tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59003327219302729642024-02-07T17:37:59.790+11:00Personal experiences, Autism Advocacy and other subjects relating to Autism written by BenWelcome to my blog. I am an adult on the Autism Spectrum. I was identified as having Asperger's in 2004 when i was 12 years old and I have recently received an official diagnosis. I run a small adult Aspie social group in the town I live in. I capture my experiences of everyday life, the autism advocacy work that I do and a broad range of subjects relating to Autism. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-18686194912155931652017-01-03T00:02:00.000+11:002017-01-03T00:02:00.279+11:00Getting things done: How to increase your productivity<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Welcome back to my blog! I hope to start regularly posting again. For a long time I have not posted, mostly due to getting really busy; well really though I have not been making time to blog. So here goes to a long list of many useful and insightful blogs that I hope create an opportunity for people to digest information and also to create a dialogue, after all I get alot out of writing posts by being able to consolidate and exploring ideas through the writing process, as well as gaining different perspectives by people getting in contact with me and leaving comments and questions.</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-45c4d9d6-5f34-64da-0eee-871d01014f6f" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So let me get into what I would like to talk about. I have been planning to post an article for several weeks now (since about mid November). Coming to the end of the year, I thought it would be very relevant to talk about self improvement and the like, because it is a great opportunity to review the year that has gone, and start planning for the year ahead.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Recently I have really started to self-analyse myself. What I found is that alot of the time I am not as productive as I would like to be. I put that down lack of executive functioning skills. I found that my main difficulties were:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">scheduling and time management</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">moving from task to task</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">prioritising </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">keeping on task</span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">poor working memory</span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">monitoring my mental and physical state</span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">staying organised</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So getting back to why I think living more simply is the way to make life easier. Easier in the way of making goals more achievable, and life less stressful</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I think people are in such a rush these days their lives are set on autopilot. They go from one thing to the next, or even worse try to do multiple things at once, but never seem to get enough done.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is why it is important to first take time to think about what really matters to you. When looking at my health I like to conceptualise three separate, but interrelated areas. These areas are 1) physical 2) Mental/emotional/spiritual 3) Social. You may have some to add as well. My planning process involves writing a year plan first.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Find a quiet space where you can dedicate atleast 20 minutes to this exercise. Ask yourself this, if it was your last year on Earth what would YOU like to achieve. Do you feel good by helping other people? What are your passions and strengths? Do you like to travel or do you want meet new people?</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Once you complete this you can set monthly goals and within that you can stategise what you can do each week. The trick is to break down tasks that seem insurmountable at first. If you break it down into daily, weekly and monthly goals you see that you need to focus on each step of the mountain you are climbing one by one. This way instead of becoming overwhelmed, your goals become attainable with hard work and dedication.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6bNxHVFeb-zJpbilaQLpj-8dOtINu4Uh9Mmyzjf-IjqAtt3Ovt_XnS197_l-EltCeijS9HAYodtIPUHc75OPWiAhDQGy4O8r791QcOOInVySYJsUukk8kO2dDH9Rg3iO5gKULrgfBTOE/s1600/Calendar1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6bNxHVFeb-zJpbilaQLpj-8dOtINu4Uh9Mmyzjf-IjqAtt3Ovt_XnS197_l-EltCeijS9HAYodtIPUHc75OPWiAhDQGy4O8r791QcOOInVySYJsUukk8kO2dDH9Rg3iO5gKULrgfBTOE/s320/Calendar1.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When creating a schedule there are things to keep in mind. You get the most done when a slot of time is allocated where you work exclusively on one project, free of distractions. I personally like the </span><a href="http://cirillocompany.de/pages/pomodoro-technique" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">pomodoro technique</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. You allocate each goal or project a timeslot of 25 minutes, then take a break for five minutes.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Each 25-minute work period is called a “pomodoro”.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After four “pomodoros” have passed, (100 minutes of work time with 15 minutes of break time) you then take a 15-20 minute break.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJp5Ih-ULKUUtk7jwJhIO5thyphenhyphen5gmtwxNqoCFoFlatKpXtm8scYFzUHb9-DKMfpag7rGuY83A1vKGy7kmpGYg63JGbySsCERibF-5YQQYyx3Y925t7T8Vz2Z0N_yDl_3m0CaoYnjSCVuQw/s1600/793701290837284528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJp5Ih-ULKUUtk7jwJhIO5thyphenhyphen5gmtwxNqoCFoFlatKpXtm8scYFzUHb9-DKMfpag7rGuY83A1vKGy7kmpGYg63JGbySsCERibF-5YQQYyx3Y925t7T8Vz2Z0N_yDl_3m0CaoYnjSCVuQw/s320/793701290837284528.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I find that while I work I will think of new or other things I need to do. That’s where lists come in. I personally use </span><a href="http://www.google.com.au/keep/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Google Keep</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> because I tend to loose pieces of paper. Also google keep automatically syncs to the cloud and works with android ios and as an add on application on the chrome web browser which allows windows and mac users to use it.</span></div>
<br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This first part of this blog gives you the basics of starting to organise and take control of your life. Please let me know what you think of it and any of your own suggestions of what should be in part 2. Stay tuned for the second part of this blog.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-25216577060592583582015-04-09T16:40:00.000+10:002015-04-09T17:43:53.050+10:00New Resources in Orange<a href="http://www.autismacceptancemonth.com/" target="_blank">Happy Autism Month</a>!! I have been very busy this month with work and organising funds and ordering several books to be donated to the <a href="http://www.cwl.nsw.gov.au/about-cwl/cwl-branches/orange-library/" target="_blank">Orange (NSW, AUS)branch</a> of <a href="http://www.cwl.nsw.gov.au/" target="_blank">Central West Libraries</a>. I was very fortunate to be interviewed by the local paper and appear in the Saturday 4th April edition of the <a href="http://centralwesterndaily.com.au/" target="_blank">Central Western Daily</a>. The article is below<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5CIhzrjDuuSnOi3yAUnfHfStd8NlqB-Ga_91OAEoeykGP_XTlcV5tZYca-FLgdESknuixs7lSKD8LDAlr6pCy1OFQDw8aL8EAUbrU3Pd7I3_UWVSFQLRiuCm2HHSb2slMq6qIQVXA1M/s1600/awareness+goes+by+the+book.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5CIhzrjDuuSnOi3yAUnfHfStd8NlqB-Ga_91OAEoeykGP_XTlcV5tZYca-FLgdESknuixs7lSKD8LDAlr6pCy1OFQDw8aL8EAUbrU3Pd7I3_UWVSFQLRiuCm2HHSb2slMq6qIQVXA1M/s1600/awareness+goes+by+the+book.JPG" height="640" width="544" /></a></div>
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A total of 9 books were donated including books by that were written by <a href="http://templegrandin.com/" target="_blank">Temple Grandin</a>, <a href="http://www.tonyattwood.com.au/" target="_blank">Tony Attwood</a> and my friends <a href="https://jeanettepurkis.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Jeanette Purkis</a> and <a href="http://www.garryburge.com/" target="_blank">Garry Burge</a>. Because Orange Library is part of the <a href="http://www.cwl.nsw.gov.au/" target="_blank">Central West Libraries</a> group the book can be transferred to any of the other libraries in the consortium which include: Blayney, Canowindra, Cowra, Forbes, Manildra, Molong, and Orange (for information on opening hours and contact details see <a href="http://cwl.spydus.com/cgi-bin/spydus.exe/ENQ/OPAC/LOCENQ?TYP=BR&NRECS=999">http://cwl.spydus.com/cgi-bin/spydus.exe/ENQ/OPAC/LOCENQ?TYP=BR&NRECS=999</a> . All the books are listed in the catalogue on the website also.<br />
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Some of the books that were donated:<br />
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<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/OrangeAutism/posts/1663620207192453:0">
Come and have a look at all the new Autism books at the Orange City Library<br />
Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OrangeAutism">Orange Autism Spectrum Social & Support Group</a> on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OrangeAutism/posts/1663620207192453:0">Sunday, 5 April 2015</a></blockquote>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-844448816406999112015-02-14T21:33:00.001+11:002015-02-14T21:33:35.581+11:00Gaining Strength in Networking If you are regular reader you will notice that I am writing posts a lot less frequently. I have been very pre-occupied with <a href="http://bensaspieblog.blogspot.com.au/2014/09/newspaper-article-with-my-colleagues.html">my job at CareWest</a> and I have been using my weekends to chill and refresh. As so much is going on also in my advocacy work as well, I am going to attempt to do a post once a fortnight.<br />
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This bring me to what I am doing as I write this blog. I am sitting in my car (in the air-conditioning as it is <span class="st">33ºC [91ºF] outside)</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Australian Native trees, what is outside my car window as I write this blog</td></tr>
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I have just finished my meeting with Sue, who initiated an <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lithgow-Nannas-Touch-ASD-support/581095705262560">Autism Support Group in Lithgow</a> about 12 months ago. She told me of the struggles and successes that she has had with her grandchild whom is on the spectrum and this prompted her to help others that have struggle with similar issues.<br />
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She is a very strong willed lady and I am very happy to have her come on board to be part of our network. Sue is also a passionate knitter and with her spare time she likes to create <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nannas-Touch-quilts-and-sensory-products/144223815751643?">quilts and sensory products </a>that assist with the the running costs of the support group. I also discussed with her my plan to create an informal network between the facilitators of the Support/Social groups in Central West, Blue Mountains and <a href="http://www.waggaautismgroup.org.au/Wagga_Autism_Group/Welcome.html" target="_blank">Wagga Wagga</a>, to share the vast and varied knowledge and resources that all the groups have. In the near future a regular newsletter will be distributed by e-mail. I also want to create a directory with these groups and anyone else who would be interested in their local group (sorry only in Australia at this stage) being added please contact me via the contact form on the top right hand corner of the page.<br />
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Another person with whom I have come across recently is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jeanettepurkisbooks" target="_blank">Jeanette Purkis</a>. Jeanette is an inspiring lady who is on the spectrum, who humbly dedicates many tireless hours to work benefiting us all on the spectrum (and indeed making the world a better place for everyone). I started talking to Jeanette a couple of months ago because I was told that she would be a great contact, through a mutual facebokk friend. She is doing and has done too many things to list them all here. However some of the things she has done/is doing are listed below:<br />
<ul>
<li>Wrote an <a href="http://www.footprint.com.au/product-detail.asp?SubSection=%27jeanette+purkis%27&product=9781843104162&ParentPage=product-listing.asp%3Fkeywords%3Djeanette+purkis%26scope%3Dbooks%26Category%3D" target="_blank">autobiography</a> and a book on finding & retaining work for teens/young adults on the spectrum titled <a href="http://www.footprint.com.au/product-detail.asp?SubSection=%27jeanette+purkis%27&product=9781849054997&ParentPage=product-listing.asp%3Fkeywords%3Djeanette+purkis%26scope%3Dbooks%26Category%3D" target="_blank">"Wonderful World of Work: A Workbook for Asperteens"</a></li>
