Celebrating Autistic Joy
During Autism Acceptance Month, author Taylor Viehman highlights "autistic joy"—a powerful, full‑body excitement often tied to special interests. The piece describes how this intense emotion can be stifled by social pressure, leading to masking and mental‑health strain. By sharing personal anecdotes, the article shows how supportive partners and inclusive environments can validate and amplify autistic joy. It calls for broader recognition of joy as a protective factor for autistic individuals.
Why You Can’t “Just Stop” BFRBs (And What Actually Helps)
Body‑focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) such as skin picking and hair pulling are often misunderstood as simple habits that can be stopped by willpower. Dr. Laura Chackes explains that these actions serve regulatory functions, and attempts to suppress them without addressing...
Your Needs Matter: Advocating for Yourself
The article emphasizes self‑advocacy through the use of “I” statements to set clear, respectful boundaries at work and in personal relationships. It explains how framing concerns from a personal perspective reduces defensiveness and encourages constructive dialogue. Readers are guided to...
Introduction to Mindfulness: A Practical Path to Calm, Clarity, and Connection
Elizabeth Ernest introduces a four‑week Introduction to Mindfulness course launching March 23. The program offers guided instruction, body‑scan and breathing exercises, and strategies for handling emotions. It targets newcomers, caregivers, and mental‑health professionals seeking practical, daily‑life tools. The course promises a...