AuDHD and Me Coaching

Language matters 💚

Labels like "high functioning," "low functioning," "person with Autism," or even "special needs" are often used without considering how the individual being described feels about them 🙌🏻

For example, terms like "high functioning" can erase the support needs someone has, while "low functioning" can reduce a person to their challenges and limit others' expectations of them 💭

These labels often tell us more about how comfortable other people are, than about the actual lived experience of the Autistic person ✨️

Every Autistic person is different. Some prefer identity-first language ("Autistic person"), others prefer person-first language ("person with Autism"), and some may use different terms entirely. There is no universally correct label because every individual has their own relationship with their identity, disability, and Neurodivergence 💚

The simplest and most respectful approach is to ask 💬

Instead of assuming, give people the autonomy to express themselves 🙌🏻

Respect isn't about finding the perfect term. It's about listening to the person in front of you and using the language they choose for themselves 💚

Communication Differences Need Greater Understanding 💚✨️

It is okay to advocate for how you communicate and you don't deserve to be put into a box 📦

If you're neurotypical and you are guilty of this, please reflect on how you communicate with others, particularly Neurodivergent people going forward 🙌🏻

We are not rude, too passionate, too curious or not listening. We are communicating in a way that works for us 💚