Dustin's Dynasty: Recent Episodes
Dustin
In this video, I share how it is important to fulfill life's obligation while continiuing to recognize when you need to take a time out and care for you by practicing self-care.
In this video, I share how autistics thrive off of routines and riutuals, why they are important to autistics and how they are the culprit of behavior in autistic individuals.
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In this video, I share how it is important to recognize when you need to take a time out and care for you by practicing self-care.
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In this video, I share the struggles faced with letting go of thoughts that are invalid and moving forward with my life in the direction that it needs to go.
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In this video, I share how it is important to be an adult when you are an adult along with the struggles that autistic adults face when it comes to navigating challenging moments throughout the day such as having to be flexible and controlling your emotions.
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In this video, I share how it is important to be an adult when you are an adult along with the struggles that autistic adults face when it comes to completing adult responsibilities and meeting norms and expectations of the real world.
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In this pocast, I share how it is important to have purpose and motivation to do things as an autistic adult and how it can be a struggle to get started with such, including myself
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In this video, I share how anxiety keeps many autistic people, including myself from doing things that come easy to the neurotypical population
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In this video, I share ideas of autistic self-care and how that is different from that in self care in neurotypical individuals
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In this video, I share how I am learning to beging to shift the focus and see the potential that I have and value it more than what is going on in the present moment.
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In this video, I share how things have improved in the past seven months since my mental health relapse and starting to make positive and healthy decisions for the better.
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In this podcast, I share how I have discovered through a journey of self-discovery to recognize and understand my emotions and feelings along with understanding what others feel about you and how to accept them as well.
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In this video, I share how I have discovered through a journey of self-discovery how some things must never change and that keeping them in place finally allows me to have a brighter outlook on life!
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In this video, I share how meltdowns exist in autistic adults well into adulthood and how taking care of myself and learning from past experiences has helped keep them to a minimum.
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In this video, I share the necessity of filling empty periods of time by keeping engaged in order to not remain adherent to my medication regimen along with keeping the ruminating thoughts at bay.
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In this video, I share how much I progressed in the six months since I had a manic episidode from relapsing from my medication regimen and how importnat the latter is going forward.
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In this video, I share how I am am learning the necessity of replacing habits in order to better take care of my mental health.
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In this video, I share how I am now embracing the necessity of dedicating myself towards the importance of my independence and the necessity of the things it requires
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Join me in a pre-recorded video as I share with you the things I was thankful for each day in January 2024 and explain the why behind them.Idea courtesy of the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation Calendar. For more information visit https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/
31daychallenge #31daysofgratitude #grateful
In this video, I share how I embraced a major change and the importance of embracing it and the necessary adaptations in order to go through the motions.
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In this video, I share how I embraced a major change and how it is helping me become more independent..
In this video, I continue to share as my epiphany continues to develop of why I need to be more medication adherant after many years of not being so.
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In this video, I share my epiphany of why I need to adhere to the word of 2024 that I set for myself, WELLNESS...Each and Every Day!
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In this video, I share my experience with anger and frustration and how it relates to meltdowns and communicative behavior.
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In the first podcast of 2024, I outline all that lies within the reality of life and what I need to accept and work on for 2024
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In the last podcast of 2023, I outline all the good, bad and ugly things in that happened this year and look forward to a positive and prosperous 2024.
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There comes a point in one's life that you understand that you must do what you need to do for you and not because someone is just telling you that you need to do it.
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There comes a point in one's life that they will finally surrender the nonsense and the games they are playing and give in to what they need to do if they really want to do, I believe I have again understood and hit that point, despite having some minor challenges along the way.
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Sometimes we need the promise of a new day to remind us that we are here and whatever change is minimal in nature in the grand scheme of things.
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Lately, I have been experiencing excessive fatigue and sleepiness. I am trying to relate as to whether it is indeed autistic burnout or is it the fact that I have been lacking a routine since living independently.
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This vlog is part of the series, The Perfect Storm. In this particular video, I share why it is important to be motivated throughout the day and not allow yourself to get embedded in negativity or things that you cannot change things at that very moment.
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This vlog is part of the series, The Perfect Storm. In this particular video, I share why it is important to stop and think before doing things you may regret along with how this can lead into being vulnerable, victimized and naieve about things. I also share some tips about using social media and how these behaviors play a integral part of acting and advocating for yourself and those you love.
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This episode is part of the series, The Perfect Storm. In this episide, I share my struggles with getting through the week, burnout recovery, the importance of keeping engaged and the necessity of doing things that may not want to be done and can be challenging.
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This vlog is part of the series, The Perfect Storm. In this particular video, I share my experience of making impulse decisions without thinking things through.
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This episode is part of the series, The Perfect Storm. In this particular episode, I share why it is important to connect with others along with sharing some of my experiences in this arena.
