Far from being a disability, autism can in fact be a 'superpower' according to several high-profile autistic people. Climate activist Greta Thunberg and food writer Jack Monroe have both used the term in connection with their autism and other voices are rising in unison to claim that autism is a difference, NOT a disability.
Greta Thunberg, 16-year-old Swedish climate activist, has attracted plenty of media attention in recent months, sailing on an eco-friendly boat to the UN Climate Summit to raise awareness about environmental issues. Commentators claimed the fact that Greta has Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) made her a 'naive puppet' while others hurtfully referred to her as a 'weirdo with a monotone voice'. Greta calmly responded to these negative critics, writing: “I have Asperger’s and that means I’m sometimes a bit different from the norm. And – given the right circumstances – being different is a superpower. #aspiepower.
Jack Monroe, British food writer and ASD activist agrees: she wrote that harnessing her own autistic traits has enabled her to see them as 'a kind of superpower'. Another celebrity who has found their autism an inspiration is household name Chris Packham, who as well as being a successful naturalist and TV presenter is also the ambassador for the National Autistic Society. He recently explained that the strength of his sensory responses enables him to 'see things in nature which others cannot' and to 'engage with the natural world with greater clarity and ease'.
At Jobskin, we are all about empowerment and the evidence clearly shows that autism doesn't by any means have to be a disability. That's why we believe in reducing negative symptoms wherever possible, in order to allow the positive elements to shine through. On the Jobskin website, we provide access to a comprehensive, highly-effective range of Sensory Dynamic Orthosis (SDO) garments, designed to make life better, fuller and more positive for people with autism.
Find out more about SDO on our website and please get in touch with our experienced team for further advice and support.