Autism / Autism Spectrum Support Group
Autism is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder which manifests itself in markedly abnormal social interaction, communication ability, patterns of interests, and patterns of behavior. Although the specific etiology of autism is unknown, many researchers suspect that autism results from genetically mediated vulnerabilities to environmental triggers.
susan19514
Hi all, just wanted to introduce myself. I'm the mom of 2 on the autism spectrum. They're both adult men. One is 18, the other 21. My 18 y.o. is very high functioning aspergers and a musical genius. My 21 y.o. is severely autistic. I joined because both boys graduated in 2014.
My younger son is working and doing great. My older son is in hiatus because NJ DDD is S-L-O-W to get him switched from the under 21 to the over 21 group.
So as of now, we still have not received any adult services (including the respite that we were used to before he had his 21st birthday - they have stopped that until they finish "processing" him - B.S.), which frankly, is a disgrace. He has been home with me full time since last June, and as much as I love my little dumpling, I get depressed because when I hear him scripting or howling or when I see him anxiety ridden, it kills me that I can't do anything to make his life more fulfilling.
I, myself, was diagnosed with anxiety disorder, and when it gets to be too much, I find myself shutting down because I can't handle it. Please don't think I'm a negative Nancy. There are tons of amazing things about my kids, but clearly I didn't join a support group because I needed to talk about all the great things they do. Those things don't overwhelm me like the rest of it. Anywho - hi!
My younger son is working and doing great. My older son is in hiatus because NJ DDD is S-L-O-W to get him switched from the under 21 to the over 21 group.
So as of now, we still have not received any adult services (including the respite that we were used to before he had his 21st birthday - they have stopped that until they finish "processing" him - B.S.), which frankly, is a disgrace. He has been home with me full time since last June, and as much as I love my little dumpling, I get depressed because when I hear him scripting or howling or when I see him anxiety ridden, it kills me that I can't do anything to make his life more fulfilling.
I, myself, was diagnosed with anxiety disorder, and when it gets to be too much, I find myself shutting down because I can't handle it. Please don't think I'm a negative Nancy. There are tons of amazing things about my kids, but clearly I didn't join a support group because I needed to talk about all the great things they do. Those things don't overwhelm me like the rest of it. Anywho - hi!
susan19514
I should add that, aside from constantly checking in with DDD, I have also contacted my congressman to light a fire under them. I'm not just sitting by idly without doing everything I can to get them moving. It's just frustrating that I have to micromanage people to do their job.
icare4u
I could understand your want to see your son feeling more fulfilled. Mine is only 7 and i just started seeing a speciallist to help me find out what is going on and what to do when he pace the floor the whole time he is home and laugh because of his thoughts constantly. Just this year he started laughing more about his happy inner thoughts and crying when they are bad thoughts like seeing someone stuck inside a tree and not beig able to get out so they died. This is one of the many things he cry about. Its a thought with images playing in his head as if it was a actual night dream when he is sleeping. The problem os that he is wide awake playing when it all of a sudden pops into his thoughts. Have you ever experiened that
monica19
hi I am new as well. I just joined today. I have a 12 year old with autism. I am just trying to find some support. My husband died and my in laws are not involved at all, in fact we haven't heard from anyone since the funeral. I am very alone and I battle with medical people and know it all neurologists and ieps and financial problems. It is not easy, you name it I have probably experienced it since this is my third son with special needs. I don't have any advice or suggestions except to tell you not to ever think you are alone . I am here to talk. I don't socialize a lot in "real life". It is very hard to bring my son to places because some of his behaviors and "outbursts" are disturbing and it's really just easier to not go.We live in a small town so there isn't a whole lot of support or places we are excepted. so I thought I would try some online support. Sometimes I wonder if my son is depressed. He just seems so quiet and inward. I know that is part of the autism...atleast I think it is. It is so hard to find answers... sorry to go on about me...I am just letting you know I can relate.
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