Answering Your Questions

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Hi!

As I said at the end of last weeks post, this week I will be answering your questions. Many of you made your way to the about section of this blog, and emailed me your questions. I do answer all emails personally, and I would love to hear your thoughts at any time. But for now, lets get into the post!

How common is autism?

Autism is one of four major mental disabilities. It is predicted that it affects 1 in 68 American children, and mostly boys rather than girls.

(If you want more information on how common autism is, see this post: There Are Millions of Them…)

What does "on the spectrum" mean?

Every person with autism spectrum disorder falls somewhere on a supposed "spectrum". This can be broken down in many ways, however it can be separated into basic high functioning autism and low functioning autism. Both of these positions on the spectrum come with their own challenges, and there are particular traits associated with each end of the spectrum. My brother falls on the high functioning end of the spectrum, and some of his personal traits include managing and comprehending emotions, anger control and socialisation.

(If you want more information on what autism is, see this post: "What is Autism?" Five Easy Explanations)

How is it for siblings?

It definitely isn't easy, but it's just life. I have never known him to be any other way. I have certainly grown up very fast, and have a close relationship with my other brother who is not autistic. Nethertheless, I love him very much.

(If you want more information on this, see this post: The Hardest Part)

How is it for parents?

I am not ignorant, but I just don’t know. You will have to ask my parents. (Does anyone want a guest post from my parents?)

How can I support siblings and parents?

I actually have a whole post about this which I think you would love! It is called "Offering Assistance"

Does your brother go to school?

Yes, my brother does go to school. I will of course not say which school for privacy reasons, however it is a mainstream school. He attends as often as he can cope, and has an absolutely amazing support system at his school. I can't recommend it for everyone, but I know at least for my brother, attending a special school would just not suit him.

If you could change your brother, would you?

Absolutely no way. Whilst I struggle, he can make me sad, frustrated, upset, I love him. I do.

Love,

E.

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