Language Matters In Autistic Healthcare Experience

"Sounds like you have depression."

"You have autism."

"It's autism symptoms."

"You are angry."

"You have anxiety."

"Autism is a mental health issue."

"Maybe you are just clumsy because of your autism disorder."

That’s strange.

Neglect or Disrespect? Why Not Both!

These are the inappropriate and often dismissive phrases I hear repeatedly from healthcare providers since I sought help for my injury over a year ago. This ongoing experience has been relentlessly frustrating, particularly when I am already struggling with a significant amount of pain and trauma stemming from the accidents I endured. The only thing I truly desire is to get better and to heal, yet instead, I find myself being treated as a burden. I feel neglected and discriminated against by healthcare providers, which is not only disheartening but also retraumatising. The treatments I have received from healthcare providers thus far, which would be more accurately described as neglect, have ranged from a complete lack of acknowledgment, no thorough explanation, or even a proper examination. Alternatively, it is the extreme scale where I was aggressively examined and yanked around as if I were merely a toy, which is very dehumanising and disrespectful. This is certainly not the level of care or empathy I expected from healthcare providers, especially after having already endured an ordeal with the negligence of builders in my home.

On top of this distressing situation, it seems that healthcare providers lack a fundamental understanding of sensitivity in their choice of language. Their apparent ignorance regarding autism is absolutely shocking and deeply troubling. The only way to view the situation objectively is to recognise that they are actively compounding trauma on top of trauma for autistic patients. This is happening simply because they are unwilling to take responsibility for educating themselves about autism and learning how to better treat and support autistic people within the healthcare system. The result is an infliction of severe trauma and revictimisation on those of us who are already suffering from the effects of health issues that are caused by others.

The language used by these healthcare providers not only undermines the complexities of mental health but also trivialises the lived experiences of autistic people. Each phrase, rather than offering understanding or support, serves to alienate and invalidate our struggles. It is essential for healthcare professionals to recognise that their words carry weight and that their approach can either contribute to healing or exacerbate existing trauma. The lack of awareness and training on autism within the healthcare community is a significant oversight that leads to a cascade of negative experiences for patients who are already vulnerable.

Additionally, the dismissive remarks regarding mental health issues such as depression and anxiety do not take into account the complex nature of these conditions, particularly in relation to autism. By oversimplifying these experiences, healthcare providers risk perpetuating a narrative that fails to address the unique challenges faced by autistic people. It is crucial for the healthcare system to develop a more nuanced understanding of these issues, ensuring that autistic patients receive not only appropriate medical care but also the compassion and respect we deserve.

The healthcare system must strive to create an environment that offers understanding and support for all patients. This involves a systemic approach to educate healthcare providers about neurodiversity and encouraging an empathetic approach for each patient and a genuine desire to help. Only then can we hope to alleviate the additional trauma that many of us autistic people face when seeking care for our health issues, ensuring that we feel safe, respected, and supported in our recovery.

Addressing The Appalling Language in Healthcare for Autistic People

I have never had the opportunity to address the persistent unfair treatment from my healthcare providers, which is unsurprising given that they do not offer a safe space or platform for us to voice such disturbing behaviours. The absence of open dialogue and supportive environments in healthcare settings often leaves us patients feeling marginalised and unheard. This systemic issue is particularly concerning for neurodiverse people, as we have our diverse communication methods and unique needs that healthcare providers often label as difficult, using our differences to justify their lack of awareness or, even worse, their reluctance to understand neurodivergence.

Healthcare providers frequently neglect the unique requirements of autistic patients, leading to inadequate care and a dismissive approach to health concerns. The failure to create an inclusive environment not only exacerbates feelings of isolation but also perpetuates a cycle of misunderstanding and mistreatment. When healthcare providers fail to actively seek an understanding of the perspectives of autistic people, it results in a substantial gap in the quality of care and negatively impacts health outcomes.

So, I am using this as my platform to be direct with my response to these healthcare providers who are continuing to fail autistic patients. It is important to address these issues head-on and advocate for necessary changes within the healthcare system. By sharing my experiences and shedding light on the challenges faced by autistic people, I hope to encourage others to speak out as well. It is essential for healthcare providers to recognise the importance of empathy, active listening, and tailored approaches to care that respect the individuality of each patient.

Does It Really Sound Like Depression?

What exactly does depression sound like? In a brief two-minute telephone conversation, what did they discover that seemed so groundbreaking and significant that led them to conclude a depression diagnosis, despite having no prior knowledge of my background or history? My happy self literally radiates among my family and friends; I am the embodiment of joy and optimism, who brings solutions to problems and positivity to dire situations. My authentic identity starkly contrasts with being labeled as depressed by healthcare providers. It is not just dispiriting; it is profoundly disorienting.