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This episode is part of the new series, The Perfect Storm. In this episode, I share my story of my anxiety diagnosis and how my relationship with caffeine, particualry soda interacted with it until August 30th, 2023 when I quit caffeine for good .
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This episode is part of the new series, The Perfect Storm. In this particular video, I explain the importance of emotional self-regulation as well as briefly touch on self-care.
Links:
- Emotional Regulation Strategies (Autism Research Institute, PDF)
- Kely Mahler Introception Groupie sand Occupational Therapist
- The Incredible 5-Point Scale
- Zones of Regulation
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This episode is the starting video of my new series, The Perfect Storm. In this particular video, I explain the how and why we got to this point as well as ways I am working on myself.
Links:
- WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan)
- Some US MH Units have a FREE tool if they are in Network of Care (PDF)
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In my life there have been many times that I wallow in feelings including self-pity, anger, frustration and others. There are also thoughts of wanting to give up, but I also know that I can be a much better person because at times I have the power to be quite an astonishing person.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/08/17/being-the-one-they-know-i-am/
Even if I am in a continued state of progress, it is at times to realize that I am in that state of making strides towards bettering myself. Even if my brain thinks things to the contrary, there is plenty of proof otherwise that outweighs the contrary.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/08/16/wellness-wednesday-knowing-you-are-succeeding/
Something that I know that sometimes hits too close to home for me and is known among those closest to autistic people is the unique paradigm of how we treat those that love us the most. Despite all the love, it can be quite connective, yet it can be also the most taxing for the loved ones.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/08/15/reflections-the-dearest-love-is-hurt-the-most/
Many times, when I hear something that is unpleasant or is not something that I want to hear, don’t want, so forth. I may often immediately jump to conclusions thinking things that are not valid without considering all the reasons that something is the way that it is.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/08/14/adulting-thinking-things-through/
There are times in our lives that as much as we want to be able to change things, we just can’t do that. We must accept things even as they may be challenging for us and manage them the best as we can because we have to accept that we do not always have control of everything in our lives.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/08/10/accepting-challenging-situations/
Recently, it has seemed like life has breezed by for one reason or another. I am at a good point in my life But deep down it can be hard to accept that I have indeed made the progress that I have made and to for once be proud of myself for the achievements that I had made.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/08/09/wellness-wednesday-being-proud-of-my-progress/
Recently, in life finding happiness has come quite easily for one reason or another because I guess I have just chosen to radically accept what is in my life, even if it may be challenging due to things out of my control. I just make due and manage in the outside world because I feel safe in my inside world.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/08/08/reflections-finding-happiness/
Part of being an adult is being able to make the choices that you want to in life. There are times that for one reason or another, you just do not want to do something. Accepting the fact that if you don’t want to do something as long as it is able to be avoided is indeed perfectly acceptable.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/08/07/adulting-if-you-dont-want-to-dont/
For many reasons in my life I have always wondered which of the disability communities I have lived in. Throughout life, I have been given a host of diagnoses alongside of being autistic that has placed me in the gamut of many services that for one reason or another confuses me greatly and questions my competence by others.
Sometimes, it seems that there is a lot of work put in to do the right things, yet there seems to be no light at the end result. However, I am pleased that there is not only progress, but other changes happen to my body that result in me requiring less things in order to be well.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/08/02/wellness-wednesday-progress-happens/
There are times I ponder on the reality of life. I often think that there is nothing beyond the here and now and while I am thankful for the things in life, I wonder in the later years, will I be more happier than I am now, or will it be the status quo.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/08/01/reflections-do-i-know-what-i-want/
As an adult and moreso as an autistic adult, it can be hard to conceptualize reality and realize that there is a point that there are things that must be done in life, whether we like to do them or not, we can not avoid the things that sometimes produce anxiety and the unknown.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/07/31/adulting-doing-the-necessary/
It can be hard to imagine that I have been living on my own for nearly 5 years now, but for the majority of the time I have been functioning well. Except for falling through the whirlwind of not taking care of my mental health, it is quite luckily that I had not gotten into trouble with the legal or other system. When well, I do quite a lot independently.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/07/27/functioning-independently/
Sometimes in the grand scheme of things, it can be hard to keep strong and do what is needed in order to be well. It can be easy to fall into a trap of dysregulation and fall towards a path of destruction when you can not seem to get a grasp of the matters at hand.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/07/26/wellness-wednesday-keeping-strong/
Lately, I have conceptualized the fact that I struggle when I have too much free time on my hands and as such I retreat to bed and disregard the fact that I need to be moving about and doing the necessary things for the day so I do not ruminate on thoughts that deeply boggle my mind.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/07/25/reflections-fighting-isolation/
Sometimes as an autistic person, we often center the world around us, thinking only about our needs. This can irritate others because we can forget or disregard their needs before and only think about ourselves without being considerate of others’ needs.
