Episode 2: Living on the Autism Spectrum

Hailey Slade is a yoga-loving, hippy tattoo artist with Aspergers. With poignancy and humour she shares what it’s like to be on the autism spectrum.
Living with autism is challenging; especially in a world that is made for people who think and process differently. It can be incredibly beautiful, but too often, people on the autism spectrum spend years trying to work out why they experience the world as they do.

“I’ve never really wanted anyone to think of me as moody or grumpy or not friendly or approachable. I realized since having my diagnosis, that I finally care a lot less about what other people think, because I know I can’t do so much.”
– Hailey Slade
Listen in to go on a journey of understanding as Hailey explains what it’s like, why it’s so challenging and what the rest of us can do to help.
In this Episode:
- What is neurodiversity?
- Understanding the physical and emotional issues of autism
- Autistic coping strategies
- Myth-busting the misconceptions about autism
- How neurotypical people can help
Follow Hailey’s work
More information about Autism:
Adulting with Autism – Instagram account
The Autistic Life – Instagram account
Aspergirls: Empowering Females with Asperger Syndrome – Book by Rudy Simone
Asperges in Girls – Lecture by Prof. Tony Attwood
Resources for help:
UK
National Autistic Society – Support, guidance and advice
Online Safety for people with ASD – A great guide to stay safe online
Ambitious About Autism – For autistic children, young people, their parents and carers
Carers UK – Support for carers
Samaritans – FREE Help – Tel: 116 123, E: jo@samaritans.org
The British Psychology Society – Find a Psychologist
Australia
Autism Awareness Australia – Support for Autism families
Autism Spectrum Australia – National service provider for people on the autism spectrum
Beyond Blue – Mental health support
Headspace – National Youth Mental Health Foundation with support services
The Black Dog Institute – Medical health resources, services and research
SANE Australia – Counselling support, Tel: 1800 187 263 (10am – 10pm)
USA
Autism Society – Information and support
Autism Society of America – Advocacy
National Institute of Mental Health – A range of helplines
American Psychologist Association – Psychologist Finder
OR contact medical services in your country.
Episode information
Music by Grant McLachlan
Follow Cath at Drawn to a Story
- Website
- Share the podcast
- Subscribe to the mailing list