Hearing healthcare providers diagnose me with depression and offer antidepressants so quickly and without substantial information is jarring and leads to disillusionment with the care system. It raises questions about the validity of their assessments and the criteria used to label someone as such. The experience seems detached, resembling a routine exercise in labelling before moving to the next patient, as if my complex emotional landscape has been reduced to a mere checklist of symptoms. This reductionist approach has resulted in a loss of faith in a system that is supposed to provide understanding and support.

You “Have” Autism

I think using the term you "have" autism is one of the worst language choices, as it reduces our identity to a disease or something that can be cured. We don't "have" autism; instead, we experience and interact with our daily lives differently than what society deems "normal." Our cognitive processes, sensory perceptions, and communication styles simply differ from the "norm." This neurodivergent identity should not be stigmatised or viewed negatively or as separate from us; rather, it should be celebrated as a vital part of human diversity.

It Is Not Symptoms. It Is Ignorance.

It is not autism symptoms; it is actually your ignorance that is polluting the world. Stop reducing us to a list of challenges or limitations, and instead, try to limit the display of your ignorance, especially among those who fail to see that an approach focused solely on deficits does little to support or empower neurodiverse individuals. A deficit-focused approach only alienates us, making us feel inherently flawed or less capable. It is crucial to move beyond the simplistic view of autism as just a collection of "symptoms." We should strive to cultivate a deeper understanding of autism, as shifting this perspective not only benefits neurodiverse individuals but also enriches a culture of acceptance, support, and appreciation for diversity in all its forms.

Anger? How Low Did You Stoop?

Am I truly angry? Or have medical providers simply become so accustomed to assigning emotions? Especially when the emotion did not originate from my own expressions or words. Throughout my lifetime, only a handful of people have genuinely experienced and witnessed my anger, so it is quite surprising for yet another stranger to presume they can evoke this emotion in just a fleeting two-minute chat. This prompts an important question: why are healthcare providers so eager to label autistic individuals as angry? This tendency to categorise us in this manner seems not only reductive but also dismissive of the complexities of our emotional experiences.

When we consider the broader context, it becomes evident that there may be underlying factors contributing to this labelling. For instance, the societal perception of anger often carries a stigma, implying a loss of control or a threat to the social order. For autistic people, who may communicate and express emotions differently, it is all too easy for observers to misinterpret our responses as anger rather than frustration, feeling misunderstood, or even excitement. This misinterpretation can stem from a lack of understanding or awareness of the diverse ways in which autistic people experience and express emotions.

The healthcare system operates within a framework that prioritises quick assessments and labels for the sake of efficiency. This approach result in oversimplifications that fail to capture the nuanced realities of an individual’s emotional experiences. When healthcare providers hastily label an autistic person as angry, they might be missing complex emotions such as confusion, sensory overload, or a simple desire to be understood. This raises further questions about what society is doing or failing to do that makes accepting the complexity of autistic emotions so difficult. Is society, as a whole, reluctant to engage in deeper conversations that explore the origins of these feelings? Are they too quick to make assumptions without taking the time to listen and understand the unique perspectives of autistic individuals?

This labelling not only misrepresents our emotional experiences but also perpetuates a cycle of misunderstanding and alienation. It is important for healthcare providers and society at large to move beyond these simplistic labels and to encourage an environment where we autistics can express our emotions authentically without fear of being misunderstood or mischaracterised. Only then can we begin to dismantle the harmful stereotypes that continue to overshadow the rich and varied emotional experiences of autistic people.

You Have Anxiety

Is anxiety the most readily available commodity in the medical textbook? It often seems that way, as it appears to be a catch-all diagnosis that many healthcare providers are quick to assign. One might wonder if there is an underlying incentive, such as a commission, for medical practitioners when they diagnose this condition. However, this notion is not only unfounded but also undermines the complex nature of mental health issues. Anxiety is a genuine psychological state that can have profound effects on an individual’s life, and it deserves careful consideration rather than a hasty label.

I have always taken pride in my ability to remain calm and composed, navigating through life's challenges with a steady demeanour. Very few things can truly rattle my sense of tranquility. Yet, despite this, I find myself struggling with an unexpected adversary: the state of my home, particularly the chaos that seems to reign in my kitchen and garden. These spaces, which should be sanctuaries of comfort and creativity, have instead become sources of fear and anxiety for me. The thought of stepping into my kitchen fills me with dread, and the mere idea of venturing into the garden, where numerous accidents have occurred, sends waves of apprehension coursing through me. This emotional response raises an important question: is it not perfectly acceptable to feel such emotions, especially when they are tied to real experiences and environments that evoke distress?