For most of my life, I have acted quite childish in nature, especially towards my immediate family. As much as my parents support them, there are many times that I am not kind towards them because I feel like I have to get what I want or that I am jealous that I can not be provided an opportunity that I think I deserve.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/07/20/being-the-adult/
As small as progress seems to be going lately, there has been some moving forward in the weight loss department in developing more of a healthy lifestyle. Thus, there has been progress made on the scale and as such, weight has been dropping.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/07/19/wellness-wednesday-moving-forward/
Sometimes, it can be hard to be motivated just as I am writing this blog post. But there comes a time that I have to just find the courage and fight the inner demons within myself and do what is necessary even if my body and brain is telling me differently.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/07/18/reflections-being-motivated/
One of the struggles that autistics face is the willingness to stay clean. While this may not be the case in all autistic individuals, this does come into play for many and is quite the struggle and often requires sometimes subtle or persuasive messages to take care of one’s hygiene.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/07/17/adulting-keeping-yourself-clean/
In this vlog, I explain the difficulties when it becomes necessary to do things that are part of adulting becuase of autism or other struggles.
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My life has come to a point where I am content with the life that I live. It has taken me a while to get to this juncture of radically accepting things for what they are in the present moment. Whale one cannot always have what they want in their lives, having what they need to thrive can be just enough to be content with the life that they live.
Being fit and well has been a long journey for me, but I must accept that I am nearing the point that I am on borrowed time for turning a corner to making changes towards a healthier lifestyle. It is doing what I need to do even if I do not want to because in the end my life depends on me being well so I can live as long as I can and want to .
As we are in modern times, we see the fact that many individuals, including most autistics, are a part of the communities in which we reside. While autistic individuals may live in varying degrees of independence from living on their own such as myself, with family, a community (or group) home or even a semi-lockdown mental health facility, they are a part of the community as as such there needs to be a greater sense of understanding, acceptance and welcoming to the communities in which we reside.
Many times an autistic person thrives off a routine that they cling to for survival in ensuring that the day will be OK. However, there are times when things are abruptly changed and can cause the environment to go off course and send us into a fight or flight state of mind as an autistic person. Nonetheless, we must understand the need to hold it together in many of the challenging situations that autistic people face.
In this vlog, I explain my journey in bits and pieces of learning to communicate effectively and fluently.
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Throughout my life, it has been hard to accept that while you want to do everything in the world, myself or any human simply cannot do such. It has taken me a long time to understand that I had to build a boundary wall around myself and choose who and what I allow to enter my life.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/07/06/accepting-limitations/
In the course of writing my blog on a steady basis, I have never written much about sleep except around this time last year, signifying its importance. Now I have a grasp on the importance of sleep. I have accepted it within myself and that it is necessary for me to have it.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/07/05/wellness-wednesday-accepting-the-importance-of-sleep/
For an autistic person to navigate the world, it is nothing short of a challenge. Our brains and senses often send us into a state of panic because individuals such as myself live in a state of fear and wanting to run away from the things that make us uncomfortable when faced with challenges in our path.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/07/04/reflections-navigating-the-world/
In this vlog, I explain how it can be hard to find the purpose to be motivated to do things especially after periods of autistic burnout and unscheduled changes.
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As is often said, there is no such thing as ‘easy’ autism. Even in myself who has learned and grown so much from the dark ages, it seems many times that I have it all together, but there are times below the surface that it is indeed a struggle to keep things rolling and hold it together.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/07/03/adulting-fighting-the-fight/
Many times, I am fighting the urge of my own bed. This can be a challenge for me as I use it as a position to retreat from my challenging intrusive negative thoughts. When in fact I could be doing many other things to entertain myself instead of using time with little or no benefit and be angry with doing so in the long run.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/06/29/fighting-the-bed/
One of the struggles that autistic individuals face is inability of knowing when to take care of things that are essential for them to be well and have their needs met. It is called Introception and is one of the hidden understandings until you get what is needed to be well.
In my life, there are times when my brain wants me to avoid a situation or going through the motions because it thinks as if the worst possible thing could happen and dysregulates me to the point I avoid the situation. However, I have realized that it is important for me to muster the courage and push myself through the challenges my brain is making for me.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/06/27/reflections-pushing-myself/
So much of today’s society involves the general populace dedicating themselves to the screens. With so many devices always at their reach, there is a love-hate relationship with screen time, especially among the autistic community where screens are often used to stimulate ourselves.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/06/26/adulting-screen-time-balance/
In this vlog, I explain how it can be hard to get motivated to do the necessities of life and keep everything in balance.
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Over the past month, part of understanding the need to be well, I have become more accommodating with the time factor in relation to time management along with accepting the fact that I struggle with executive function and dexterity.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/06/22/executive-function-task-and-time-manaagement/
Over the past few weeks as of this writing, I have been in a state of being more well. This has only resulted in me coming to terms with many things that aid me in the process of being and staying well so I can live independently and function in society.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/06/21/wellness-wednesday-accepting-the-necessities-of-being-well/
Over the past few weeks, I have been fighting at times crushing anxiety about wanting to do things in life that is expected of me, but I somehow fight my way through it and move forward with life even if it a struggle, I somehow find the will and want to be motivated, encouraged and have purpose in life.
