Ashton

“I’ve been told a few times that I don’t act like I have autism”

What is your disability?

I have autism spectrum disorder, formerly known as Asperger Syndrome.

What are some things you enjoy?

I enjoy reading and playing video games, for me these are an escapism thing.

What are you good at?

I am very articulate, and my memory is very good which meant I did quite well at school because I could remember the work.

What are some of the challenges you go through?

Being in a crowd heightens my anxiety because I have difficultly processing multiple stimuli. It makes me feel restless and unsafe and I get overwhelmed and have to concentrate.

How has your disability impacted you?

I have difficulty understanding my own emotions, but I’ve formed ways of recognising what my emotions are.

Do you have a message?

If we treat all people like human beings, then it should not matter if anyone has a disability.