<li>Has spoken at many conferences & has many more planned in the future including speaking at the <a href="http://www.footprint.com.au/product-detail.asp?SubSection=%27jeanette+purkis%27&product=9781849054997&ParentPage=product-listing.asp%3Fkeywords%3Djeanette+purkis%26scope%3Dbooks%26Category%3D" target="_blank">Aspergers Services Australia - 3rd National Conference</a> (which I will also be attending next week. I plan to write about what I learn at the conference soon after attending).</li>
<li>She is on the Australian <a href="http://www.autismcrc.com.au/" target="_blank">Autism CRC</a> (Collaborative Research Centre) <a href="http://www.autismcrc.com.au/program-3-projects" target="_blank">Program 3</a> (focusing on adults with Autism) which I have recently also become involved with.</li>
<li> Hosting an <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/positivelyautistic/2015/02/14/positively-autistic-jeanettes-autism-show" target="_blank">Autism Radio Show</a>, which I will be interviewed about Autism and employment on the 14th March 2015.</li>
<li>Writing an <a href="https://jeanettepurkis.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">insightful blog</a></li>
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As you can imagine she is very busy, however I have multiple projects in the pipeline that Jeanette, along with others, will do in the future<br />
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As I have more to speak about (almost limitless actually, I just need to plan more time to actually sit down and read it all). I plan to write another blog in a week or two so stay tuned & please contact me if you have any questions on the blog in general or anything in particular I am doing. Thanks for reading. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-1610119589890135472014-11-06T13:22:00.001+11:002014-11-06T13:22:55.306+11:00New ASD Employment Services Being Offered by ASPECTRecently (and long overdue) ASPECT, the biggest service provider for autism, has now teamed up with Vicky Little's organisation AS capable to now provide employment services for teenagers and young adults on the spectrum under the banner of <a href="http://www.autismspectrum.org.au/aspectcapable">ASPECT Capable</a>. I spoke to <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=25434677&authType=NAME_SEARCH&authToken=8KlE&locale=en_US&trk=tyah2&trkInfo=idx%3A1-1-1%2CtarId%3A1415233685614%2Ctas%3Avicky+lit">Vicky Little</a> yesterday to find more information about the direction of this section of ASPECT.<br />
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Currently Vicky is in the final stages of a project to publish "In Perspective Online Magazine" which "aims to demonstrate and share the unique talents, insights and brillianc<span class="text_exposed_show">e of all individuals with ASD". The project involved getting adults with Autism to get together and submit articles and graphics/photos to form an interesting article that anyone can enjoy reading. This has helped everyone involved improving on talents such as photography, writing and organisational skills. Best of all the money made from the program will be distributed to the contributors.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show">Vicky is very passionate about raising awareness of the strengths and talents of people on the autism and is determined to make a difference to not only people on the spectrum but also the whole community as once they are reaching their full potential they are increasing their valuable contribution to their community, a win-win for everyone. She said more is in the pipeline for the future, and the first project is just the beginning.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show">As well as projects she also runs:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span class="text_exposed_show"><a href="http://www.autismspectrum.org.au/content/workplace-training">Workplace training for employers</a></span></li>
<li><span class="text_exposed_show"><a href="http://www.autismspectrum.org.au/content/des-training-and-consultancy">DES training and consultancy</a></span></li>
<li><span class="text_exposed_show"><a href="http://www.autismspectrum.org.au/content/employee-training">Employee training</a></span></li>
<li><span class="text_exposed_show"><a href="http://www.autismspectrum.org.au/content/mentoring-program">Mentoring program</a></span></li>
</ul>
<span class="text_exposed_show"> The mentoring, which I believe which will be the most relevant to most of the readers of this blog, is a strengths based approach that focuses on developing skills for employment for adults on the spectrum. It cam be provided face to face in Sydney or over Skype. The first consultation is free with subsequent 1 hour sessions charged at a rate of $60/hour. For more information about the services offered see the links above or you can e-mail Vicky at <a href="mailto:vlittle@autismspectrum.org.au">vlittle@autismspectrum.org.au. </a></span><span class="text_exposed_show"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-35064542011841405632014-09-22T14:56:00.002+10:002014-09-22T14:56:54.290+10:00Newspaper article with my colleagues and I at my new job at CareWest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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CareWest’s Ability Links Service to help those with disability and carers</h1>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 23px;">THOSE with a disability and their carers have already started benefiting from CareWest’s Ability Links Service.</span><br />
The Orange district has a team of four Linkers, with an additional two in Bathurst and one each in Cowra, Parkes and Mudgee.<br />
Team
leader Kim Gray said the Ability Links program in Orange could work
individually with people with a disability and their carers to improve
their access to services and events, building and strengthening
community connections.<br />
She said businesses could also approach the service for advice on how to make themselves more disability-friendly.<br />
“We are there to lead them - whatever their goals or wishes are, we can support them to achieve those,” she said.<br />
“There may be people without a diagnosis who are not sure where to go.”<br />
Linker Prue McCarthy, who has cerebral palsy, will bring her personal experience to the task.<br />
“I look back now and a service like this would have been helpful to me growing up,” she said.<br />
Fellow Linker Ben Wilshire said he liked the program’s soft-touch approach.<br />
“You’re not filling out forms, it’s just a nice chat and getting to know the individual,” he said.<br />
Suzi
Welch, who became a Linker after working in disability care in the
past, said she wanted to help people get out in the world and live
satisfying lives.<br />
The program is open to anyone between the ages of nine and 64.<br />
To access Ability Links through CareWest, call 1300 227 393.<br />
Indigenous
people accessing Ability Links should contact the Orange Local
Aboriginal Land Council from October 1 on 6361 0561 or 6361 4742.<br />
<i>danielle.cetinski@fairfaxmedia.com.au</i><br />
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<i>Article originally from http://www.centralwesterndaily.com.au/story/2531437/service-provides-a-vital-link-for-those-with-a-disability/</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13785267037316245397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-40795882641352101992014-07-17T22:25:00.000+10:002014-07-17T22:25:31.193+10:00An amazing opportunity through persistent hard workSince my last post <a href="http://bensaspieblog.blogspot.com.au/2014/05/exciting-new-progress.html">last post</a> I have undergone yet again a few changes in my job situation. Well ahead (about 2 months) before my contract was to end at the retail store I applied to several jobs including to the local pizza restaurant. Three weeks before my contract ended (early June) I was offered 30+ hours a week there which was alot more than what I was currently working and the contract was soon to run out anyway so I decided to leave the retail store and just work at the pizza restaurant.<br />
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At the pizza restaurant I found that the management and other staff were very positive and helpful which assisted me to feel comfortable in my position there very swiftly. Although it isn't what I wanted to do long term I enjoyed it as a gap job between finishing at the retail job and getting a new job.<br />
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Fortunately the one day off I had between finishing work at the pizza restaurant and starting my current job I had the opportunity to travel to Dubbo and see <a href="http://www.tonyattwood.com.au/">Tony Attwood</a> talk. The most interesting point I took away from the conference is that because people with ASD have difficulty expressing themselves, especially their emotions, that using art (collages, painting, music are all good forms) can be a great way to work through and communicate their feelings. Tony also mentioned that he is working on a 10 session group therapy for people on the spectrum to deal with depression. This is so important as a large percentage of people with ASD also have depression and anxiety. Once you reduce the depression, anxiety usually lowers as a result as I believe the two are often closely related.<br />
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So now on to what I am now doing as a job. Last blog post I mentioned that I was applying for a position as an a Ability Links Linker. I am proud to announce that I now work full-time for <a href="http://www.cw.org.au/">Carewest</a> as a Linker in the Central West <a href="http://www.adhc.nsw.gov.au/individuals/inclusion_and_participation/ability_links_nsw">Ability Links</a> Team. This is a radically different new service that the NSW government is funding until 2018. Families in every part of NSW will have access to a linker. Linkers work with people with a disability, their families and carers to help them plan for their future, build on their strengths and skills, and develop networks in their own communities so they can do what they want with their lives. Linkers also work with local communities to help them become more welcoming and inclusive of people with a disability. The service has been created with an aim to help people with a disability become less socially isolated by assisting them integrate into mainstream society. It also focuses on peoples strengths and sees that, with a bit of hard work and the right attitude it is possible to include people with a disability more in society and knows there is many benefits of organisations being more accommodating of everyone in society.<br />
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This job is not just a job for me, it is the start of a great and rewarding career that will have many challenges, but at the same time be rewarding and I am very proud to have received the chance to serve my community and provide well-overdue assistance to those who require it.<br />
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Thank-you for reading my blog and feel free to leave comments, questions and suggestions.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-28479620578056277552014-05-26T22:38:00.001+10:002014-07-17T21:10:11.997+10:00Exciting new progress & Dealing With ChangeThe last few months have been very busy for me. I have recently learned that my contract will not be renewed at a local retail store. When I first got told that my contract would not be renewed I was unsure of why they wouldn't renew it and that all my good work there had not been recognised. After much thought and being at a loss as to why they would make me casual again (before I got the contract I had been there for about 4 years casually) I realised that other staff members were made casual too. The decision was structural, they gradually changed peoples positions from part-time to casual in order to allow rostering to be more flexible. Once I had realised that it was not a personal decision against me I was able to think about getting a new job and consider change. I realised that to succeed in what I wanted to do I needed to move out of my comfort zone of my job at K-Mart because if I don't make changes, everything will stay the same. I may be comfortable but not as content as I could be that I am making a real difference to what means the most to me.<br />
