprising us with unexpected challenges and revelations, leading us on unexpected journeys that transform our perspectives and challenge our perceptions. For me, this revelation, this transformative journey began with my son’s diagnosis of autism at a tender age of less than two years. At first, the news felt like a whirlwind, turning the pieces of the jigsaw puzzle of my life upside down. The journey that followed, filled with early interventions, assessments, and meeting new people, led me to discover an integral part of myself that I had long been unaware of – my own neurodiversity. As time passed, I began to connect the dots and see the bigger picture, realizing that embracing neurodiversity would open up a world of understanding, compassion, and self-discovery.

Today, as I reflect on the path I’ve walked, I see how my son’s autism has beautifully completed the full circle of my life. In this blog, I want to share my personal journey of embracing neurodiversity through the lens of my son’s autism, and how it has transformed my perspective on life and self-discovery.



The Whirlwind of a Diagnosis


The day my son was diagnosed with autism marked a pivotal moment in my life. Yuvaan’s autism diagnosis was a turning point in our lives. The news filled us with a mix of emotions – from concern and fear to determination and hope. Initially, the news left me feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and uncertain about what the future held. I was grappling with emotions of confusion, denial and guilt. Yet, in the midst of this chaos, I knew I had to be strong for my son and embrace the journey ahead.


Yuvaan’s Early intervention was initiated, after we sought multiple opinions from experts and doctors to ensure we were providing the best possible support for Yuvaan’s development. Throughout his assessment process, I couldn’t help but notice most of those traits in myself that resonated with me and what I was learning about autism. However, at the time, my focus was entirely on my son’s well-being, and I put aside any thoughts about myself.



The Shift in Perspective



As Yuvaan’s early intervention continued, I found myself increasingly immersed in a world of autism and neurodiversity. I attended seminars, parent empowerment programs, and various trainings to better understand and support my son’s needs. As I delved into understanding autism and connecting with other parents in similar situations, I started to see neurodiversity in a whole new light. I realized that society often perceives neurodivergent individuals as “different,” but embracing neurodiversity meant celebrating the unique strengths and perspectives that come with it. My son’s autism wasn’t a limitation; it was a beautiful aspect of his identity that shaped the way he experienced the world. The more I learned, the more I started to recognize the extreme similarities between Yuvaan’s experiences and my own. I began to reflect on my past interactions with others and the challenges I had faced in social settings. The puzzle pieces started to fit together, and I realized that I, too, might be neurodivergent.



Connecting the Dots of My Past: Facing the Truth


As I became more accepting of my son’s autism, I started to draw parallels between his experiences and my own journey through life. I recalled moments from my childhood and adolescence where I struggled with every social situation, sensory differences, experiences, or communication styles. Looking back, I could see how my own neurodivergent traits had been present all along but were never acknowledged or understood. Admitting the possibility of my neurodiversity was not an easy task. It meant confronting years of self-doubt, anxiety, and misunderstanding. Seeking answers, I took online assessments and started reading extensively about different neurodivergent conditions. Eventually, I gathered the courage to undergo a formal assessment at a reputable institute. The results revealed what I had suspected deep down – I was severely autistic and also had other co-occurring mental health conditions.



Discovering My Neurodiversity: A New Perspective



While the interactions and the whole assessment process during my own diagnosis initially felt overwhelming, it eventually brought clarity and a profound sense of self-discovery. My journey with Yuvaan had opened my eyes to the world of neurodiversity, and in that process, I had found myself. Accepting my neurodivergent identity was liberating; it allowed me to make sense of my past struggles and embrace my unique way of thinking and processing the world.

Understanding my own neurodiversity not only empowered me but also transformed the way I saw the world. I realized that neurodiversity is not a flaw to be corrected but a valuable aspect of the human experience. Every individual, neurotypical or neurodivergent, has something unique to offer to society. It’s essential to create an inclusive world that celebrates and accommodates the diverse ways our brains work.



The Ripple Effect: Parenting Yuvaan and Embracing Neurodiversity



With my understanding of neurodiversity, my approach to parenting Yuvaan has taken a more informed and compassionate turn over the period of time. In last 4 years, I have recognized the importance of celebrating his strengths and providing him with the support he needs, rather than focusing on “fixing” his challenges. Our home became a safe space where Yuvaan could thrive and be himself, free from judgment. As I continued to grow and embrace neurodiversity, I noticed how it positively impacted not only my relationship with my son but also with others in my life. I became an advocate for neurodivergent individuals, spreading awareness, and fostering an inclusive environment through SpecialSaathi. By sharing our journey, I hoped to inspire others to celebrate their own neurodivergent traits or those of their loved ones.