It is important to acknowledge that these feelings of anxiety are valid and reflect a natural reaction to traumatic accidents or stressful situations. The fear I experience is not merely a fleeting moment of discomfort; it is a complex emotional response that deserves more than a cursory conversation. To dismiss it as a simple case of anxiety without a thorough assessment would be to overlook the nuances of my situation. It is essential for healthcare providers to engage in deeper discussions with their patients, exploring the root causes of their anxiety rather than hastily assigning labels based on surface-level observations. A comprehensive evaluation can lead to a better understanding of the individual’s experiences and the development of more effective coping strategies.

While anxiety may be a term that is frequently encountered in medical discussions, it is essential to approach it with the seriousness and depth it warrants. Individuals experiencing anxiety should not feel stigmatised or rushed into a diagnosis without proper evaluation. Instead, they should be encouraged to explore their feelings and experiences in a compassionate setting.

Autism Is NOT a Mental Health Issue.

There is a growing and concerning issue among a significant number of medical providers who are choosing to remain uninformed or completely oblivious to autism, which requires immediate attention. This lack of understanding is particularly disheartening when it manifests in clinical settings, where individuals like myself seek help for specific medical issues. In my recent experiences, I have encountered several healthcare professionals who, rather than addressing my request for a diagnosis related to a physical injury, have shockingly referred to my autistic identity as a mental health issue. This raises a critical question: what does my autism have to do with the physical injury I am trying to address?

The conflation of autism with mental health issues by these providers not only demonstrates a profound misunderstanding of autism but also reflects a troubling trend in the medical community where certain diagnoses are used as scapegoats. Instead of taking accountability for their inadequate physiotherapy treatments, erroneous diagnoses, or a lack of thorough examination of the physical conditions at hand, these medical providers seem to prefer to deflect responsibility. They often resort to labelling autism as an easy target, using it as a convenient excuse for their inability or unwillingness to provide the appropriate care that patients genuinely need.

This behaviour can have devastating effects on us as patients who are already navigating the challenges of the pain or suffering of our physical injury. By dismissing the legitimacy of our concerns and attributing our experiences solely to our autistic identity, these providers not only fail to offer the necessary support but also inflict additional trauma. The impact of this is detrimental, leading to feelings of frustration, helplessness, and a sense of being misunderstood and invalidated.

Additionally, this pattern of misdiagnosis and misunderstanding can create a ripple effect, discouraging autistic people from seeking further medical help due to fear of being dismissed or improperly treated again. It is essential for the medical community to acknowledge the importance of understanding autism in its true context, recognising it as a distinct neurodevelopmental difference that should not be conflated with mental health issues. It is the responsibility of healthcare providers to be informed and offer a compassionate approach; only then can they better serve their patients, ensuring that we receive the comprehensive care we deserve without the added burden of stigma or misunderstanding about our identity.

The need for medical providers to educate themselves about autism is critical, not only for the sake of their professional integrity but also for the wellbeing of their patients. Acknowledging the complexities of autism and treating each patient as an individual with unique needs is essential in delivering effective healthcare. It is time for the medical community to step up, take responsibility for their practices, and commit to understanding autism from the autistic community and not textbooks.

Autism Does Not Equal to Clumsiness

When I sought medical assistance for a physical injury, I was met with an alarming response that many patients often encounter: the tendency of some healthcare providers to hastily dismiss certain symptoms or conditions without fully exploring the issues. This raises an important question: how quickly do doctors want their patients out the door? In my case, the lack of thorough examination and consideration led to a frustrating and bewildering experience. Despite my clear articulation of the injury and its impact on my daily life, the response I received felt dismissive, as if my concerns were being overshadowed by preconceived notions about my coordination or physical capabilities.

It is particularly disheartening to realise that, despite having no history of clumsiness or related behaviour in my life, the doctor I consulted seemed eager to attribute my injury to a vague notion of clumsiness. This not only undermined my experience as a patient but also highlighted a broader issue within the medical community: the tendency to rely on stereotypes rather than engaging in a comprehensive evaluation of each individual’s unique circumstances. This can lead to misdiagnosis, inadequate treatment, and, ultimately, a lack of trust in healthcare systems.

The perception that autism equals clumsiness can have far-reaching implications beyond the walls of a doctor's office. It can affect social interactions, educational opportunities, and even employment prospects for neurodiverse people. It also leads to medical neglect, unnecessary stigmas, and misdiagnoses that further exacerbate the physical conditions of the patients, or worse, inflict pain or trauma on vulnerable people who are simply seeking help. It should be a basic need for medical providers and society to recognize that autism encompasses a wide range of abilities and that each person is unique, with their own strengths and challenges that do not conform to generalized stereotypes.

The notion that autism is synonymous with clumsiness is a harmful oversimplification that does a disservice to both autistic people and the medical community. Healthcare providers need to approach each patient with an open mind, free from biases and preconceived notions, in order to provide the best possible care. By doing more than just the most basic understanding about autism—in other words, doing their job properly—doctors can truly create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone, allowing autistic people to thrive without being unfairly labelled or dismissed.