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I talked to Garry Burge (for those who don't know he is my mentor who first encouraged me to start advocating for myself and others on the spectrum) who suggested that I look at working in the community sector because I already do a lot of volunteering in related areas such as running the Adult Aspie Social Group in Orange, training to be a Lifeline Crisis Supporter, attending courses such as Mental Health First Aid and other advocacy work. I have since applied for a job working as an Information and Intake Officer at a <span style="font-size: small;">large </span><span style="font-size: small;">organisation that is a provider of community services. I am also in the process of applying for another position as a Ability Links Linker. This position will involve connecting with the community and referring people who make contact to services and businesses based on what their aspirations and needs are. I believe the positions that I am seeking will mean that I am making a real difference in the community and will broaden my skill base allowing me to make progress in myself and in the positive effects I have in the community.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Along with the activities I have been undertaking for a change in employment and training to be a Lifeline Crisis Supporter, I have been busy establishing a new Adult Asperger's Social Group in Bathurst. Along with contacting various people in Bathurst including psychologists, the University and various other people who may be interested I was also in the local paper (the article can be found here </span><a href="http://www.westernadvocate.com.au/story/2279162/social-group-to-help-those-with-apergers" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></a><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.westernadvocate.com.au/story/2279162/social-group-to-help-those-with-apergers" target="_blank">www.westernadvocate.com.au/story/2279162/social-group-to-help-those-with-apergers</a>/). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The first meeting of the group was last Saturday. It was a great opportunity to meet some Aspies in Bathurst and was interesting to hear their successes and aspirations for the future. We engaged well and I believe that although there were only 5 people who attended the group, that through more advertising and as time passes this number will grow in time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">As the network here is growing, Garry and I discussed the possibility of having the social groups associate with an organisation that we could unify with and therefore share resources and have a bigger voice for issues. Garry and I often talk to Stefanie from Asperger Services Australia <a href="http://www.asperger.asn.au/">http://www.asperger.asn.au/</a> (ASA) and find that this organisation aligns closely with our values and goals. I have discussed the possibility of associating the group in Orange with ASA and Stefanie will get back to me after discussing it at the next meeting of the Board. In the future I also hope to apply for funding in the future for various purposes including running courses for people on the spectrum and providing other support for members of the group.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">As you can see, I have been keeping very active in many activities. I believe that through my continued persistence and hard work things can only be improved and become better. I hope to start writing blogs on a more consistent basis so please check the blog in about a weeks time for the next post! And if you have any comments or suggestions please feel free to leave a comment below.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-84072941252088095192014-04-18T18:56:00.000+10:002014-12-10T18:38:55.429+11:00Society's Expectations<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">As with anything, there is a process that I go through when writing my blogs. There is the research, which often involves gaining others perspectives/opinions through social media and other channels, researching in books, reputable websites etc. I also think about my own perspective, all while taking notes down on paper to remind me of what ideas I am going to go through in my blog. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The original topic for the blog was society's expectations. After exploring this topic extensively I have realised that self-esteem goes hand in hand with escaping from society's expectations/norms. The problem is that the term "normal" is often wrongly interpreted to mean adequate and correct. The thing is what may be normal to the majority (which is often not questioned and just out of habit) may not be suitable to be expected of everyone especially minority groups such as those on the spectrum. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Being an individual is important as it shapes a person's identity. The role of individualism has to do a lot with diversification, independent thought, and freedom of emotion. It allows you the freedom of knowing that you are traveling under a path of your own determination dictated by your own system of wants and needs, and nobody can tell you that you are wrong because, after all, you are unique.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">On the flip side, if you spend your life trying to fit a mould you will end up losing your identity. People who work hard to conform, often suppress their own thoughts and desires in order to fit in, and eventually they simply forget these thoughts and desires. If everything an individual thinks is countered by their internal questions of "Will that make me look stupid?" or "Is that what everyone else thinks?" the person will often get into a pattern of second-guessing themselves. This results in the thoughts that are eventually expressed that is of their own have gone through a series of re-examinations and end up not being the true thoughts of the person at all.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">There are positive steps you can take to improve your self-esteem to become confident in yourself. The first step towards better self-esteem is to focus on your abilities. Create two lists, one headed "Qualities in personality" and the other "Qualities in abilities." After you have wrote down some characteristics for both ask family and friends for more qualities you could add to the list. You could use this list to regularly record times when you exhibit these qualities. When you are doubting yourself/have low self-esteem you can look at this document and be re-assured of the admirable attributes you have and even use this list to help determine how to solve issues that you face.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">You do not have to improve your self-esteem alone in fact it is beneficial to have people who have earned your trust in the process. Finding a like-minded peer group who have similar interests and/or characteristics such as a Aspie Social Group ran by fellow Aspies, a group that is based on a mutual interest like an art class or computer club can be a great way of boosting your self esteem as your qualities are recognised and appreciated more than other social situations. Spending time in nature and with animals can help by removing unnecessary sensory stimuli that can be overwhelming. Spending time with animals will improve your mood considerable as they are happy to see you and are nonjudgmental. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Tony Attwood suggests "Sometimes people on the spectrum can be overly self-reflective and dwell excessively and pessimistically on their inner thoughts and feelings" and that "there may be a need to be guidance from a psychologist or counselor" to help "acquire realistic and positive self-reflection".</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">As your self-esteem improves, you will be able to do more and more things reflecting your own needs and wants as opposed to what others think. You should never be afraid to be yourself as trying to conform will only mean that you will deprive yourself of what you are capable of and deserve. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you have any comments/questions on this article or there
is anything that you would like me to cover in a future blog post please
leave a comment.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="entry-title">
<b> An article by Autism Advocate Jeanette Purkis on a similar topic (</b><b>self-image, mental illness and body weight): </b><a href="http://jeanettepurkis.wordpress.com/2014/12/10/a-weighty-issue-self-image-mental-illness-and-body-weight/">http://jeanettepurkis.wordpress.com/2014/12/10/a-weighty-issue-self-image-mental-illness-and-body-weight/</a> </div>
<br />
<b>Special thanks to: </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Marie Lauzon</span></span><br />
<br />
<b>References and resources</b><br />
<a href="http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2077954/1/The-Importance-of-Individuality">www.fictionpress.com/s/2077954/1/The-Importance-of-Individuality</a><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span><br />
<a href="http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781849059640" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Been There. Done That. Try This! </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">An Aspie's Guide to Life on Earth</span></span></span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Image attributed to <a href="http://hrringleader.com/">http://hrringleader.com</a>/ </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://52semaspie.blogspot.ca/2014/04/semaine-50-normal-anormal-ou-juste.html">http://52semaspie.blogspot.ca/2014/04/semaine-50-normal-anormal-ou-juste.html</a> </span></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-10797454292834365732014-04-11T13:09:00.002+10:002014-04-19T10:28:15.906+10:00Aspie's and sexuality<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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I believe that the subject of sexuality and Asperger’s needs
to be discussed more and in an open way. The purpose of this post is to help
people understand the topic a little more and discuss some things that can be
done to improve outcomes in regards to relationship understanding for Aspies.</div>
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I would like to firstly point out Maslow’s hierarchy of
needs as it is a good framework to consider when looking at improving quality
of life. As seen in the drawing below, arguably sex is one of the most
important motivators with sexual intimacy and friendship being on the third
most important level. Maslow acknowledged the likelihood that the different
levels of motivation could occur at any time in the human mind, but he focused
on identifying the basic types of motivation and the order in which they should
be met. </div>
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</xml><![endif]--><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The difficulties that Aspies face vary from individual to
individual, however there are a lot of commonalities. Research into the sexual
understanding of Aspies is in its infancy however studies (and my personal
experiences and of other Aspies) suggest that Aspies are as interested sex (and
intimate relationships) as anyone else, but many struggle with the myriad of
complex skills required to successfully negotiate intimate relationships. In my
research into the subject I have also noticed that although some Aspies (like
myself) don’t have major sensory issues, others do which can make intimacy a
challenge. <span style="line-height: 115%;">AS
will also affect communication, both verbal and nonverbal, social interaction and
empathic thought. It can also cause obsessive interests, need for structure and
routine, motor clumsiness</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">People with Asperger syndrome can sometimes appear to have an ‘inappropriate’,
‘immature’ or ‘delayed’ understanding of sexual codes of conduct. This can
sometimes result in sexually inappropriate behaviour. For example, a
20-year-old with Asperger syndrome may display behaviours which befit a
teenager. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Even individuals who are high achieving and academically or vocationally
successful can have trouble negotiating the ‘hidden rules’ of courtship. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781849059640" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781849059640" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTyMsCmyK0LVdmXWMBP1JjN8QfKjfDych22VXfKMu2u4hRb9zp-e_HpTnuC_6Vp38APf2cQPkkhHl25NSUsO6r5CGNsPAtN1ADzTwfMKUWdV-WbR6sqXjoiXYTK1-JLGVD1hpqXqV-zXmD/s1600/978-1-84905-964-0.jpg" /></a> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">As Dr Tony Attwood says in the new book published by JKP “Been
There, Done That, Try This!” “Their (Aspies) sources of information on
sexuality may not be peers or personal experiences, but more likely the media,
literature and possibly pornography.” This is why specific education needs to be
provided to Aspies as more in-depth education will fill in the gaps that cause by
lack of intuition. Specific sexual education is also important to help avoid such
issues as Aspies getting into trouble with the law by acting inappropriately
(such as accessing illegal pornography or stalking potential partners) and
becoming victims of sexual assault because they got taken advantage of and in
some cases this is caused (through no fault of their own) by not knowing what
the intentions of their partner are.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843101895" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843101895" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4nT8VZDLgB4JtcXL6J13pCs2qZd3SqaZwB_lJHrDdtXb2_6Dsrsa5C8ZsIHf1lEWU-4_F0vX22JefuJYjqZ-IW1Lg-OI206o7nEYh-hm-kpBHiPMTUiE-d-nkxD9bAl9VQwjne7xzQlfX/s1600/1-84310-189-0.jpg" /></a>After searching for a suitable educational programmes that
relate to AS and sexuality I found one include many relevant topics and to be
in a group structure which will also help participants to improve on their
social skills. The program can be found in full in the book “Asperger’s
Syndrome and Sexuality From Adolescence Through Adulthood” By Isabelle Henault.
