Clear and engaging, this book offers a refreshing positive psychology approach to mental health and autism. Moving away from neurotypical views of happiness, it sets out simple techniques to help adults on the spectrum improve their mental health. Packed with helpful exercises for individuals and groups, it covers topics such as recognising character strengths, dealing with negative self-talk, building communication skills and self-awareness, and forming coping strategies for the workplace. Autistic individuals and professionals who work with them will find flexible and practical solutions to recurring negative thoughts, helping clear the path to a successful and happy future. A must-read for anyone on the spectrum or those who support them.

Full of simple strategies for happiness in children and teens with autism, this book is a must read for anyone dedicated to the wellbeing of a child on the spectrum. Bringing a refreshingly positive approach to mental health and autism, the guide is full of practical ideas for helping children strengthen their self-worth, optimism and receptivity to happiness. It also reveals how children can build resilience and better understand their feelings, giving them the skills to flourish and thrive and to ward off negative thoughts. The activities are ideal for all learning levels and can be done individually or in groups, at home or in the classroom. Talking about mental health in autism is all too often reduced to ways of 'curing illness' - this book helps to prevent poor mental health by making happiness a priority and an attainable goal.

*********Living with Adult Autism: A Guide for Autistic Adults and Their Families************ Living with Adult Autism: A Guide for Autistic Adults and Their Families is an empowering and comprehensive self-help guide that serves as an invaluable resource for adults navigating life on the autism spectrum and the people who support them. This book is specially designed to help those managing autism in adulthood. It's a practical handbook that addresses the unique challenges adult autism presents, but more importantly, it also celebrates the exceptional qualities autistic adults possess. At the heart of Living with Adult Autism is the belief that understanding adult autism is the key to not only coping with it but also appreciating the richness and potential it brings to life. This guide provides a thorough overview of the autism spectrum, diving deep into the intricacies and traits of adult autism, unmasking myths, and presenting real-life examples to foster better understanding. Designed as a practical handbook for adult autism, this book equips readers with life skills and strategies for managing daily life. From choosing the right career path and handling workplace interactions, to navigating mental health concerns and understanding the role of various health professionals, this guide empowers individuals with autism to take control of their lives. The chapters on understanding social cues and conventions, along with building and maintaining relationships, are filled with practical strategies. These offer a fresh perspective on social situations and interactions, helping individuals with autism build strong, fulfilling relationships. One unique aspect of Living with Adult Autism is its focus on the importance of self-care. It offers practical strategies that autistic adults can integrate into their daily routines to maintain their overall well-being. From mental health to physical health, this guide provides a holistic approach to self-care and personal development. A separate section in this guide is dedicated to families supporting autistic adults. It provides crucial insights into the experiences of autistic adults, equipping family members with tools to offer understanding and compassionate support. This family guide to adult autism presents practical tips on effective communication, creating a supportive environment, and long-term care. The book also delves into the emotional realm, offering an overview of common emotional challenges and teaching techniques for managing emotions. Each section is illustrated with real-life examples, making the learning process engaging and relatable. This guide for autistic adults is more than just a book - it's a lifeline for those seeking to understand and navigate adult autism, and for families who want to support their loved ones effectively. Living with Adult Autism: A Guide for Autistic Adults and Their Families is the comprehensive and practical guide you need. If you're looking for an autism in adults and family support book that offers real solutions, practical advice, and compassionate understanding, then this book is for you. Embark on a journey of understanding, acceptance, and growth with Living with Adult Autism: A Guide for Autistic Adults and Their Families. Together, let's celebrate the unique and enriching experiences that adult autism brings to our lives.

This book will help social workers and practitioners to find achievable solutions to support autistic people - including those with complex needs - to live fulfilling lives in their communities. Far too many autistic people are currently in inappropriate institutional placements, putting their basic human rights at risk and experiencing a poor quality of life. Good quality support for autistic people is achievable, even in a social care system under pressure. This book will help practitioners to develop high quality community support to facilitate discharges and prevent admissions, by providing them with effective, practical strategies to communicate with and more effectively support autistic people right across the spectrum. Common assumptions and beliefs are challenged, including the idea that 'behaviours' are an inevitable part of autism, and practical approaches are offered to promote autonomy, respect for human rights and empathy with autistic perspectives as a basis for preventing distressed behaviour. This will enable practitioners to support and empower all autistic people to achieve a good quality of life in their communities.

Estimates suggest that up to 20% of employees, customers and clients might have a neurodivergent condition - such as dyslexia, autism, Asperger's, ADHD or dyspraxia - yet these individuals often struggle to gain and maintain employment, despite being very capable. This practical, authoritative business guide will help managers and employers support neurodiverse staff, and gives advice on how to ensure workplaces are neuro-friendly. The book demonstrates that neurodiversity is a natural aspect of human variation to be expected and accepted, rather than a deficit to be accommodated. Employer responsibilities are highlighted, including the 2010 Equality Act, and a range of strategies and policies are provided, including recruitment advice and the benefits of neurodiverse employees, along with advice on physical environments, interaction and communication, and working with clients and customers. This book is an ideal resource for all employers wanting to support and empower people with specific needs to help create a more inclusive workplace, benefiting both neurodiverse individuals and the companies employing them.

"Living with Adult Autism: A Guide for Autistic Adults and Their Families" is intended to provide a comprehensive resource to navigate the complexities of adult autism. The book aims to demystify autism spectrum disorder (ASD), debunk common misconceptions, and offer practical guidance for living and thriving with ASD. Our purpose is two-fold. Firstly, we aim to empower autistic adults with strategies to manage daily life, build successful relationships, establish fulfilling careers, and maintain physical and mental wellbeing. Secondly, we strive to provide families, friends, and caregivers with insights and tools to support their autistic loved ones effectively. This guide emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, self-advocacy, and the pursuit of individual strengths and passions. It stands as an affirmation that living with autism is not about 'overcoming' or 'fixing' oneself but about understanding and embracing one's unique neurology. By fostering greater understanding and acceptance of adult autism, we hope to contribute to a world where neurodiversity is valued and respected.

Almost 80% of autistic people have a co-occurring mental health condition, and this powerful book puts their voices front and centre, showcasing the human experience beyond the medicalised language and diagnoses. This poignant essay collection shines a light on voices that often go unheard in our society. Covering a range of experiences from multiple ages, genders and backgrounds, discussions include trauma, relationships, masking, healthcare, intersectionality and more. The essays are structured along the topics of hurt (personal experiences and how they shaped the contributor), help (the tools and tips which have helped on their personal journeys), and hope (looking forward to the future). At times touching, humorous, and also enraging, this book offers a frank and honest depiction of the challenges autistic people face and the knock-on effect on their mental health. A challenge to change how our society treats and values one another.