Every autistic person presents differently across a range of different traits, and therefore have their own strengths and challenges (National Autistic Society, 2023). Not all autistic people will experience things in the same way. These categories are just to demonstrate and not to generalise to everyone.

While it is important to get support for our difficulties, it is just as important to reflect upon our strengths, talents and how autism might be positively impacting our day-to-day life. We tend to see strengths as things we are good at, and difficulties as things we are bad at.​ But we may have strengths that are disguised as difficulties. For instance, if you have been told you are serious, bold, or bossy, they could be seen as strengths as they may make you a great leader.

Getting a diagnosis

Getting an autism diagnosis can be a moment of huge significance. It might feel like you are finally getting answers to questions about yourself, or why you might feel different from others (Ambitious About Autism, 2022).

Making sense of a diagnosis can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, everyone will experience their own range of emotions and thoughts – all of which are valid!

The battery analogy

Everyone has a given amount of energy and there are things in day-to-day life that give us more energy, and some that use up that energy, just like the battery on a phone, or laptop.​ Things that recharge one person’s battery may not be the same for another person (Tabone, 2018).​ Understanding what drains and what gives energy is important for balancing mental and physical health and helps to avoid burnout. Things that give you energy may be engaging in your interests, sticking to your routine or spending time outside.

Here are a few definitions of things that may drain your battery (Castellon, 2021):

• Camouflaging – umbrella term for strategies a person uses to blend into social surroundings and situations.
• Masking– strategies used to hide autistic traits.​
• ​Imitation – strategies used to compensate for difficulties experienced in social situations through copying other people.

Building your tribe

Some autistic people may find it challenging to interact with others. There are many reasons for this. One example is that there may be unpredictable sensory challenges (such as loud noises) in social gatherings.

It may be helpful to think about the type of people you prefer to spend time around. Do they have:

• Similar interests?
• Similar age?
• Also autistic?

Meaningful social connections can give you new skills and experiences, as well as being a great way to explore your interests further.