As far as I know this educational programme is the only programme to be
developed and tested and is specifically to meet the needs of people with
AS. The course includes 12 workshops,
each with its own topic. Although previously unpublished, the programme has
been empirically validated and tested in practice with four groups. The results
from these trials are also found in the book.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Through more exposure of this issue I believe that more
organisations will realise that there is a need for specific education programs
for Aspies and will look into the issue of sexuality more and develop and
refine programs to suit this need for education. Also Aspies will realise there
are resources out there to help them recognise their deficits and how to work
around them.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you have any comments/questions on this article or there
is anything that you would like me to cover in a future blog post (as I want to
write an article more in depth in the future regarding AS and sexuality) please
leave a comment.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">For anyone interested in reading about the perspective of a male Aspie (written in first person) using internet dating successfully please see Garry Burge's post <a href="http://garrysaspieblog.blogspot.com.au/2014/04/the-relationship-journey-and-internet.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">REFERENCES <span style="line-height: 115%;">AND
RESOURCES</span></span></span></div>
<a href="http://www.maxineaston.co.uk/published/AS_in_the_Bedroom.shtml">http://www.maxineaston.co.uk/published/AS_in_the_Bedroom.shtml </a><br />
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<![endif]--><a href="http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Asperger_syndrome_and_adults">http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Asperger_syndrome_and_adults</a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-87501832284269803422014-03-28T12:52:00.000+11:002014-03-28T12:52:01.917+11:00Employment Pilot Program I will report what I have been doing with an employment pilot program since a few weeks ago, (as I have been busy with work etc.). As I have mentioned previously in my blog I have been running a social group for Aspie adults since late last year and decided that employment help for Aspies would be the first project that I would focus on advocating for in the local area. Garry, who has been my mentor for over 6 months, planned to come down to Orange for a week to assist in getting an employment pilot program for Aspies discussed with service providers and also to help strengthen the social group.<br />
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So a bit more information about how my personal experiences for gaining useful help in applying and getting an interview and also performing well in an interview. Currently I am with a mainstream employment service provider. When I first joined the provider I was happy with the level of support as I was provided training to build up my confidence being interviewed and the staff member helped me write my applications for jobs. She spent the time that was needed to make sure I had a reasonable chance in gaining employment. Unfortunately a few months after that the staff member was promoted to another position and over the past year I have had about 5 different people, all who said I was perfectly capable of doing all the applying myself with no help at all. I have recently wanted to join a Disability Employment Provider (DES) but need an official diagnoses (multiple psychologists have said that it is highly likely that I have it although nothing official yet) to give to Centrelink for them to transfer me to the service I need. The need for individualised service where the staff understood me and the services I need was affirmed when I went to the service provider I am currently with, in which she asked me how long I had Asperger's. It is ignorance like this that shows just how hard it is to get services that will help people with different abilities that are little known about still in society.<br />
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So this is why I am currently building up the group in Orange, Garry taught me a-lot about how to build up rapport with the others in the group and how to get them involved in the running of it and the associated projects. When he was down we also built up our professional networks and to invite professionals in Orange to work together in the process of creating a special program for people with Asperger's to help them gain employment and work with employers to help them identify appropriate roles, provide reasonable adjustments in the workplace to make it easier for the Aspies to feel comfortable in the environment (to ease sensory issues etc.) and to understand how Aspies like to learn and work so they can alter their management strategies to get the Aspie to work at their best potential. People we spoke to include the Cathie Mathews from the Health Department and who advises the education department also, Betty Ross from ICAN (http://www.autismcarers.org/) who is assisting us in many ways including planning education sessions for employers and DES providers, Chris Lear who is an officer in the National Disability Co-ordination Officer (NDCO) program. He was able to provide us with contact details of valuable services and was very helpful in providing other input regarding our employment program. More information about the NDCO program can be found here https://education.gov.au/national-disability-coordination-officer-program<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScNfoynypRiAlQ9oh3mulx6k6tmugs-vj4MC2OQr0OPHTnZDFnQafScNw5k_5XTRx-BvgNvRCsVDCpD-c-sYCadgOS5Pt1eXM-zq4aNIXn8cEkGa85YLXAGT1Sny9Sawoj-JXPclszUg/s1600/6994795.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScNfoynypRiAlQ9oh3mulx6k6tmugs-vj4MC2OQr0OPHTnZDFnQafScNw5k_5XTRx-BvgNvRCsVDCpD-c-sYCadgOS5Pt1eXM-zq4aNIXn8cEkGa85YLXAGT1Sny9Sawoj-JXPclszUg/s1600/6994795.jpg" height="238" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meeting with Kris Lear - Early march</td></tr>
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The next step in achieving better results for Adults on the spectrum will be to grow the group, both in size and strength. I am currently organising to set up a stall in the main shopping centre in Orange and other events that will grow the size of the group. I am also organising to start an Aspie <br />Adult Social Group with the Bathurst Autism Support Group (that focuses on school aged children), Betty from ICAN and several members of the Orange group who will pitch in when they can.<br />
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As you can see I have been very busy, but with all this work comes rewards such as the Adults starting to achieve closer to their potential (including me) and the reduction of ignorance of Autism in the community, leading to better understanding and inclusion. If you have any stories of what helped you get your current job, and what services providers did that wasn't as helpful please reply to this post. Thanks for reading and enjoy your weekend!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-11332863421615097012014-03-06T23:41:00.000+11:002014-03-06T23:41:17.177+11:00Increasing employment opportunities for adults with Autism<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">A recent study by ASPECT, a not-for-profit organisation that support stakeholders and individuals with Autism, found that despite the Australian national employment rate being 95%, just 54% of the adults with AD and HFA in this study (excluding those still in full-time education) had a paid job at the time of completing the survey. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">As a nation (and other nations) must work together to improve the employment rate of those with Autism. As the above statistic shows a<span style="text-align: justify;">lthough some people born with autism go on to achieve great things, the majority of them are not given the opportunity to fulfill their potential.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: justify;">People with autism may not understand the unwritten </span>social rules that others usually pick up without</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">thinking. For example, they may stand too close to another person or start an inappropriate subject of conversation, appear insensitive, as they have not recognised how someone else is feeling, often struggle understanding irony and sarcasm, and often offend as they are often very blunt with their comments. Because of this it is often hard for us to be successfully through the hiring stage and holding onto a job for the long term.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">Although there are some issues that may arise because of the difficulties people with autism face, the benefit to employ them outweighs the issues. Some things that are being done to help people with autism gain meaningful employment include the US plan requiring all federal employees to have at-least 7% of their workplace positions be occupied by people with a disability. (1) An organisation called Specialisterne (2) <span style="display: inline ! important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">works to enable one million jobs for people with autism and similar challenges through social entrepreneurship, corporate sector engagement and a global change in mind-set. </span></span></span></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span>The low
employment rate of people with Autism isn’t because they don’t have the skills,
the commitment, or the drive, but because many employers just don’t understand
the benefits of employing someone with autism.</span></div>
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<span>Employers
need to know that it makes good business sense to employ people who are
reliable, punctual and loyal; people who have good attention to detail and
concentration levels; people who have excellent problem solving skills and can
be analytical, resourceful and creative. What good employer wouldn’t want an
employee with those skills?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="border: medium none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.31579; margin: 10px 0px; padding: 7px 0px 3px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is also a disadvantage for employers, who are missing out on a large national resource of loyal and hard working staff. So the economy is also missing out.Employers must first realise what they are missing out on, then equip themselves to capitalise on it.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="border: medium none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.31579; margin: 10px 0px; padding: 7px 0px 3px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">An effective way of assisting people with Autism in the realm of employment is to provide support searching for a job, applying and selection process and then when a job is found providing on the job support. The first stage of support would include career counseling to help the adult decide which field of employment they would like to get into and organise relevant further training if required. If the adult is already suitably qualified it may be necessary to help develop confidence, help with writing resumes, role-playing interviews, sourcing internships, placements and work experience among other things. </span></span></span></div>
<div style="border: medium none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.31579; margin: 10px 0px; padding: 7px 0px 3px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">Whether to disclose your diagnosis is a tough decision even in today's society as many people's opinions of people with a disability is negative. Much work needs to be done to improve the image of autistic's and to promote the positive aspects of autism. If you choose to disclose to a potential employer and get invited to an interview your employment consultant should identify and organise reasonable adjustments for both the interview and if you are successful the workplace. </span></span></span></div>