Finding Peace and Self-Discovery, Reinventing Myself


As I write this blog on 21st July on his birthday, I believe Yuvaan came into my life for a purpose – to help me find, discover, and reinvent myself. Through my son’s autism, I have learned not only about him but also about myself. Embracing neurodiversity has given me the opportunity to connect with a diverse community, advocate for acceptance and inclusion, and discover new passions and talents. With this newfound understanding, I began to find peace within myself. The pieces of the jigsaw puzzle of my life were slowly coming together, and I no longer felt like an outsider in my own story. Embracing neurodiversity allowed me to accept and celebrate the uniqueness of both my son and myself. It was liberating to finally comprehend the “why” behind my life’s challenges and strengths.

Understanding Life’s a full circle: The Journey of Self-Discovery


Yuvaan’s autism diagnosis was a profound turning point in my life, leading me to a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. It opened my eyes to another side of neurodiversity, and in doing so, life came full circle for me. Embracing my own neurodiversity has been an eye-opening experience that has allowed me to better understand and support my son. Through this journey, I gained a deeper understanding of myself, my son, and the intricacies of human experiences. The journey from “fear to denial”, from “confusion to acceptance”, from “spreading awareness to advocating” and now actually “fighting for the rights of persons with disabilities” was transformative, and I am grateful for the opportunity to celebrate the uniqueness of PWDs more specifically neurodivergent individuals. I have come to appreciate the beauty of neurodiversity and its vital role in shaping our world.

Furthermore, Yuvaan’s neurodivergence has not only taught me patience, resilience, and unconditional love but has also brought a new purpose and meaning to my life. I look forward to continuing this journey of growth, acceptance, and advocacy for neurodiversity, both for myself and my wonderful son, Yuvaan. The journey of acceptance and understanding brought me to the realization that my son’s autism was the missing piece of my life’s puzzle. It was the final connection that completed the full circle, and I saw the beauty in how life had guided me to this point. The challenges, the joys, the tears, and the laughter had all played their part in shaping the person I had become.

As I continue to support my son and advocate for neurodiversity, I hope others can find inspiration in our life’s story. Our life’s jigsaw puzzle may seem chaotic and uncertain at times, but every piece has its place, and each connection brings us closer to understanding the how, why, and what of our lives. Embrace differences, accept neurodiversity, celebrate uniqueness, and witness how the upside-down pieces come together to form a beautiful picture of acceptance and love.

Author Shilpi Mayank Awasthi
(Actually Autistic)
Founder SpecialSaathi
Superproud Mom of Awesome Yuvaan

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Advocating for the Empathy and Understanding of Adults on the Autism Spectrum

Autism Knows No Age: Advocating for the Empathy and Understanding of Adults on the Autism Spectrum



Autism Across the Lifespan

Autism, a complex neurodevelopmental disorder, affects individuals across the entire spectrum of age, differently, leading to challenges in social communication, sensory processing, and restricted or repetitive behaviors. When discussing autism, the conversation tends to revolve around children on the spectrum. While much attention has been given to understanding and supporting children with autism, it is crucial to shed light on the experiences and needs of adults on the autism spectrum. While it is crucial to prioritize the needs and well-being of autistic children, it is equally important to recognize and empathize with the challenges faced by adults on the autism spectrum. While the signs of autism may manifest early in childhood, it is essential to remember that autism is a lifelong condition. As children with autism grow into adults, their needs and experiences continue to evolve, and new challenges arise.

Autism knows no age; it continues to shape and influence the lives of individuals well into adulthood. Autism is a lifelong condition, and adults on the spectrum face their own unique set of difficulties that can often be overlooked or misunderstood.

In this blog, we aim to shed light on the experiences of adults with autism and emphasize the significance of empathy, acceptance, space, and understanding for this often marginalized community. Moreover, we will explore the importance of advocating for empathy and understanding for adults with autism, highlighting their unique challenges, strengths, and the significance of creating an inclusive society.

The Diverse Experiences of Adults on the Autism Spectrum



Each individual on the autism spectrum has a unique set of experiences, strengths, and challenges. While some individuals may have received an autism diagnosis earlier in life, others may have gone undiagnosed until adulthood. This delay in diagnosis can result in a lack of understanding and appropriate support for these individuals, potentially leading to feelings of isolation and exclusion.

The challenges faced by adults on the autism spectrum can vary widely. Social interactions and communication may be particularly difficult, making it harder to build and maintain relationships. Sensory sensitivities, such as hypersensitivity to sound or touch, can create overwhelming and distressing situations. Additionally, executive function difficulties, including organization and time management, may impact daily life and work responsibilities. However, it is important to remember that autism is not solely defined by its challenges; individuals on the spectrum possess unique strengths and abilities that should be recognized and celebrated.



