When the UK Government called time on its relationship with the EU as a high-functioning autistic individual, I began to feel uneasy about it. Although I didn't quite understand why, I was aware it wasn't a good thing.

Autism Challenges: Brexit and Covid-19

Fast forward to Covid-19 and things got a whole lot worse. Brexit and Covid-19 are two major events, including gaslighting, that we have all been affected by. The cost of living crisis is here to stay. It is important that people like me with high functioning autism are able to place our anxiety and worries in such a way that our anxiety and worries become reduced.

Common difficulties for people with High-functioning Autism

Some common difficulties experienced by individuals with high-functioning autism include sensory overload, difficulty understanding social cues and difficulty controlling emotions. These challenges can impact their ability to cope with various situations, including major events like Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Loss of my Twin

In Covid-19 I lost my twin. Uncertainty and change for me have now become the norm. Through high-functioning autism, I deal with anxiety, depression and obsessive compulsive disorder, made worse because of the uncertainties of Brexit and Covid-19 and the loss of my twin.

Brexit and Covid-19 are on-going

Brexit hasn't really started and it's on-going. Covid-19 isn't finished although it is reduced. It is important policymakers, healthcare professionals and communities continue to prioritise the needs of individuals with mental health issues, including high-functioning autism.

By promoting understanding, acceptance and support, individuals like me with high-functioning autism can navigate complex situations better with the right support and with confidence. And while the high functioning autistic community is quiet, individuals with high functioning autism are still out there and they need help.