Embracing Autism: A Glimpse into Our Daily Struggles and the Power of Resilience
In the previous posts of our Embracing Autism series, I have shared various aspects of our journey, including creating a structured environment and building a supportive network. Today, I’d like to share some of the daily struggles Saar and I face naturally and honestly. By giving you a glimpse into our lives, you will better understand the challenges we face and recognize the resilience and strength that helps us persevere.
The Morning Rush: Mornings can be incredibly hectic in our household. Saar often has difficulty waking up and transitioning from sleep to starting his day. Despite having a consistent routine, he sometimes struggles with sudden environmental changes. I must remain patient and supportive while helping him ease into the day.
Sensory Overload at the Supermarket: Grocery shopping has always been challenging for Saar. The bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells can easily trigger sensory overload, making it difficult for him to cope. I’ve learned to plan our trips during quieter hours and always have a sensory toolkit to help Saar self-regulate when he becomes overwhelmed.
Social Struggles and Misunderstandings: Saar sometimes faces difficulties in social situations, leading to misunderstandings or feelings of isolation. It breaks my heart to see him struggle. Still, I’ve learned to advocate for him, educate others about autism, and help him develop the necessary social skills to navigate these situations.
A Meltdown in the Park: One afternoon at the park, Saar experienced a meltdown due to unexpected changes in our schedule. The stares and judgment from others were disheartening. Still, I reminded myself that their lack of understanding didn’t define our worth. Instead, I focused on providing comfort and support to Saar, helping him regain a sense of calm and control.
The Sleepless Nights: Sleep issues are common in children with autism, and Saar is no exception. We often have sleepless nights where he struggles to fall asleep or wakes up frequently. These nights can be exhausting for both of us, but I’ve learned to find strategies that help Saar relax and establish a better sleep routine.
While our journey with autism has its fair share of struggles, it is filled with moments of growth, love, and resilience. Sharing these raw and honest experiences helps me embrace the beauty in our story and reminds me that we are not alone. You can find empathy, understanding, and perhaps even a sense of connection by offering this glimpse into our daily lives.
In my next blog post, I will discuss the importance of self-care for parents of children with autism and the strategies I’ve found helpful in maintaining my well-being. So stay tuned as we continue to share our journey with Saar and embrace the challenges and triumphs that life brings us.
