Hidden Disabilities
Challenging institutional unfairness and encouraging the faith.
by
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Fidgeting, routine & in some cases, ritualistic, 'stimming' behaviour are often common factors as they are coping mechanisms when they find themselves in awkward & uncomfortable situations.
Very sadly, a lot of people in society perceive this display of behaviour as them merely being 'difficult' & 'disrespectful' though this is certainly far from the case. They - We - DO want to make a good impression & to fit in but tasks that so many people take for granted such as regular eye
contact, keeping attentive & trying to cease fidgeting/stimming are extremely difficult for many of us. The view from mainstream society is that Autistic people should simply make more of an effort.
This 'make more of an effort' mindset, while to some may be said with the best of intentions is deeply damaging to both us and our families.
Statistics have shown that rates of anxiety, depression, self harm & very sadly, suicides, are far higher among Autistic people than among the general population. Along with mental health struggles, unemployment, poverty & poor health rates are also typically higher. Average life expectancy rates are usually lower.
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About the Book
Explaining from his own experiences, how bitterly frustrating and unfair life can be for people on the Autism spectrum & how all Christians & Churches can best accomodate & enrich the lives of people with hidden disabilities to reach their full, spiritual potential. Around one quarter of the book talks about the first 35 years of Mr Treacy’s life & how he has been continually held back by such circumstances.
About the Author
From Wiltshire in southern England. He has faced many setbacks through his life through no fault of his own & often due to ignorant attitudes. Even his own Christian journey has been hampered throughout and he is eager for others on the Spectrum to not have to go through the same.