<div style="border: medium none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.31579; margin: 10px 0px; padding: 7px 0px 3px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"> When the applicant is successful it is essential for the employment consultant and the employer to work together. (3) The type and level of support required will depend on the person's individual needs, but could include: </span></span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">appointing a colleague to act as a mentor to the employee with autism,<br />through helping them with any issues that arise and advocating on their behalf<br />if necessary</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"> arranging general and specific autism awareness training for staff who work with the employee(s) with autism</span></span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Link 3 at the end of this post gives more information about employing people with autism including advice to help managers communicate effectively and suggested adjustments to make at the interview.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">As you can see we are starting to make some progress and there are some great programs out there but there is still alot to be done. I am currently seeking comment from anyone who has autism/asperger's to let me know what works, what doesn't and what you found the most difficult in obtaining employment and also what your employer has done well and what could be done better. I am also interested in hearing stories from parents, employers and staff at recruitment agencies and employment consultancies. Please leave a comment below and please enjoy the rest of your week :) </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <br /> </span></span></span>(1) <a href="http://floridatrend.com/article/16857/hiring-people-with-disabilities">floridatrend.com/article/16857/hiring-people-with-disabilities</a></div>
</div>
(2) <a href="http://specialisterne.com/" target="_blank">http://specialisterne.com/ </a><br />
(3) <a href="http://www.equalityni.org/archive/pdf/Employingpeoplewithautism.pdf">http://www.equalityni.org/archive/pdf/Employingpeoplewithautism.pdf</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-89489988677109004822014-02-24T21:37:00.000+11:002014-02-24T21:37:28.053+11:00Gardening For a Healthier LifestyleI was thinking a little while back of a hobby I could start that could take up a part of my day as I have found I was becoming less productive due to only working Part-Time. I settled on gardening because as far as I know there is no other hobby that has so many benefits. Not only does it get you out in the fresh air and sunshine, give you a great feeling of accomplishment watching your plants grow and mature, is good for reducing stress as it is a low intensity activity; fresh veges, fruit and herbs are incomparably more delicious and contain no added chemicals like shop bought produce usually does.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg1L9oAHr1R1np5h_8cOBOYWRY9k_HWzGK4kKNHhaCLqsYWBLeVlMQAo3qEGvhXpt4P0Q0TqWLxDhIrBwY0y1pEUDo0ARVlQz1Hds8Y69GRxt1fU13pdQ2xXzNz3PkUUyFY-BxPKqHuZk/s1600/1625717_751141808229479_1122152217_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg1L9oAHr1R1np5h_8cOBOYWRY9k_HWzGK4kKNHhaCLqsYWBLeVlMQAo3qEGvhXpt4P0Q0TqWLxDhIrBwY0y1pEUDo0ARVlQz1Hds8Y69GRxt1fU13pdQ2xXzNz3PkUUyFY-BxPKqHuZk/s1600/1625717_751141808229479_1122152217_n.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In the next few paragraphs I would like to give you some information on how to start growing plants.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You will need: </div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Somewhere to plant which will be either pots, a garden bed or a seedling tray </li>
<li>Seedlings if you do not want to grow from seed or seeds</li>
<li>Fertiliser (I prefer liquid and i put in to a watering can, but granular is also available) </li>
<li><a href="http://www.gardenate.com/" target="_blank">gardenate.com</a> (seasonal information about vegetables and herbs in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, UK and the USA) <div class="MsoNormal">
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<li>watering can and access to water</li>
<li>seedling mix for seeds, potting mix for pots, or you may need soil for garden beds</li>
<li>trowel</li>
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<li> Sticks and string if you want to grow vine plants such as beans</li>
<li> Soil thermometer to check the temperature of the soil</li>
<li> pH metre to ensure the soil is the right pH level </li>
</ul>
Before you buy your plants and/or seeds you must see what plants can grow in your climate at the time of planting. I use gardenate.com for vegetables and herbs as it tells you everything you need to know about planting your chosen seed or seedling. It informs you on how to sow (as a general rule sow seeds at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed), what temperature soil it can live in, how far to space the plants out, when to harvest and what other plants it is compatible with and what plants to avoid planting in close proximity. It also has a comments section which is invaluable in finding other hints and tips on how to grow and cook your produce.<ul>
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For instructions on how to transplant seedlings if you decide to grow them in a seedling tray and need to give them a home where they can grow bigger follow these instructions <a href="http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-transplant-seedlings.html" target="_blank">How to transplant seelings</a>.</div>
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I think the most important and fun part of the process is trial and error, you will get better with it as you get out and garden more, also if you are unsure of anything there is usually a youtube instructional video. Also I would love to get some feedback on this article so please let me know if I should edit or add anything to make it even more helpful. Hope you have a great week and may your garden flourish!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-71562689489655222642014-02-02T14:33:00.000+11:002014-02-02T14:33:11.534+11:00An Aspie friendly holiday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have recently come back from a cruise holiday and it was the best value for money and laid back holiday I have ever had. There are many reasons that cruise holidays are great for Aspies and generally everyone which I will talk about in this post.<br />
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Cruises are generally great value for what you pay for. Generally it will be around $100 per night which includes travel, accommodation, on-board entertainment which generally includes swimming pool, tennis table, live and pre-recorded music, theme nights, night club, live entertainment, food, regular tea and coffee. Some things that will cost you money, however will be alcohol and special drinks (such as espressos and mocktails), gambling and tour excursions. I recommend that you book tour excursions well in advance directly before the cruise as the cruise line will sell these tours at prices much higher than you can buy them directly.<br />
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One of the best things about a cruise is that you only have to unpack once, because you stay on the cruise overnight. Also it is great for Aspies as there is a schedule of activities on-board which makes it easier to plan your day and not get too stressed of constantly being uncertain of everything. Travel is simplified as you are moving between destinations effortlessly so you do not have to worry about driving, getting on and off buses, trains etc. all while moving your luggage around.<br />
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If you are going overseas make sure to get your passport well in advance and pay attention to the currency you will be using as it may end up being more expensive than you think if you don not take exchange rates into account.<br />
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I would love to hear your experiences on the best holidays you've had and any tips you may want to share. Enjoy your week!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-65558147525807099382014-01-08T12:42:00.000+11:002014-01-08T12:43:10.925+11:00a new way to connect: through music!Please come see what this is all about. Plug.dj is a real-time social media experience combining content discovery in a highly interactive online environment. Join the community!! http://plug.dj/aspie-community/<br />
By the way I am not paid by plug.dj to put this up I just thought other Aspies would be interested in connecting through a mutual interest i.e. music<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-40233543532216785202014-01-06T13:22:00.000+11:002014-01-08T12:43:20.970+11:00Continuation of Autism Advocacy in the New Year<div id="fb-root">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have finally got some time to sit down and write my New Years blog. I have recently went on a trip to meet Peter down in the snowy mountains where I explored the mountain terrain and even hiked along the Main Range Track which starts and ends at Charlottes Pass. It is a 22 kilometre loop which took us <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">across the Snowy River and up over Mt Carruthers towards the summit of Kosciuszko itself, then by Rawson's Pass and down the hill back towards the starting point. It was no easy task especially for me as previously the longest walk I have down was about 5 kilometres. I really got to prove to myself I am more capable than what I sometimes think I cannot do and sometimes you just need a bit of a nudge.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">So now to our teams new projects for the year. Recently we have been networking with other Autism Groups in close proximity to the Orange group including Bathurst (</span></span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bathurst-Aspergers-Autism-Support-Group/219211118092516">FB page for Bathurst Aspergers & Autism Support Group</a>), Wagga Wagga (<a href="http://www.waggaautismgroup.org.au/">http://www.waggaautismgroup.org.au</a>) and Lithgow (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lithgow-Nannas-Touch-ASD-support/581095705262560"> FB Lithgow Nanna's Touch ASD Support Group</a>). While looking around the region we noticed that Dubbo does not have an Autism group. We have started to advertise to the people of Dubbo who are stakeholders in the Autism community to come forward and assist us in establishing a monthly meeting and extra recreational activities with a focus on the outdoors and having new experiences. To read developments into the Dubbo Autism Support and Social group please see here <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DubboAutism">FB page DubboAutism</a>.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">In the new year Orange will have its own separate Adult Aspie Social Group meetings. These meetings will be at <span style="font-family: inherit;">79-81 Kite Street Orange (parking available in the </span>Woolworths<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Carpark) @ 7pm ON the 2nd Tuesday of the month starting in February 2014 on the 11th.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For the month of February we have teamed up with the Rural and Remote Autism Network to start our "Give the Habit a Flick in February" where you give up alcohol or another a luxury close to you that you spend your money on and donate the money that would be spent on your habit to charity. Please see out every-day-hero account for me details </span></span><a href="https://give.everydayhero.com/au/supporting-people-in-orange-with-autism">https://give.everydayhero.com/au/supporting-people-in-orange-with-autism</a>.<br />
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In the near future as we collaborate with our stakeholders we will have a more detailed plan for the New Year and these will be announced on the blog and social media. I hope all readers have enjoyed their festivities of the season and from the Orange and abroad team we wish you a prosperous and rewarding 2014. Please stay tuned for further updates and feel free to comment away on your Autism communities plans for 2014 or anything else that you feel is relevant. We look forward to announcing our exciting new plans in the New Year!!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-57891228315594750672013-12-09T11:10:00.002+11:002013-12-09T11:12:19.309+11:00Moving into the future with services for AspiesWith Asperger's Syndrome only being formally recognised in the DSM until 1994 and the majority of people being diagnosed as children up until recently there has been a lot more focus on children and adolescents than adults.<br />
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As of late there has been some talk and a few implementations of services for Adult Aspies as people have started to realise there are (especially now) a lot of them that require services. It is very important to have Aspies involved in the decision making processes and allow them to gain positions as aids as appropriate to achieve a sense of belonging to these organisations and have them feel as not a dictatorship but rather a helpful environment/service. Some of the services required are:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Employment - to help increase the number of Aspies employed it is necessary to have specialised employment services that understand Autism and have specific programs in place to help secure appropriate employment. </li>
