Some people’s brains work a little differently. So what?
For World Autism Acceptance Month, we’re launching Autistic. So what? A new campaign to promote understanding.
Many autistic people say the hardest part of being autistic is navigating a world that isn’t built for them.
Too often, actions that are simply part of autistic people's experiences are treated as a problem. Avoiding eye contact. Needing quiet. Wearing headphones. Pacing. Stimming. Becoming overwhelmed. These are often misread as rudeness, awkwardness or lack of ability, when all they do is reflect someone's experiences.
Thousands of autistic people adapt to live their lives every day. Isn't it time we adapted to theirs?
I think the biggest problem with being autistic isn’t the autism itself, but the mental health challenges that come from being autistic in a world that doesn’t understand us and very often mistreats us.
Juan - a late-diagnosed autistic adult
With greater understanding comes acceptance. That's why we're asking non-autistic people to learn more about autism this April (and beyond). By knowing more, you'll help more autistic people feel freer to be themselves.
A huge thank you to Do Not Behave and the Behavioural Architects for bringing this campaign to life. And to Not Just Any for your brilliant pro-bono film.
This campaign supports our 2030 Goal to change attitudes towards autistic people.