How to Support an Autistic Person During Autism Awareness Month

Autistic people who feel accepted, and do not try to "camouflage" by hiding themselves, are less likely to suffer health problems like depression. ^[22]

1. 1
   Make it very clear that you accept them for who they are. Respect their needs and preferences, and allow them to have fun and be themselves. Show them that you're here to help and support them, not to extinguish or fit them into the mold of non-autistic.

   • Help them feel comfortable being themselves around you, even if it means it's a little "odd."
   • Stand up for them if people tell them to act like a non-autistic person.
2. 2
   Set aside extra time to do things together. Play with toys on the floor, bead bracelets, or talk about a shared topic of interest. Simply being there can help them feel supported.

   • Positive interactions with loved ones can support their mental health and distract them from negativity in the news.
3. 3
   Praise their strengths. This will help them remember that they are more than a list of deficits. Compliment their skill with a paintbrush, their patience towards their younger brother, or their love of learning. This will help keep their self-esteem afloat.
4. 4
   Engage with their special interests and therapy activities. Ask them about how your car works or offer to play catch together to help their motor skills. This will help them feel that you love all of them, including the autistic parts.
5. 5
   Keep an eye on their emotional state. Many autistic people struggle with self-esteem. They're at increased risk for anxiety, depression, and suicide. ^{[23] [24] [25]} Rhetoric describing autism as a tragic, family-destroying calamity can worsen their mental health. Get medical help if you are concerned about your loved one's wellbeing.

   • Fighting stigma online is brave, but it can also take a toll. Check in on an autistic person who is active with autism advocacy on social media. They may get exposed to a lot of negative content and prejudiced people.
6. 6
   Offer plenty of reassurance. Autism Awareness Month often comes with rhetoric confirming autistic people's fears that they are burdens. ^{[26] [27]} Use your words and actions to make a strong statement otherwise. ^[28]

   • Use this month to practice your patience and listening skills.
   • Give them ability-appropriate opportunities to help out and feel useful.
   • Encourage their strengths and applaud their successes.
7. 7
   Listen to their struggles . You can do your best, but if they pay attention on social media or the news, then the anti-autism rhetoric is likely to hurt. Let them voice their feelings and assure them that the awful stereotypes and messages are wrong. They are okay the way they are.

   • Validate their feelings.
   • It's okay if you need to pause to think before responding. Autistic people understand, and this is a difficult problem with no easy answers.
   • It's okay to simply say "I'm so sorry to hear that" and "That's too bad." Sometimes that's all you can say.
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