For me, sometimes it can be hard to find motivation. This is often curtailed by the onset of autistic burnout and at times it can set me back some if I do not keep an eye on my wellbeing. I know that there has to be a purpose in living and to do that I need to have the motivation to keep going in life.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/06/19/adulting-being-motivated/
In this vlog, I explain how getting back on my medication regimen has helped me get some sense of normalcy and step outside of my comfort zone.
Original Video Link: https://youtu.be/oMV2bcFU3GE
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Sometimes in life, there are circumstances that are beyond our own personal control. As much as we would like to take charge of something and make it ours or have a say, sometimes we cannot be provided such an opportunity and have to roll with the punches as they fly.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/06/15/beyond-my-control/
In my journey of self-discovery lately, I am beginning to learn that consistency is key in wanting to do anything towards making a change for the better. It can be for anything, but in reality it is the sense of knowing that things will never get better for me unless I am consistent with the things that I need to do to make my life better.
In the course of life, the unexpected happens. Oftentimes we as autistic people go to those we seek for the answers to solve our problems at a moment’s notice. However, when we are told the answer that we do not like to hear because it does not meet our needs, then we have to wise up.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/06/13/reflections-wising-up-in-challenging-times/
Today is my 38th Birthday. While it is just a number, in some ways it shows its better parts of the fact that I do need to mature more and just do what I need to do in life instead of letting my challenges continue to set me back out of slight fears and flawed thoughts.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/06/12/adulting-aging-and-maturing/
In this vlog, I explain the purpose of coming to terms with accepting elements of being autistic and well including my medication, task management, sleep, other identies, autistic burnout, fatique and the management of time and autistic spoons.
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Prior to the writing of this post, I was cleaning my emails and was watching a video on the ongoing Direct Support Worker Staffing Crisis in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It featured a majority of autistic individuals unable to receive the support staffing to have their own independence. It made me see the reality, gratitude and necessity of keeping my independence.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/06/08/the-reality-and-gratitude-of-my-independence/
As an old saying goes, you can lead a horse to water, but you cannot force him to drink. That has been the case in both my mental and physical health journeys the past few years. While I sometimes throw smoke and mirrors as if I am doing the right thing, behind the surface for a long time I was hurting and I think I finally found out that doing that will eventually catch up to me in the end.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/06/07/wellness-wednesday-i-can-if-i-want-to/
Everyday anymore, I seem to be fighting anxiety in some state or form. It is this ugly invisible battle that I constantly let grow in my mind until there is a glimpse of freedom and understanding that I just need to snap out of what I am feeling and move on.
After years of fighting the battles I have been fighting for my independence, I have finally come to the terms that I just need to do the things that I need to do and not fight. I know that while I have my moments it is better than ignoring what I need to do and if I just do what needs to be done, things will be better in the end.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/06/05/adulting-just-do-it/
In this vlog, I ask myself the question of 'What gets me up in the morning?" and the challenges of finding motivation, encouragement and purpose.
https://youtu.be/39TIghmeHoQ
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Finally after nearly five years of being independent, I have turned the corner in the right direction and finally at a point where I am living my best life by doing what is best for me after years of doing what was not the best and finally having a reality check that kind of woke me up.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/06/01/living-my-best-life/
For decades, May has been Mental Health Month. Many autistic people have the comorbidity of mental health with their autism. It is sometimes an every day or even every hour battle, but one thing I have learned is that you have to value and respect your mental health for what it is.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/31/wellness-wednesday-value-your-mental-health/
Despite the challenges that I faced or have faced as an autistic man, I am now realizing that I need to have a sense of pride and be proud of myself for fighting the challenges and being proud of how far I have come over the decades of my life.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/30/reflections-being-proud-of-me/
A trait that an autistic person has is the difficulty in making decisions when the opportunity is given for them to do so. It can be hard for us to lock in on a final decision without understanding possible barriers or ramifications that may provide to us and those around us.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/29/adulting-decision-difficulty/
In this vlog, I share the traits of Autism and how they affect me in my life and how I have begun to accept myself and other autistics on the planet.