The Challenges Faced by Adults on the Autism Spectrum



●Employment and Financial Independence: Finding and maintaining employment can be particularly challenging for adults on the autism spectrum. Difficulties in social interaction, communication, and sensory sensitivities can hinder job interviews, workplace interactions, and career advancement. Consequently, many autistic adults struggle to achieve financial independence and face higher rates of unemployment or underemployment.

●Social Isolation and Loneliness: Socializing can be overwhelming for individuals on the autism spectrum due to difficulties in understanding social cues, engaging in small talk, or handling sensory overload. Consequently, many autistic adults experience social isolation and a sense of loneliness, which can have detrimental effects on their mental health and overall well-being.

●Mental Health Concerns: Adults on the autism spectrum are more likely to experience mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These comorbidities can exacerbate the challenges they face and require specialized support and understanding from mental health professionals and the broader community.

●Access to Healthcare: Autistic adults often encounter barriers when accessing healthcare services. Sensory sensitivities, communication difficulties, and a lack of healthcare providers trained in understanding autism can lead to challenges in receiving appropriate medical care. There is a need for healthcare systems to be more inclusive and accommodating to the unique needs of autistic individuals.

●Stigma and Misunderstanding: Despite increased awareness, stigma and misconceptions surrounding autism still persist in society. Adults on the spectrum may face judgment, discrimination, and ignorance from allistic (non-autistic) individuals who may not understand their unique perspectives and needs. It is essential to combat such stigma through education and promote acceptance and inclusion for all.


Supporting the Autistic Community as a Whole


Recognizing the challenges faced by adults on the autism spectrum and supporting their rights, acceptance, and inclusion is crucial for building a more compassionate and inclusive society. Here are some ways we can advocate for the entire autistic community:

1. Education and Awareness: Raising awareness about autism across the lifespan is essential to dispel misconceptions and promote understanding. Promote educational programs and resources that focus on the experiences of autistic adults, providing insight into their challenges, strengths, and unique perspectives. Spreading knowledge about autism and its impact on adults is essential. By increasing awareness, we can combat stereotypes and stigmas surrounding autism, promoting a more inclusive society.

2. Employment Opportunities: Encourage businesses and organizations to create inclusive workplaces that accommodate the needs of autistic employees. Provide training to employers and colleagues on autism awareness and foster a supportive environment that values neurodiversity. Advocate for inclusive hiring practices and workplace accommodations. By creating supportive work environments that embrace neurodiversity, individuals on the autism spectrum can contribute their unique skills and talents to the workforce.

3. Mental Health Support: Ensure that mental health services are accessible, inclusive, and culturally competent for autistic adults. Promote research and advocacy for understanding the specific mental health needs of the autistic community and provide appropriate resources and support.

4. Community Inclusion: Foster inclusive communities that value and celebrate neurodiversity. Promote social activities and events that accommodate the unique sensory and social needs of autistic adults. Encourage participation in community programs that provide social connections and support networks.

5. Building Empathy and Understanding: Developing empathy and understanding towards adults on the autism spectrum is crucial for fostering inclusivity and creating a supportive environment.


6. Encouraging Acceptance: Promote acceptance by focusing on an individual’s strengths rather than their challenges. Encouraging employers, educational institutions, and communities to adopt a strengths-based approach can help individuals with autism thrive in various environments.

7. Enhancing Communication: Recognize and accommodate different communication styles. Some individuals on the autism spectrum may struggle with verbal communication but excel in non-verbal forms such as written or visual expression. Creating space for alternative means of communication can enhance inclusivity.

8. Support Networks: Establishing support networks for adults with autism is crucial. These networks can provide individuals with a sense of belonging, opportunities for social interaction, and access to resources tailored to their specific needs.

The Importance of Inclusion

Inclusion is not merely an act of tolerance; it is about creating an environment where individuals of all abilities can participate, contribute, and thrive. When adults on the autism spectrum feel accepted and understood, their quality of life improves significantly. Inclusive communities foster a sense of belonging and promote mental well-being, enabling individuals with autism to lead fulfilling lives and reach their full potential.


Autism is not limited to childhood, and adults on the spectrum face their own set of challenges in day-to-day life. It is imperative for allistic individuals, parents of autistic children, and society as a whole to recognize the needs, experiences, and rights of autistic adults. By advocating for empathy, acceptance, space, and understanding for the entire autistic community, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society. Let us raise our voices, support advocacy efforts, and ensure that no one is left behind on the journey towards acceptance and understanding.