<li>Social therapy and social groups. I believe that both therapy and attending a social group for adult aspies that are run by Aspies is important as it helps us improve our social skills and feel less isolated and alone. It is necessary for more adults to take initiative to start social group like I have in Orange and Garry Burge has in Brisbane. One path of doing so is talking to a local autism parents group and seeing if they can help assist in creating a social group for aspies. Social groups also help in discussing and solving other issues as teamwork can yield new perspectives and solutions better than just oneself.</li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-66057458982300974252013-11-18T10:18:00.000+11:002013-11-26T12:32:23.782+11:00Trekking4Autism<div id="fb-root"></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It is my pleasure to be inviting Peter Hosking to the next Orange Asperger's Social Group as a guest speaker. Peter is quite inspirational as he is giving it his all to raise money and awareness (which will eventually lead to more acceptance) for people with an Autism Spectrum Condition. Peter is 31 years old and has Asperger's Syndrome. He will be trekking from <span style="background-color: #f8f7f5; line-height: 26px;">Walhalla in Victoria to Tharwa in the ACT along the Australian Alps Walking Track (AAWT) (totalling 655kms), from October to December 2014, all in the name of helping people with Autism. </span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 26px;">When he attends the group later in the month he will definitely add some very useful ideas into the group like having a healthy lifestyle which aids in having a healthy mind. Getting out into nature is a great way to improve health, by being out in the fresh air, exercising and getting the endorphin's flowing will help improve your mood and help thoughts become less stagnant. Often, the best thoughts and ideas come to people when they get out from behind the desk or TV and go for a walk or other physical outdoor activity.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">He will also be talking about positive mindsets and overcoming obstacles that people with Autism may face, reaching your true potential and attaining goals that you truly deserve. Often people with Autism (myself included) are socially isolated, but with the help of groups like the one that I assist running we can all assist each other and become better people and work towards common goals. I believe that having online friends can help but its human nature to need face-to-face interaction with people (people with Autism included). If anyone has any ideas, opinions or questions about running a group or about Peter's expedition please leave a comment. <b>Peter has asked me to mention that </b></span><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 18px;"> he is</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 18px;"> needing some people to help with his trek. He needs to focus on training and physical strength/ endurance so would welcome enthusiastic people to help with media and sponsorships.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="line-height: 26px;">You can also read more about Peters Trek on his website </span><a href="http://trekking4autism.com.au/">http://trekking4autism.com.au/</a>.</b></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-14510717737248529502013-11-06T20:45:00.001+11:002013-11-26T12:36:03.556+11:00Asperger's, mental distress and a different approach to treating mental distressThe reason why talking about mental distress (also known as mental illness but I use distress as it includes more people than what a diagnoses does and does not have the stigma attached as the word illness; it implies a fully human experience) in the Asperger's community is that various studies have shown that as many as 70% of people with Asperger's also have a mental illness, most commonly depression and anxiety although there is likely a higher percentage of people that have autism also have schizophrenia and bipolar.<br />
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I went to a workshop in the week about which was titled "Navigating mental distress, supporting the personal journey of recovery". The pilot program is run by inside out & associates Australia (<a href="http://www.insideoutconversations.com.au/">http://www.insideoutconversations.com.au/</a>).<br />
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The workshop was about how the traditional method of treating mental illness is to solely use a medical approach to treat people with a mental illness creates stigma, leaves patients dis-empowered as they were dictated to by health professionals and were not in control of their own treatment. The seminar also explains how we need to move away from this, and let individuals take control by asking what they want/need, helping them reach the goals that they want to achieve, empowering the individual by handing back control to them and making them feel valuable by allowing them to be part of their own improvement.<br />
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The way we look at mental disorders need to go from being medical to being focused on the individual and looking at the distress as a wholly individual experience and treating the person as a person, not treating them as a "someone who is mentally diseased".<br />
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The seminar was on a recovery-oriented mental health services. Recovery is defined as ‘being able to create and live a meaningful and contributing life in a community of choice with or without the presence of mental health issues’.<br />
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Recovery-oriented approaches offer a transformative conceptual framework for practice,<br />
culture and service delivery in mental health service provision. The lived experience and insights of people with mental health issues and their families are at the heart of recovery-oriented culture. The concept of recovery was conceived by, and for, people living with mental health issues to describe their own experiences and journeys and to affirm personal identity beyond the constraints of their diagnoses.<br />
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Recovery-oriented approaches recognise the value of this lived experience and bring it together with the expertise, knowledge and skills of mental health practitioners, many of whom have experienced mental illness in their own lives or in their close relationships. Recovery approaches challenge traditional notions of professional power and expertise by helping to break down the conventional demarcation between consumers and staff. Within recovery paradigms all people are respected for the experience, expertise and strengths they contribute.<br />
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Recovery-oriented approaches focus on the needs of people who use services rather than on<br />
organisational priorities.<br />
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More information about recovery can be found here (these are also the source for part of this blog post)<br />
<a href="http://www.ahmac.gov.au/cms_documents/National%20Mental%20Health%20Recovery%20Framework%202013-Policy&theory.PDF">http://www.ahmac.gov.au/cms_documents/National%20Mental%20Health%20Recovery%20Framework%202013-Policy&theory.PDF</a><br />
<a href="http://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/file/downloads/pdf/Destination%20Recovery_FINAL_low%20res.pdf">http://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/file/downloads/pdf/Destination%20Recovery_FINAL_low%20res.pdf</a><br />
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I am in agreeance with this approach and believe that it will help alot more people have better outcomes. This is a great start for people with an Autistic Spectrum Condition however, as there are quite a number of differences between non-autistic and autistic people such as the difficulties of recognising their own and others emotions, we often appear to lack empathy however the opposite is often the case that we feel very strong emotion which often confuses and overwhelms us.<br />
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As I have not found a lot of information I would like to get some thoughts from you on what I should put in my next post which will focus on what people with Asperger's need to cater for their specific needs in the way with dealing with co-morbid conditions, especially anxiety and depression, but any suggestions on this topic are more than welcome.<br />
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Thank-you for reading my blog and if you like my work please support it by giving it a plus1, sharing it on facebook and twitter. If you want to you can follow me on twitter (@AutismOrangeAus).Stay tuned for the next update.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-18225802431703714882013-10-30T16:45:00.000+11:002013-11-26T12:32:55.801+11:00Females and Aspergers Syndrome<div id="fb-root"></div>
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As promised I am publishing a blog about females and Asperger's. I thought the best way to explain Aspie girls is to have someone with more knowledge than me in this area. I would like to share with you a video by Willow. The video is about her personal experience as an Aspie and her thoughts on girls on the spectrum.<br />
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Willow is a young woman with<a href="http://www.willowhope.com/pages/what-is-aspergers-syndrome" target="_blank" title="What Is Aspergers Syndrome by WillowHope"> Aspergers Syndrome</a>,
Attention Deficit Disorder, Dyspraxia and Dyscalculia. She runs a
YouTube page and a forum where she aims to help other people on the
spectrum. You can find more about her on her website: <a href="http://www.willowhope.com/">http://www.willowhope.com/</a><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/sFe8UHLCRJc?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Would love to know your thoughts on this subject, especially what you think about the ratio of females to males diagnosed and the general difference in behaviour between males Aspies and female Aspies.<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog and stay tuned for more updates!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">This week's post is my first guest post which is written by Garry Burge who was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome 1998 by Dr Tony Attwood. Garry is heavily involved in Autism Advocacy and has started a group for Adults with Asperger's where he resides in Brisbane. Garry has been my mentor since he first contacted me a few months ago. Since then he has supported and encouraged me with my advocacy work, most notably helping me with creating a social group for Aspie Adults in Orange. His blog with further information about him and the great work that he and others are doing is here </span><a href="http://garrysaspieblog.blogspot.com.au/">http://garrysaspieblog.blogspot.com.au/</a>. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Over the past month I have been in touch with other adults on the Autism Spectrum on skype. It is with great news that my contact with Ben Wilshire has been very productive. Ben is an adult on the Autism Spectrum based in Orange, New South Wales in Australia. Ben like so many adults has a lot of potential and energy but finds the labor market a real struggle. The many adults I come into contact with are finding employment support difficult. Either employment consultants from Disability Employment Agencies are not turning up, not getting back to clients or just unable to assist adults with Autism to get employment. These factors have made me wonder whether the group I run and am involved with should take action! Is it possible that employers can be contacted with the positives of employing someone on the Autism Spectrum as possible? The group now has many adults in attendance and it is hoped overtime that important responsibilities and commitments can be delegated. However this needs to be done in a way that brings out the potential of adults. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCgrC3-EAnCN2JolXNJXo6FBuqcKUymEC3lkvNYhyphenhyphengyXRgo9YDPsvpSW8xAahR6Ux8eId9NxCM6XXejO9x4iyDYmnP3olpUo-dB0Al6kdnAv3tozDpjJflQddxg34RhgMhXgLw3nWRcUA/s1600/working-together.