Is It Strange?

"That's strange." This phrase has become a ubiquitous response among healthcare professionals when they encounter cases that do not align with their preconceived notions or the standard medical textbooks. It is often uttered in moments of confusion or frustration when the physical symptoms presented by a patient do not correspond with the expected clinical picture. However, it is the responsibility of medical providers to consider the implications of such a remark. Do medical professionals ever reflect on whether their comments are genuinely adding value to the conversation or the patient's experience? If they have not yet done so, it is imperative that they start to critically evaluate their words before they express what can often be perceived as dismissive or trivialising statements.

Such comments intentionally reinforce feelings of alienation and misunderstanding in patients. Autistic people frequently meet with unaccommodating and misinformed health needs and experiences. When a doctor responds with "that's strange," it inadvertently suggests that the patient’s experiences are invalid. This leads to a breakdown in communication, where the patient feels unheard, misunderstood, or even stigmatised. It is vital for healthcare professionals to approach their patients with empathy and an open mind. This means acknowledging each patient presents a distinct set of experiences, symptoms, and narratives that may not fit neatly into established medical frameworks.

The medical community must strive to educate itself about autism and the differences in health-related contexts. This includes understanding that autistic people may communicate differently, experience pain or discomfort in unique ways, and have specific sensory sensitivities that can complicate their healthcare experiences. By cultivating a deeper awareness of these factors, medical professionals can enhance their diagnostic acumen and provide more effective, personalised care. Ultimately, the goal should be to create a healthcare system where every patient feels seen, heard, and respected. In doing so, medical professionals not only improve the quality of care for autistic patients but also contribute to a broader culture of compassion and understanding that benefits all patients.

Language: The Silent But Deadly Weapon In Autistic Healthcare Experience

Language has the power to start wars and kill many people, and it can even end dynasties that have stood for centuries. Throughout history, we have witnessed how the misuse or manipulation of language can escalate tensions between nations, leading to devastating conflicts, destruction of communities, and profound societal changes. The rhetoric employed by leaders can ignite passions, create divisions, and rally groups around a cause, sometimes with catastrophic consequences. This demonstrates that language is not merely a tool for communication, but a formidable weapon that can shape the course of history. Therefore, before we embark on any unnecessary war or conflict, it is important to develop a deeper appreciation for semantics, particularly in sensitive environments such as healthcare, where the implications of language can significantly impact patient outcomes.

In the context of healthcare, the nuances of language take on even greater importance. When we consider the experiences of patients, the way healthcare providers communicate can either facilitate healing or contribute to distress. Language in this setting must be approached with care, as it can evoke a range of emotions and reactions. The terminology used in diagnosis, treatment discussions, and even casual interactions can lead to feelings of empowerment or, conversely, confusion and trauma. It is essential that healthcare professionals recognise the weight of their words and strive to communicate with empathy and clarity.

Interestingly, advancements in artificial intelligence are shedding light on the critical role of language in shaping human experiences. AI systems are increasingly adept at analysing the significance of language, recognising patterns, and understanding the subtleties of human communication. These systems meticulously categorise phrases and terms through the use of metadata, allowing them to grasp the context and emotional weight behind words. As a result, AI can assist in crafting messages that are more sensitive and appropriate for diverse audiences. This raises an important question: if AI can effectively navigate the complexities of language to enhance understanding and minimise harm, why are human healthcare providers still grappling with the challenge of selecting the right words to avoid inflicting pain or trauma on their patients?

The impact of language extends beyond the immediate interaction between healthcare providers and patients. Often, healthcare professionals are caught in the heat of the moment, allowing their emotions to dictate their language choices, which leads to misunderstandings, or worse, intentional harm. The narratives constructed around health conditions, mental health, and disabilities can shape societal perceptions and influence policy decisions. A shift in language can lead to a shift in attitudes and behaviours, ultimately affecting the quality of care and support that individuals receive. Therefore, it is imperative for those in the healthcare field to engage in ongoing education about the power of language and its potential to create a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare environment for autistic people.

In this age of rapid technological advancement, the ability of language to influence human experiences cannot be overstated. As patients navigate the already complex landscape of healthcare, it is fundamental to recognise that the words of medical professionals carry weight and can have far-reaching consequences. By doing so, medical providers can harness its power for constructive purposes rather than destructive ones. Emphasising the importance of autism-friendly language and promoting awareness of its impact can better provide healthcare services. If healthcare providers can better understand the perspectives and experiences of autistic people, they can choose their words more thoughtfully, thereby reducing the risk of inflicting pain or trauma. By enhancing their understanding of semantics and prioritising thoughtful communication, medical professionals can work towards a healthcare system that not only acknowledges the power of language but also utilises it to promote genuine patient-specific care, understanding, and dignity for all patients.

What changes in language would you like to see in your healthcare?