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.

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WENDYT 04/02/2008

I have had trouble finding an Autism Support group in my area (Western NY). My definition of a support group is one where parents discuss each others problems and experiences with their Autistic children, and can compare notes, even cry on each other's shoulders if they need to!!! (Kind of like what people do here on Daily Strength, which, by the way, is very helpful). My daughter (3 1/2) attends a preschool for children with developmental disabilities, and they have a Parent group. The problem is that it is NOT a support group. They provide lots of useful info. about workshops and programs on Autism, and even recreational opportunities for children with disabilities- but they have their own agenda. Last time I was there, I stood up and announced that I needed support, and no one even came over and hugged me, for ex. Do any of you have the kind of support / discussion group(s) in your area that I have described? If not, have you ever thought of starting one? How would you go about it? I really could use this kind of support. Sometimes I really feel like I am at the end of my rope with my daughter. I start getting frustrated with her and raise my voice. Then I hate myself for it, and feel like I'm a horrible parent.

Thanks

Wendy

Olismom 04/02/2008

I only have this group! It is good for me. There are always knowledgeable people on, not bragging, but you have tons of references in the archives!

deleted_user 04/02/2008

I am slowly seeking out parents from my immediate neighbourhood. I know of 6-7 families. I have received some leads also from my Early Interventionist who wanted to connect me to families who were discharged for age, but still needed support. We're all busy but we talk by phone and 3 + me are meeting at a coffee house this week.

deleted_user 04/02/2008

I have this group, my (adult)daughter & (by phone) my sister. I try not to lean on my daughter too much because she has her own stuff but that fact that she's close is a big help.

deleted_user 04/04/2008

Dear Wendy,
I feel the same way you do. I live in Northern NY, about 15 mins. from the border. I am in desperate need of a good support group! I am having a hard time even finding one that i don't have to drive hours to attend. There are days that i just sit alone and cry because of my frustration over this disorder and the lack of help that should be provided. Maybe you and i could talk out our frustrations together:)

deleted_user 04/04/2008

You could create an Autism support Group for NY right here on DS using the new Group tools and use it as a springboard for in-person meetings. Just a thought.

MyMiniMonk 04/04/2008

I'm in the same situation as you are. The local ASA meetings aren't what I need, and I have had trouble finding anyone who undertands and that I can talk with about my son and what I'm dealing with day-to-day.
Wishing you all the best in finding a local group for support, or even in starting one of your own :-)

Olismom 04/05/2008

my experience is if you want help, then offer help and participate. I find lots of help here! If people are not supporting you there is probably a reason for it!

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