Embracing Autistic identity can transform an individual's mental health. Growing up feeling misunderstood or pressured to ""fit in"" with neurotypical norms can lead to anxiety & depression. When met with understanding & support they can thrive, feeling valued for who they are.

OCD shares some traits with autism, but it also shares something else: the internalising of symptoms. Like autism, internalised OCD can change how it appears on the outside, making it more likely to be missed or misinterpreted. @OCDUK  OCD Action  #OCDweek #OCDawareness

🚨 PhD research at QMU on Menstruation in Autistic People with Learning Disability. Looking for parents & professionals to take part! 💬 Please get in touch. Your help can make a big impact! #Research #Autism #LearningDisability

All set up for two days of professional learning sessions for staff working in and with schools in Orkney ⁦Orkney Islands Council⁩ ⁦Neuro-affirming Scotland⁩ ⁦ScotGov Education⁩ ⁦Scot Gov Health⁩

I was talking to a grandmother last week about schooling. ‘I can see the difference’ she said. ‘When my children were young, primary school was relaxed. If the weather was good, they went outside and ran around. If they were sick, they stayed at home. Now with my grandchildren

What a day! Thank you to our friends and Education and Health colleagues in Orkney for such a positive response to Key Messages and taking steps towards being a neuro-affirming community 😊