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCgrC3-EAnCN2JolXNJXo6FBuqcKUymEC3lkvNYhyphenhyphengyXRgo9YDPsvpSW8xAahR6Ux8eId9NxCM6XXejO9x4iyDYmnP3olpUo-dB0Al6kdnAv3tozDpjJflQddxg34RhgMhXgLw3nWRcUA/s320/working-together.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Getting back to my earlier post concerning Ben in Orange. I have worked with Ben to encourage him to take on an advocacy role and it is one that I believe he is doing very well. He now runs a group in Orange and this group is very important for rural New South Wales. Regional Australia needs a big boost in terms of awareness and services for adults on the Autism Spectrum and Ben is doing a great job at providing a start. The Brisbane and Orange groups are now working together and the Facebook group is now bringing in the help of others to spread the word of Autism and to work with the adults. The group is a means of entering the Aspie world and for the outside world to see us positively and not as the often negative betrayal that is seen mostly in the media. We have been somewhat disappointed that a newspaper article didn't go into the Courier Mail but there are more important things at the moment. The work of Damian Santomauro is also important within Australia, especially Brisbane and like the many adults we have here, more of a focus on who we are and what we can achieve is essential.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">The group in Brisbane has a lot of potential but currently I am trying to work through the many facets of a foundation base before important tasks need implementation. The most important of these is dealing with the lack of services for adults. Quite simply if you feel socially isolated and in need of friends, you have no choice but to put up with the 'me society' and to be referred to a psychiatrist or psychologist who will recommend medication or referral to some specialist who indicates that we are broken and need fixing. Instead I would like to think that society needs fixing. A fixing in accepting Autism as a fact of life and to work with Autistic people rather than box or label them. Of course this involves a lot of work but something that can be achieved with optimism. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">I would like to conclude by saying that I am working very hard with other adults to look at ways of moving this country forward in a positive direction with Autism. It would be also good one day to entertain the idea of an Autism Act which was introduced into the UK Westminster Parliament and passed and that only needs a Member of Parliament to put forth a Private Member's Bill. Until then let us remain optimistic about the path forward.</span>
<div class="fb-like-box" data-href="http://www.facebook.com/GARRYBURGE.AS" data-colorscheme="light" data-show-faces="true" data-header="true" data-stream="false" data-show-border="true"></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-78900527831214949482013-10-15T09:25:00.000+11:002013-10-15T09:58:42.847+11:00Accommodations/considerations for those with Asperger's Syndrome<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Society has become accustomed to considering people with a physical impairment and then accommodating those needs by incorporating features into buildings such as ramps, lifts and disabled car-parking spaces). Now is as good a time as any to consider those with Asperger's Syndrome in areas such as Employment, Education. (When I come up with a few more areas I will write another blog post on them). As people vary with their requirements what one Aspie requires isn't quite the same as what another Aspie requires it would make sense to discuss with the individual on whether the accommodations are suitable and whether any other reasonable accommodations can be made to assist with them reaching their full potential.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Employment</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Unfortunately an Australian survey has found that only 54% of adult Aspies are in paid employment. With more employers understanding this demographic combined with accommodations such as those listed below it is possible to employ many more Aspies as most want to, and are capable of, working.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Examples of accommodations that can be made to assist Aspies include:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Including a section on the application form for the applicant to provide information about any adjustment they may require during the recruitment process and the workplace to help overcome potential barriers or disadvantages.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let interviewees know in advance of the interview who will be on the panel, exactly where the interview will be held and what they can expect to happen during the interview itself. It is also good practice to ask the interviewee if they need you to make any adjustments to the room itself - for example, to the lighting</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During the interview it is important to adjust the type and wording of questions you ask in order to give Aspies an opportunity to demonstrate their ability. This can be done by asking clear and concise questions as opposed to hypothetical or abstract questions and avoiding idioms and abstract language.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Raising staff awareness of the employee with autism’s particular strengths</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Being clear about your expectations of the employee</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not making assumptions</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A great resource (of which I got the aforementioned accommodations from) about employing people with Autism/Asperger's Syndrome can be found here: <a href="http://www.equalityni.org/archive/pdf/Employingpeoplewithautism.pdf">http://www.equalityni.org/archive/pdf/Employingpeoplewithautism.pdf</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Education</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most students with Asperger's disorders are eager to learn, however as many have sensory issues and require to be taught in a way they better understand, their specific needs should be taken into consideration.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Examples of changes made to the learning environment/teaching methods include:</span><br />
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<li><span style="line-height: 16.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If they are light sensitive, seat them away from the bright windows.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 16.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If they are noise sensitive, seat them away from the door or hallway noise.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 16.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have a quiet area for the student to use for seat work when needed. This would provide a quiet, non-visually stimulating area to allow better concentration.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 16.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Make sure to utilize the interest areas of the student to keep him/her involved in the activities. Everyone learns better if lessons are somehow connected to an interest area. If the student likes dinosaurs or the solar system, work that topic into the day, even if it is for a reward.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 16.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When under stress, ask if the student would like to leave for a few moments</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 16.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Provide step-by-step written instructions</span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16.5px;">The resources I used for information on education accommodations are </span><a href="http://www.autism-help.org/education-sensory-autism.htm">http://www.autism-help.org/education-sensory-autism.htm</a> and <a href="http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/styles/iidc/defiles/IRCA/Academic%20Supports%20for%20College%20Students%20with%20an%20Autism%20Spectrum%20Disorder%20%20Quick%20Overview.pdf">http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/styles/iidc/defiles/IRCA/Academic%20Supports%20for%20College%20Students%20with%20an%20Autism%20Spectrum%20Disorder%20%20Quick%20Overview.pdf</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These are quite useful and contain more information.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am sure there are other areas that I could cover however am going through writers block at present. If you have any suggestions for what other areas I can cover in a blog in the future please message me or leave a comment. Also if you have any comments on this blog please write them in the comments as I would love to know peoples opinions on this topic. </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-16579714857388653432013-10-07T22:45:00.001+11:002013-10-07T22:45:42.854+11:00A letter to the media about Asperger's Syndrome and the support that is needed to improve the employment rate of Aspies<div class="MsoNormal">
My name is Ben Wilshire and I have Asperger’s Syndrome. I
live in Orange NSW and have recently started a social group in my local
community to lessen the isolation that many Adults feel, that are on the Autism
Spectrum. The meetings are a great place for other adults on the spectrum to be
themselves and talk about what is important to them and having people who can
relate to the situations that they are going through. You can read more about <o:p></o:p></div>
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Garry Burge, who I often collaborate with, has suggested
that I provide you with statistics on various areas which need to improve in
relation to Adults on the autistic spectrum. I would like to cite my source as
a study titled “We Belong” ( the full report can be found here: <a href="http://www.autismspectrum.org.au/images/Final_We_Belong.pdf">http://www.autismspectrum.org.au/images/Final_We_Belong.pdf</a>)
which was conducted by Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), to better understand
the experiences, needs and aspirations of people on the autism spectrum who do
not have any intellectual impairment. A survey of people with Asperger’s or HFA
and their families or carers found that more than 70 per cent of respondents
are not receiving enough support to meet their needs in key life areas
including social skills development, access to employment and community
participation. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In stark contrast to the Australian employment rate of 95%,
just 54% of adults in the study (excluding those in full-time education) had a
paid job and the most common response to why they don’t have employment is
because they need more support to look for work and apply for jobs. This is
despite the fact that 80% of the adults have commenced or completed a tertiary
qualification and have an average or above average IQ. Employment Service
Providers have emphasised that ongoing support is as equally as important as
help to enter the workforce. They have put particular emphasis on developing
their social awareness and communication skills, as well as educating
co-workers about autism. <o:p></o:p></div>
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With the right support from employment services and
employers, and the two co-operating together, the rate of meaningful, paid
employment for Adults with Asperger’s Syndrome will increase which will have
many benefits including: a valuable contribution to the workplace by people
with unique talent, a sense of being a productive member of society for the
adults and a greater amount of independence and increased positive
opportunities.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thank-you for allowing me the opportunity to contribute to
your article. I hope to hear from you soon.</div>
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Kind Regards,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Benjamin Wilshire<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-86803521872740203532013-09-29T00:11:00.003+10:002013-09-29T00:16:29.049+10:00An update on the progress I am making in Autism Advocacy in my local area<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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about a month ago for the first time as I had finally got around to finding out
more about the group. I had talked to the group organiser before hand and he
had informed me that other adults with my condition would be there. When I
attended however I realised that something more was needed. This group seemed
to be pre-occupied only by parents and issues with their school-aged children.
