Over the years and with the help of my blog, I am able to piece my disabilities together. Also, with the help of medical notes and further research I am finally able to bring my physical, mental and emotional disabilities together, so that I can move forward with certainty.
Growing up without knowing about either disability, I don't have normal functioning. I am sorry if this sounds like or feels like a repeat. I need to be sure; to place both of my disabilities.
Cerebral Palsy
I have Cerebral palsy and autism. They are two separate conditions that co-occur. Cerebral Palsy affects muscle co-ordination and my muscle tone is mostly affected. I have difficulty in regulating emotions and feelings due to the impact it has on the brain and nervous system. I also have trouble expressing myself, understanding social cues and managing emotions in a typical way. I deal with anxiety, low-line depression, and those can lead to frustrations and challenges. Like all disabilities, there needs to be an acceptance from others on what we deal with.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disorder characterised by challenges with social interaction, communication and repetitive behaviours. I have intellectual disabilities, while others with autism may have average or above-average intelligence. I have strengths in areas such as attention to detail and memory. I take things literal, find it hard to understand humour and sarcasm. Most often I need to be in the same routine and can get anxious if that were to change. I can get anxious in social situations, or going into new situations without researching what they may look or feel like. I deal with sensory issues.
Living with both disorders
Living with cerebral palsy and autism means I have unique challenges and needs relating to both. I mostly struggle with mental functioning. In Brexit and Covid-19, around their handling, autism became my biggest challenge, when anxiety and depression began to see the light of day. Before that, both were easier to contain.
