By Dr. Heather Hurd

​After working for years with adults with Autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD), I am convinced that it can be very helpful to share the ASD diagnosis with employers. I have heard concerns about discrimination and being judged for having ASD, but in my experience the benefits of sharing the disorder have far outweighed the disadvantages. 

​​Sharing the disorder can foster a more positive and effective work environment. One example of this is an individual was having a hard time working with some coworkers for years. It is likely that there was miscommunication occurring with nonsocial cues. After I wrote a letter to be shared with this individual’s supervisor and coworkers communication at work improved. There was an increased understanding, acceptance, and support that was not there previously. In fact, the coworker that had ​started off with the most rocky relationship actually brought in something special to celebrate Autism Awareness Day. 

By Dr. Heather Hurd
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Kids with Autism and Social Skills Deficits are especially at risk for being bullied. Bam. They have trouble enough with things already, but being bullied on top of it all? Darn it, but yes.

 A common misperception about children, teens, and adults with Autism is that they do not pick up on social cues, so they do not understand or feel bullying. It is just the opposite, actually. An adult with Autism reported to me a few years back that he had been at a party in which the other men were laughing at his expense. He did not realize it at the time. But when it dawned on him later it was devastating. Even as adults words can sting us.