Autistic Friends Orion  @orionkelly  and Donna  @IShouldSayThatOutLoud  discuss several pages and topics from Orion's book "Autism Feels...An Earthling's Guide." There's so much more to share in a conversation between friends than can be fit into a book, including shared experiences between friends.

Orion discusses the importance of including autistic voices in parenting and the workforce. He emphasizes the need for professionals to have a better understanding of autism and the lived experiences of autistic individuals. Orion also highlights the challenges of self-care for autistic people who are deeply invested in their special interests. He compares and contrasts the concept of hobbies vs. special interests for the autistic community and explains how special interests are a form of therapy and regulation for autistic individuals.

Including autistic voices in parenting and the workforce can lead to better outcomes for autistic individuals. Professionals in fields such as criminal justice, mental health, and employment should have a better understanding of autism and the unique needs of autistic individuals. Special interests are an important form of therapy and regulation for autistic individuals. Autistic individuals may struggle with self-care when deeply invested in their special interests. The concept of casual hobbies can be difficult for autistic individuals to understand, as our special interests often consume our lives.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Friendship
00:20 Creating Better Outcomes Through Autistic Voices
00:55 Creating Better Outcomes through Autistic Voices
00:56 Mental Health and Suicide in the Autistic Community
03:00 Criminal Justice System Interactions for the Autistic Community
05:38 Misunderstanding Can Lead to Health Misdiagnosis in the Autistic Community
07:07 Intertwine Lived Experience Workforce & Parenting Supports
10:24 Greetings in an Autistic World
10:42 Understanding and Accommodating Autistic Individuals in Various Settings
13:20 Social Awkwardness & Unique Perspectives for Autistic Individuals
14:32 Special Interests vs. Hobbies for the Autistic Community