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Life ebbs and flows. For me, my emotions sometimes run the gamut of being high and low. There are times I feel at peace with myself and there are times I think the world is crashing down on me and I think things are the worst they ever could be. All in all, it is muddling through it and knowing that I can never give up is what keeps me going.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/25/managing-emotions/
Recently, I had recognized without scheduling that I needed to just take a day for myself. This was at first a hard thing for me to do as I initially felt as if it was some sort of punishment, but in reality it was a really good thing and I was validated for doing what I needed to do.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/24/wellness-wednesday-taking-time-for-you/
Over the past few weeks, I am finally getting my life back on track after a long course of not doing what I needed to do to care for my mental health. Being in denial and playing games with my medicine in the course of nearly four and a half years, having a reality check and a really bad meltdown has made me recognize that doing what is right just makes sense.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/23/reflections-doing-what-is-right/
When we are an adult, we have responsibilities that we must engage in, especially if they allow us to have the life we want to have. However, there are times when I recognize that I just need to take a day off and regroup for the purpose of my mental health.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/22/adulting-knowing-when-to-care-for-you/
In this vlog, I share how essential it is for those facing many challgence to practice radical acceptance and accept the reality of the situation in order to be satisfied with their lives.
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As the world is progressing towards accepting the global pandemic of COVID-19 that has been looming over all the world over the past three years, I am starting to realize how much it changed me from doing some of the things that I used to do in life and how much my life has changed since the pandemic.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/18/the-outside-world/
Note: The topic of suicide is mentioned in this blog post. If you feel you are in need of crisis support reach out to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 (In the US) or visit my Mental Health Crisis Resoueces on the website.
May is Mental Health Month. It is one of the greatest comorbidities that an autistic individual can experience. Often, we feel in pain mentally and our brain often thinks quickly and at times thinks that dying by suicide is the answer. It can be hard to see at times that there is a reason to live.
Information for Individuals with Neurodivergence from the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
People experiencing a mental health crisis are encouraged to visit https://findahelpline.com/i/iasp to access support services
Living with the challenges that I live with, it can be hard sometimes to understand that I need to show gratitude and appreciation to the people who go many times step up and do what I need them to aid me in having the life that I desire, often not because they have to, but because they want to see me thrive.
https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/16/reflections-gratitude-and-appreciation/
As a person who is autistic and has other challenges, I can only take care of myself as much as I desire to utilize the skills and tools at my disposal. You can have all the skills at your disposal, but if you don’t use them, they have no value and nothing will ever change.
In this vlog, I share how autistic people of all ages can easily be taken advantage of by those who they consider to be their "Friends".
Originally uploaded to YouTube at: https://youtu.be/2aZ7VNVimf8
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Being autistic, it can be hard to manage yourself in a life that just isn’t built for you. You want to do what you want in life, but as you become an adult, there are responsibilities that you must adhere to and just getting out the door to do them can be a challenge sometimes.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/11/managing-yourself/
Throughout life, even though I had challenges that were primarily brought about by cohabitation, my life was pretty well. From being independent almost four and a half years ago until now, I had to learn the hard way that I am responsible for maintaining my own wellness.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/10/wellness-wednesday-responsibilities-of-staying-well/
Being autistic is not something that comes easy. There are oftentimes more rough moments than the moments that shine. Even though the rough moments feel like they are the worst possible thing to happen to you, you have to remember that better days are ahead.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/09/reflections-getting-through-the-rough/
The things that autistic adults such as myself do when we are faced with the challenges of getting through the tough times has astonished me. It has shown me that no matter what I face, I can get through even the toughest of times, even when I fall rough.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/08/adulting-processing-a-crisis/
In this vlog, I share how it can be a struggle to get motivated and move on with the day when we feel down on ourselves.
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When becoming independent from your parents, you may want to throw out some of what they told you when they raised you out the window and do quite the opposite. However, opposing what they advise you may not be the best advice just because they told you. They told you for a reason.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/04/youre-told-for-a-reason/
Whether I like to admit it or not, there is a relationship to the food that I consume and the effect it brings on my emotional behavior. In relation to other things in the journey that I have been facing, I must realize that food plays a part in the relationship I must endure and having the right food helps.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/03/wellness-wednesday-foods-relationship/
Somedays, it is hard to think about how much I have accomplished in my life and how far I have come on the journey of being an autistic person. If you had asked me nearly 20 years ago if I would have been where I was today, I would have laughed in your face and would have thought about just getting through life without a public meltdown.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/02/reflections-being-accomplished/
Sometimes in life, whether we like it or not, we need to see the reality in ourselves. The damage that has been done, that we need to repair it and work toward being a better person, even if in that moment we do not see the need to, we must understand that facing reality many times prevents us from having drastic consequences.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/05/01/adulting-facing-reality/
In this vlog, I share how because of being autistic, there are just some things that you have to do in life and that there are also things that just happen just because it is all the autistic body can withstand.