Now I definitely think there is a place to have support for the parents however
I identified a gap where work was needed to improve the group. This gap was to
have some meetings or separate meetings especially for the socialisation of the
people affected by Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC).</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">I knew for this to happen I would have to advertise
the group specifically for people on the spectrum to come along. I approached
the two local newspapers and was interviewed and my story published the week
after. (You can read one of the articles here: <a href="http://www.centralwesterndaily.com.au/story/1777482/breaking-down-social-barriers/"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.centralwesterndaily.com.au/story/1777482/breaking-down-social-barriers/</span></a>).
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">The Thursday just passed I held the group meeting.
It was exhausting as parts were emotionally charged however I managed to get
alot out of the meeting. The time spent on preparing the agenda was well worth
it as I had a few questions answered and it kept the conversation fairly on
topic. The main question that I asked the individuals with Aspergers at the
meeting was "what do you want to get out of attending the group?".</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">There were multiple elements that the Adults
with AS (Asperger’s Syndrome) who attended the meeting identified as important
to include in the group. These were:</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">·</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"> </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">Share their experiences with other people with the
same condition</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">·</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"> </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">Build relationships with each other</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">·</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"> </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">Learn more about AS</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnOGmu_YFT3I91nc3vjI58HUYaW21VDtSupHWpSq7j4nnFXarA1SQSuGNJIW3YMKxifjB-9TqQ54YwYSn41_AeY2CeLeMLn14mM5_3CS-3MTYONIOx04HRE-AK_W25liAY-wiF69SGvbg/s1600/894738_675606372449690_7443939_o+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnOGmu_YFT3I91nc3vjI58HUYaW21VDtSupHWpSq7j4nnFXarA1SQSuGNJIW3YMKxifjB-9TqQ54YwYSn41_AeY2CeLeMLn14mM5_3CS-3MTYONIOx04HRE-AK_W25liAY-wiF69SGvbg/s320/894738_675606372449690_7443939_o+(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A local park in the beautiful city in which I live :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: .4pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">It was also
mentioned that as AS is only just becoming better known and understood it is
important for them to learn more about themselves and learning how to cope with
social in social situations.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: .4pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">My next project is
to assist running the next group meeting in October and to organise and
run a fundraising event for people with ASC's. The purpose will not only be to
raise funds for Autism but also to raise awareness and gain acceptance by the
wider community, What I am needing to do now is to assess the needs of my local
peers with ASC and determine (with the help and guidance from the group as a
whole) to determine where the money will be best spent. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"> I want to be able to take my idea to a charity that supports people
with ASD and make a proposal to where my donated money will go so I do not have
to go through the process of creating a new, separate legal entity.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
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<![endif]--><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-68050528501645499782013-09-01T13:11:00.003+10:002013-09-01T13:20:19.961+10:00A draft letter that can be customised for writing to the media on Aspergers AdvocacyThere are many ways of engaging the community for the purpose of Advocating Asperger's Syndrome(AS)/High Functioning Autism(HFA) such as starting a social group for people with HFA/AS or fundraising for a charity that is focused on helping people on the spectrum. The following is to give you ideas on how to approach the media and other people so you you come across clear and people understand what you are about.<br />
<br />
Introduction paragraph.<br />
This will tell people about the event or group or similar that you are going to be doing.<br />
Something like:<br />
To (name),<br />
<br />
I am writing this letter to inform you about a social group that I am setting up for Adults with Asperger's Syndrome (AS) and High Functioning Autism (HFA). I myself have the condition and want to help others and myself with feel socially included and feel less like the odd-one-out.<br />
<br />
Include a bit of information on what AS/HFA is <br />
<br />
Asperger’s syndrome is a hidden disability.
Physically, individuals appear perfectly normal. Their cognitive intelligence
is average or higher. Yet they have great difficulty interpreting everyday
social cues such as facial expressions or body language. As a result, they often
impinge on others. Typically, they stand too close, interrupt conversations and
continue to speak whether or not anyone is interested. Unfortunately as not many people know about the condition this causes us to often be ostracised from many people.<br />
<br />
Write about the group/event you are hosting:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDTRuz_0wnpq5YOi2PfSb3Dc-e-O1OjCUUAYYi_I4zJTDCmJrhOqfwcrOTtJD3mjxRPf7MyomgU-Ocr0fPxje17_p421NEMxl6I0TqKaTYhLPoryH0KPEaVxrHR3JjyeTt1w_r7luEhbw/s1600/letter1-300x296.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDTRuz_0wnpq5YOi2PfSb3Dc-e-O1OjCUUAYYi_I4zJTDCmJrhOqfwcrOTtJD3mjxRPf7MyomgU-Ocr0fPxje17_p421NEMxl6I0TqKaTYhLPoryH0KPEaVxrHR3JjyeTt1w_r7luEhbw/s1600/letter1-300x296.gif" /></a>The group will have its first meeting at (place) (time). Any interested people are welcome to attend.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading (conclusion)<br />
<br />
Thank-you for taking the time for reading my correspondence. Please let me know if you have any queries and I hope that you will be able to support my group by advertising it in (name of media).<br />
<br />
Yours Sincerely<br />
<br />
Benjamin Wilshire<br />
<br />
(also dont forget to put your contact details in so they contact you) <br />
<br />
I hope you find this post provides a bit of an idea of how to write a letter to Advocate Asperger's and would love you to leave a comment if you have any ideas on this.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900332721930272964.post-14163020483624865932013-08-20T09:27:00.002+10:002013-08-20T09:27:45.326+10:00What i do to stay healthy and feeling goodResearch has shown that mental health and physical health is closely linked. This is shown in many ways, like people who are more optimistic about their outlook on their ailment, on average, recover faster than those who are pessimistic.For this reason I believe that the best approach of looking after yourself should equally include physical and mental improvements/activities.<br />
<br />
One of the most important things we can do is sleep well. Sleep is important as it allows the body to re-cooperate and repair itself. The best way to ensure you get the amount of sleep you need (this varies between person to person, however it is usually around 8 hours) is to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, or at least as much as you can, avoid alcohol and caffeine so to make sure you are not majorly affected by these as they can disrupt sleep, have a relaxing bedtime routine (I personally enjoy having a bath with Epsom salts that detoxifies the body and relaxes your muscles or read a book), don't use electronic devices 30 minutes before bed and make sure your bedroom is slightly cool, quiet and your bed is comfortable.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2NInvrWHc7HPKZVz6e0FyhEoorneTQWKXDHiLnQrgVSi3qg7rJxXVfPPnZ2HzAkrfd9Qhr_4ArP1OcnRBLOvAeggGbAAuIhz32Wp837WAJktvgAcia9Xn5jitQCL_fSf8iUgfydQwlw/s1600/WP_20130818_002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2NInvrWHc7HPKZVz6e0FyhEoorneTQWKXDHiLnQrgVSi3qg7rJxXVfPPnZ2HzAkrfd9Qhr_4ArP1OcnRBLOvAeggGbAAuIhz32Wp837WAJktvgAcia9Xn5jitQCL_fSf8iUgfydQwlw/s400/WP_20130818_002.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Eating well ensures that your body gets what it needs to function correctly. I try to make sure I eat a variety of foods and get a variety of different coloured veges and fruit on my plate, I also use the food pyramid as a guide on how much of a certain food group I consume. The best way to eat is to eat more kilojoules during the start of the day and less nearing the end of the day as your metabolism is faster at the start of the day. It is best to eat snacks between meals as this helps to keep your metabolism steady and may help you eating more because you are very hungry when it comes to meal time.<br />
<br />
I know that social interaction is difficult with those on the spectrum as I struggle almost daily with interacting with people however it is still just as important for us Aspies to get a daily dose of connecting with other people. Attending an Aspie social group, joining a (or a few) facebook groups and engaging in the discussions and volunteering are all good ways of finding an opportunity to connect with people.<br />
<br />
Exercising (my personal favourites are swimming and walking) helps with keeping your weight under control, improves mood (it works wonders to go for a session to make you feel less angry or upset) and assists with sleep. Aim for at-least 30 minutes a day and you will notice a positive difference in yourself if you don't regularly exercise.<br />
<br />
I'm sure there are other things that are great for your health. If you have any thing to add that you do yourself please write in the comments below and thanks for reading my blog.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14654700183794302429noreply@blogger.com0