Know that you’re not alone

Whether you’re a teenager coming to terms with an autism diagnosis or an adult long aware of your autistic traits, remember there’s a whole community of autistic people out there. Connecting with others (through local groups or online communities) who share similar experiences can help you feel understood and valued. Autistic adults often say that finding neurodivergent friends or mentors was life-changing.

Understand your own strengths and needs

Living as an autistic person in a world that isn’t always built with you in mind can be exhausting — but knowing yourself changes everything. When you begin to understand your own strengths and challenges, you can start making choices that support your well-being rather than draining it.

Maybe you're a child who finds joy in building things or drawing for hours, but struggles with loud sounds or unpredictable routines. Maybe you're an adult who thrives on detail-oriented work but dreads large social events. That awareness — even just noticing what fills you up and what drains you — gives you more control over your environment and decisions.

Some people find it helpful to journal or use an app to track what makes them feel calm or overwhelmed. Over time, patterns emerge — and with them, clues for how to build a life that supports you.

Advocating for Yourself (in Whatever Way Works for You)

Self-advocacy doesn’t have to be formal or complicated. Sometimes it’s just finding a way to say, “I need a break,” or “This doesn’t work for me.” That might be with words, or it might be using a cue card, a visual, or an app. What matters is that you get your needs across in a way that feels safe and comfortable.

Even young children can be taught this skill. A simple visual, like a “quiet please” card, can empower them to express something they otherwise might not be able to say out loud. As kids grow into teens or adults, self-advocacy becomes a tool for navigating more complex spaces — school, work, friendships. You might find yourself explaining to a friend, “I’d rather hang out somewhere quiet,” or letting a coworker know that too much background noise makes it hard to focus.

The more often you speak up for your needs — in whatever form — the easier it becomes. It builds confidence. It also reminds you (and those around you) that your comfort, preferences, and boundaries are valid. You deserve to be understood.

Take Your Time — Learning About Autism Is Personal

Understanding yourself better can be empowering. There are kid-friendly books and videos that explain autism in a positive light, which parents can share with younger children. Teens and adults might read autistic-authored blogs or books to get insight from those with lived experience.

Remember that your autism may not look exactly like someone else’s – and that’s okay. Take pride in what makes you uniquely you. If certain aspects of autism are hard (like anxiety or sensory overload), know that there are strategies and supports (many covered in this guide) to help manage those challenges.

Celebrate your successes

Autism is a lifelong journey, and you’ll keep growing at your own pace. Maybe you made it through a day at school without a meltdown, or you learned a new skill, or you simply found a new favorite interest that brings you joy. Take time to acknowledge these wins.

Some autistic adults say they felt “behind” their peers in certain areas, but later realized life isn’t a race – every step forward, no matter how small, is progress. If you like visuals, you could keep a sticker chart or digital tracker for personal goals (like trying one new food, or practicing a coping skill). Seeing those stickers add up can be really motivating!