Plans to improve our quality of life are not necessarily a terrible idea, so what if we were to reframe these resolutions to reflect neuro-affirming goals – and what would they look like?
Neuro-affirming resolutions prioritse our unique Autistic way of being, incorporating our passions while prioritising health, safety, and happiness. These goals encourage us to thrive authentically rather than strive to fit into societal expectations that don’t align with our needs.
In this table, we reimagine common resolutions to make them more relevant and affirming for Autistic individuals. These suggestions are just a starting point to inspire your own personalised goals.
To support your journey, here are some practical ideas from our team to ensure 2025 brings with it an environment that plays to our strengths and puts in place the peer connections and professional support systems we need to replenish our spoons.
Delving into your SPINs (special interests) is a fantastic way to boost mood and energy levels. One way to do this is to search through Class Bento, a platform offering a wide range of in-person and virtual art, craft, and culinary classes. For those with NDIS funding, many of these can be covered under social and community participation. See how to do this here.
If you’re not NDIS-funded, check out My Community Directory for free community interest groups across Australia.
Research shows that having other Autistic peers to support Autistic individuals is crucial to our community’s mental health. Engaging with others who truly “get it” can provide emotional support, validation, and encouragement, while also offering opportunities to exchange coping strategies and celebrate shared interests. One way to do this is to explore Neurokindred’s online Autistic-led peer support groups that provide opportunities to connect with other like-minded Autists in a safe space. View Neurokindred’s diverse list of online social groups here.
With over 13,000 registrants so far, our free, online, self-paced Autism Essentials course provides a neuro-affirming understanding of Autism. Introducing your friends and family to Autism Essentials equips loved ones with the knowledge and empathy to build a supportive, empowering relationship with you that celebrates neurodiversity and fosters mutual respect. For an Autistic individual, feeling truly understood can be very protective for our mental health. It nurtures a sense of belonging, validates our experiences, and affirms our way of interacting with the world. When those around us understand our needs, it creates an environment where we can thrive, free from the burden of masking or constantly explaining ourselves. Explore Autism Essentials here.
Common Autistic strengths such as passion, original thinking, social justice advocacy, and attention to detail, can make Autistic people invaluable contributors to community groups. These environments often suit our neurology, because they:
Find volunteering opportunities at Go Volunteer.
Accessing mental health support that aligns with your neurodivergent needs can make a world of difference. When selecting a provider, consider their understanding of neurodiversity and their ability to create a safe, respectful space that prioritizes your autonomy and identity.
Reframing Autism offers an excellent guide on how to choose a neuro-affirming mental health professional. It highlights key factors like seeking providers who:
For more detailed guidance, visit the full article here.
The Reframing Autism team would like to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we have the privilege to learn, work, and grow. Whilst we gather on many different parts of this Country, the RA team walk on the land of the Amangu, Awabakal, Bindjareb, Birpai, Whadjak, Wiradjuri and Yugambeh peoples.
We are committed to honouring the rich culture of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this Country, and the diversity and learning opportunities with which they provide us. We extend our gratitude and respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and to all Elders past and present, for their wisdom, their resilience, and for helping this Country to heal.
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