Concluding today’s blog by mentioning a crucial and significant point that advocating for the empathy and understanding of adults on the autism spectrum is vital for creating an inclusive society that values neurodiversity. By recognizing and accommodating their unique challenges, strengths, and perspectives, we can foster a more inclusive environment that supports the well-being and success of individuals with autism.

Let us celebrate the diversity within our communities and embrace the fact that autism knows no age. Together, we can create a more compassionate and understanding world for all.

Hope you find my thoughts useful! So, of you liked my blog do provide me your feedback and comments below. I will be happy to reply them.

Thank you !!

Author Shilpi Mayank Awasthi
Founder SpecialSaathi

Creative representation for this blog is done by our extremely talented CreativeSaathi associate Dhrov Tikoo

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Not only children suffering from autism, their parents also need special care, know why !!

Not only children suffering from autism, their parents also need special care, know why !!

Your special needs journey won’t be the same as anyone else’s, so don’t let anyone in the world tell you what it should look like. ~ Unknown

Parenting a child with autistic behaviour is extremely challenging. So it is important that those taking care of them stay positive and take care of themselves too.
The relationship between a child and a parent is very beautiful. But sometimes children are mentally and physically healthy, but are surrounded by stress from inside. If your child is differently abled or autistic, he may be under severe stress. Also, it can have a negative impact on the mental health of their caregiver or their parents. Let’s explore how you can overcome it.

“The mental and emotional health of the person with autism as well as their caregivers is likely to be severely affected. It becomes very difficult for such parents to manage children’s behaviour, household finances, workplace and household chores at the same time. In the beginning, parents of children suffering from autism have to face a lot of difficulties. But as time passes, they adapt and learn to handle these situations.

Parenting a child with autistic behaviour is fraught with difficulties. But don’t forget that this problem can also turn out to be positive for your family. There is just a need to rise above this limited thinking to see this situation. When there is small progress in the challenges of such children, it brings a smile on the face of the parents. This strengthens the self-confidence of the caregiver of the child. In such a situation, the whole family should act unitedly. With this, the relationship between the family will be strengthened and the child will also be taken care of well. However, while taking care of the baby, it is also very important to take care of your health. If your health deteriorates, then the health of the child can be affected even more badly.

Parents of children suffering from autism may have to face these challenges
physically :

1. Family members of children with autism can have an impact on their mental health as well as their physical health. Parents and caregivers have to face problems like anxiety, depression. In recovering from these problems, their physical health also gets badly affected.Due to being under stress, their immunity becomes weak and the problem of sleeplessness also starts. Because of this, there is difficulty in concentrating on anything and remembering things. At the same time it can cause many more health risks.

2. Emotional Impact:
Dealing with a child with autism can be an emotional roller coaster. Most of the mothers of such children become mentally weak. At the same time, sometimes parents blame themselves that they must have done something like this, only then their child is facing such a situation. At the same time, this society also does not allow parents to remain normal. Parents are further disturbed due to reactions like taunting the child and commenting on the family. Also, the sympathy expressed by people breaks them emotionally instead of giving them courage. Along with this, sometimes the parent or the person taking care of the child has to face embarrassment in the public place due to the behaviour of the child.

3. Financially:
The cost of treatment of a child suffering from autism is very high. Because of this, the families of such children have to go through many financial problems. In many cases, even the insurance plans are not able to cover the cost of treatment and cure. Autism medicines are equally expensive. Many families get into a lot of debt. Which can affect both their mental and physical health.

Parents’ problems can be reduced in these ways –

1. Therapy and Counseling
Caregivers of children with autism can attend counselling sessions with the children. Where they are taught to deal with different types of emotions. Communication with the caregiver will also help bridge the gap. The use of medicines can control depression and anxiety only for a limited period of time. So try to participate in activities like counselling.

2. Be a part of a support group
There are many small groups that teach caregivers how to deal with children with autism. In such a situation, joining these groups will help in eliminating the fear inside and you will be able to accept it completely. At the same time, these groups also try to explain the problem completely.

3. Help and Acceptance is Most Important
Often the family whose children are suffering from some problem, the family members isolate themselves a little socially. If someone shows sympathy in front, they cannot accept it. In such a situation, learn to accept things and ask people for help when needed. This will help you understand the situation better and motivate you to be a better caretaker.

Author Sradhanjali Dasgupta

Consultant Psychologist, Speaker , Learning Developmental Coach, Teacher and trainer Miss. Sradhanjali Dasgupta has been extensively working in the field of Counselling and education for the past few years in several Clinics, Hospitals, NGOs and educational sectors. She also contributes her writings and blogs in various newspapers, magazines and e- magazines Her training and workshops are both for the corporate as well as for the educational sector and are geared up for learning and development,upgradation and capacity building. She have actively taken part in many debates.