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For the longest time and still at times, I can be unhappy with myself and not love myself for who I am. But as time goes on it is important to love myself and in fact I am starting to do so and as such it has made me a much happier person than I used to be.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/27/loving-yourself/
Sometimes people have an emotional relationship with food, and I am no different when it come to that. I have felt that at times I felt that I ate out of boredom or to be emotionally pleasured and not having something to fill the void of my empty time, but in reality it is defining my relationship with food and not linking it to a behavior.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/26/wellness-wednesday-my-relationship-with-food-and-behavior/
Being autistic comes with its challenges that is for sure. But when you constantly have a behavior that seems to never go away and you continue to work on it, having it go away after years of doing it, can be painstakingly rough at times.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/25/reflections-changing-behaviors/
On this day of age, we hear this new buzz-word, Self-Advocacy. I am always a firm believer in advocating for yourself and in fact I at times am considered one, however there is an appropriate way to do it and it is important to understand that all needs should be considered when doing so.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/24/adulting-what-makes-self-advocacy/
In this vlog, I share how it is important to accept the realites and evidence in the your life journey even if you may not like to be told things you do not want to hear.
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One common misconception or stereotype when an autistic person exhibits behaviors is that they are having a ‘temper tantrum’ when they do not get the things they want. While this is not always the case and is often confused for a meltdown, when things do not go the way we want them to or when hiccups occur in our daily processes, it can set us back and ultimately result in a tantrum,
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/20/when-things-dont-go-my-way/
With the month of April, it brings a lot of changes with the spring weather abound but for me it has also brought the effects of my work at losing weight the past month and as such my weight has greatly come down in five weeks time because of my due diligence to losing weight.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/19/wellness-wednesday-seeing-a-change/
Being autistic and sometimes facing struggles in life, it can be hard to be resilient when the life we desire brings us down. Many times though, we just need to be given a different avenue to travel in order to succeed and be resilient.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/18/reflections-continued-resilience/
As I am getting older in life and life becomes more real, I am slowly understanding what the term adulting is and that as long as I am able I must do the things in life that others take for granted, as many neurotypicals can face the reality easier, it can sometimes be challenging for the autistic individual.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/17/adulting-what-adulting-really-is/
In this vlog, I share how it is important to just be an adult and do the things that are needed to maintaint the adult lifestyle you want as an autistic person while taking time to recharge when necessary.
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Being autistic, the brain can only think in finding comfort in the ways that we seek rigidity or regimented behavior because it is predictable and comes many times without distress or discomfort. It can also be hard to be receptive to other ideas, opinions or changes in the way life happens.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/13/the-world-does-not-revolve-around-me/
Sometimes when working on our wellness goals, it can be an all-or-nothing way of thinking, but it is important to realize that it takes all dimensions of one’s wellness to create a perfect balance in order to reach optimum wellness and sometimes not having a perfect balance can make your goals not come to fruition.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/12/wellness-wednesday-it-takes-all-dimensions-for-a-perfect-balance/
As one who has had years of seeing things in a negative manner, it can many times be hard to see past the negative of a situation and allow my heart to be receptive to understanding that there are many good things in my life, although negative energy seems to always be at the forefront. I am slowly learning what to do in order to make the negative challenges more manageable for me.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/11/reflection-seeing-past-negativity/
Being an autistic adult, you can have all coping skills at your disposal, but until your brain gets the signal to employ them, they are useless. The brain will continue in the negative state again and again until you deploy them to their benefit.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/10/adulting-coping-signals/
In this vlog, I share how it is important to just get up and do what you need to do despite the inner voices telling you not to or creating excuses because of the challenges of an autistic person's life
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Feelings for me as an autistic person can at times be challenging to manage. My brain is flawed in a sense to continually see the wrong if I am not occupied or in good spirits. It can be easy to continually see and point out the bad, but there are now more times that I see the good.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/06/managing-my-feelings/
When embarking on a journey of trying to do better for yourself, such as I am, you want things to go just right and not backslide or become challenging. As my mother tells me, it is all about the choices we make that make or break us.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/05/wellness-wednesday-not-everyhing-is-perfect/
A few weeks ago, I wrote a post on my platform about not being happy all the time. This stemmed from the fact that I have my moments as everyone does. But in hindsight, it made me realize that I needed to find things in my life that bring me happiness and joy.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/04/reflections-happiness-and-joy/
Throughout life living in my parents’ home, I can remember being told to have a sense of pride and ownership in the tasks I was responsible for to take care of myself. After having a rumspringa of reluctance and it backfiring for some time, I am starting to be heading in the track of having pride and ownership in the simplest of things.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/04/03/adulting-pride-and-ownership-in-mundane-tasks/
In this vlog, I share how it can be hard to see through negative instances or when things do not go according to plan and how to focus on the positive things in your life
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Being through all I have been through in life as an autistic adult, it can be hard to put away the things that were in our past. While they can be used as experiences, they are not elements of my life that I particularly like to continuously dwell in routinely in my life.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/30/that-was-then-this-is-now/
For many years my relationship with being healthy has been quite skewed. I understood that I had a bad relationship with it, but it never registered and I punished myself again and again for the behaviors/relationship without understanding that I needed to improve it.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/29/wellness-wednesday-a-better-relationship-with-my-health/
It is hard to imagine three years ago that I was participating in my first Telehealth Psychotherapy session laying in my childhood bed in a room that was also my parents’ home study but temporarily my refuge from safety during a desolate situation that was exacerbated by the unknowns of the COVID-19 Pandemic, however I am now in a place where I am much better.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/28/reflections-three-years-better/
In recent weeks, with the systems and the world resuming some state of normalcy in my neck of the woods, I have also gotten back to some sense of normalcy and understand more that with adulting comes the importance of having a routine, regimen and ultimately a purpose.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/27/adulting-routine-regimen-and-purpose/
In this vlog, I share my expereince and views about being a member of the community and being a part of the inclusion movement in the school, program and community settings.
