Understanding my Autism
What is it?
The ‘Understanding my autism’ group is a 6 session group for young people at high school who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through the NHS Fife Autism Assessment Pathway. The group outlines current diagnostic criteria and the differences in processing that young people with Autism may want to explore.
Please note, the group is only running in an online format at present.
Weekly topics include understanding Autism and anxiety, sensory differences, managing change and autistic burnout.
You can sign up to the group by clicking the ‘BOOK NOW’ button. Following this you will be sent instructions on the timings of the next group and how to access the group.
What does the course involve?
The group facilitators will present information about a different topic related to as aspect of Autism Spectrum Disorder each week alongside a Powerpoint presentation, with opportunities for reflection and questions. You can participate as much or as little as you like. If you would prefer not to speak during the group, that is ok. It is fine for you to just be there and listen.
Practicing at Home
To get the most out of the group, each week we would ask you to try out some of the strategies we have covered in the session. This allows you an opportunity to see what works for you, and a chance to ask questions during the next session if needed.
Course Content
Understanding my Autism: The Diagnostic criteria
This session introduces the concepts of neurodiversity and considers the diagnostic criteria for Autism. We discuss assessment and the importance of understanding ourselves.
Autism and Anxiety
In this session we focus on why lots of autistic young people can struggle with anxiety and think about ways to manage it.
Managing change and executive functioning
Following on from the session about Anxiety, we think about why transitions/changes can be difficult and think about where we can access support. We also consider executive functioning tasks (organising ourselves/planning).
Sensory Issues
In this session we focus on understanding sensory sensitivities. We look at strategies for supporting sensory needs and ways we can adapt the environment.
Mood difficulties, Shutdown and Autistic Burnout
In this session we focus on thinking about how our mood can affect our experiences and impact our actions, and consider Autistic Burnout.
Relationships and Review
In this session we focus on how a diagnosis may impact relationships in our lives and review the group together, allowing extra time for group discussion.