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Sometimes as autistics we have to recognize that we are only causing our own damage because what we are thinking is in our head. Sometimes we have to be told the truth and while it can hurt, it can sometimes be the best thing we hear because we are thinking it but don’t want to accept it.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/23/recognizing-faults/
Life is all about choices. When we are adults, and especially with challenges where our brain is wired differently, it can cause the brain to be skewed in nature, causing us to not take care of ourselves and not make the right choice when it comes to being well.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/22/wellness-wednesday-making-the-right-choices/
Sometimes we need a wake-up call to understand how life is and that you need to stop flirting with disaster and just do what is right for once. That was me a few weeks ago and while it was not one certain thing, these events have made me understand the importance of getting back and doing things that I need to do for myself.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/21/reflections-live-as-if-your-life-counts-on-it/
Being an autistic adult in my late-thirties, it can be hard to realize just that. Oftentimes, I want to bring my challenges and concerns to the spotlight and make it all about me in a very immature kind of way as if I deserve to have the negative attention and others, especially those in my close circle deserve the anguish I lash out at them.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/20/adulting-fighting-immaturity/
In this vlog, I share the effects of what was needed to help me Change by having an awareness that I needed to, a desire to do it and craft behaviors to make a plan come to fruition.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube
It can be hard to say that I get through Life’s Challenges quite easily especially in a world that is many times not built to meet my needs. Whatever life throws at me, I somehow conquer it and fight it off and become myself and even better sometimes because of it.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/16/getting-through-lifes-challenges-2/
Last week, I had mentioned that the week before I switched to a more convenient gym closer to my home. Last week was also my first visit there and just making the first move makes me more inspired to get out and do what is needed to make the changes more constant in my life.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/15/wellness-wednesday-making-that-first-move/
Many times, I disregard the fact that I am a well-liked person and am often seen as an example of someone who faces their challenges. While I do my best, it is important to know that I too am not perfect and have my moments as well.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/14/reflections-leading-more-by-example/
One of the hardest things when it comes to living my life is having to do things that adults do. While these sometimes may have a more intensive degree of intensity for an autistic person, many times it just takes getting out the door, and getting off to a right start.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/13/adulting-being-the-adult/
In this vlog, I share examples of how I practice resiliency in my life and some examples of how I fight my struggles daily
Buy the shirt I am wearing: (A fundraiser for Autism Westmoreland through the Greensburg, PA VFD)
In this video, I share how autistics thrive off of routines and riutuals, why they are important to autistics and how they are the culprit of behavior in autistic individuals.
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Today, I celebrate 13 years of being employed at my current employer and while 13 seems like a superstitious number, I am proud of that number as I know I am lucky to be able to reach this milestone.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/10/13-years-of-work/
As a fellow advocate says, life ebbs and flows. Many times when we are at our worst it can be difficult to see the positive in a situation. It can be hard to get out of the loop of negativity sometimes, but with reassurance and constant reminding of why you need to keep going will help you on your way.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/09/balancing-engagement/
Being autistic, you constantly second guess yourself and whether you are doing the right thing. I am always wondering whether or not it was a “good move” to do something or not. But, when it is something that will have a little bit of an effect on you, then there is no harm in doing it.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/08/wellness-wednesday-following-through-and-breaking-the-fear-factor/
As I continue down the road of bettering myself and my journey continues, I am better understanding the value of being more optimistic about what the future can like for me instead of living in the gloom and doom that I have spent a majority of my life in.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/07/reflections-more-optimistic-less-pessimistic/
In this vlog, I share my recent journey with being angry about past situations and how I am slowly letting go, at peace, happy and grateful for being in the present moment.
As an autistic person who spent a great deal of their adulthood living under the same roof as their parents, I was never able to have a sense of who I was without my parents having some involvement, however as I am spending time being independent, I am developing my own identity.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/06/adulting-defining-your-identity/
In this current age, we rely on electricity for so much to function in our daily lives. Being autistic, it can be the thing if we let us tear us apart and cause us to melt down because the lives we know are uprooted, but because of our challenges it can seem like the end of the world. In the first of being prepared series, I share my recent experience with a 16-hour power outage.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/04/being-prepared-power-outages/
Being autistic there is a great deal about balancing what you can do versus what you cannot. However, there is a point that you have to realize that it is imperative to get up and get moving about because it is good for not only your physical health, but your mental health as well.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/02/getting-moving-about/
Always with my mind focusing on the need to lose weight on my obese body, I had the opportunity recently to attend a webinar to learn how to organize the food in my kitchen and I realized that I needed to let go of the food that had no use to me in my life.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/03/01/wellness-wednesday-systematic-organizing/
After working to let go of what was over the past few weeks, I am beginning to learn to accept that I need to be thankful for where I am and that I am in a better place than the past. Although there were benefits to the past, the outcome now outweighs the struggles of the past.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/28/reflections-being-happy-with-life-now/
A few weeks ago, while watching TV, I discovered the term deflection. It is a defense mechanism that people use to take the blame off of themselves. When they are deflecting, they are trying to make themselves feel less bad for their wrongdoings. This likely happens due to past experiences of being in trouble for things.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/27/adulting-deflecting/
In this vlog, I explain the importance of an autistic adult having their own life choices in preferences from my own experience and that of those that care for autistic individuals.
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Growing up, I was always told never to use my challenges as an excuse or rely on others to solve my problems as a “crutch.” However as the evolution of autism has evolved over the years, I am discovering that many of life’s struggles are indeed because of being autistic.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/23/because-of-being-autistic/
Recently, being more agitated and defensive than normal, it was conveyed to me that I may have been doing something to aid that process. I then looked back and realized that indeed I had been and it has been the culprit many times to me eventually ending up in meltdown or other controversial behaviors.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/22/wellness-wednesday-knowing-the-culprits/
A few weeks ago in my Reflections blog, I wrote about letting go of the past. And as time moves and others move on with life, it somehow seems that I cannot let the events of my past escape my mind and I continually think because they happened to me then, it is still that way and always will be.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/21/reflections-everyone-else-is-moving-on-so-why-cant-i/
As I am learning more and more what is the culprit of my being autistic, I am learning that things that many neurotypicals consider as “normal tasks” like running errands for example, can be intensified because of being overloaded with excessive stimuli and other environs.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/20/adulting-normal-tasks/
In this video, I explain the importance of keeping up and enaged through the day by keeping happy and busy about life, especialy during alone times.
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It has been some time since my last meltdown, but I have improved significantly since then. There are many factors that made me realize that I want to avoid having them and that employing the proper coping strategies, defense mechanisms and safeguards will help me achieve that
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/16/meltdown-epiphanies/
Sometimes being autistic, it can be hard to understand that your body has a limit on what it can do. As such I have learned the hard way that things have to happen in order for me to be my best self and not fall into the trap that I have long fallen into.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/15/wellness-wednesday-understanding-your-limits/
Today is Valentine’s Day and for me I see very little value to it. While I am not the one to shoot down the fact that there is no love in the world. In fact it can be a very enjoyable thing. As Valentine’s Day is more about romance, as I lately discovered myself, it is something that I just have never seen in myself.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/14/reflections-what-is-love/
For a majority of my life I have had periods of ruminating thoughts enter my headspace. Like last week’s adulting blog post on Intrusive thoughts, the intrusive thoughts become ruminating thoughts when the “loop” over and over in your headspace non-stop.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/13/adulting-rumination/
In this video, I explain the intensity of the senses that autistic people face and how impactful it can be in the daily life in comparison to our neurotypical peers.
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Sometimes as autistic people, we are gullible to believe everything we hear and think something may work for us. In reality, it can be more damaging than you can imagine and the time to bounce back from where you were is a challenge. Three years from hitting rock bottom, I hope I can keep moving forward and less backwards.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/09/not-falling-back/
I will have to admit for the better part of four years, not being coherent with my medication regimen has wreaked havoc with my mood stability constantly. This in turn makes life for me very volatile and as a result things lack in getting done and eventually the bottom falls out. I am slowly realizing that I need to get on track once and for all to have optimum wellness.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/08/wellness-wednesday-moods-role-in-wellness/
With the new developments in the new year, I have been reflecting deeply on where I was four years ago as the bottom was starting to fall out on my mental wellness. It reminds me that I never want to get to that point again, to try to strive better and advocate for change,
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/07/reflections-four-yearsmuch-growth/
Having the comorbidity of Anxiety alongside being autistic can provide many challenges for me. One of those challenges I constantly battle is intrusive thoughts. These thoughts often pop into my headspace without warning and at times loop very much to the point they bring me down.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/06/adulting-intrusive-thoughts/
In this video, I explain my expereince and recovery in the three years since my last mental health crisis.
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As an autistic person, our brains can constantly be in overdrive. It can be constantly brewing thoughts that can sometimes be negative and if they are allowed to spiral and obsess out of control. Having a healthy balance of when to entertain and rest your mind is key in living independently as an autistic person.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/02/mindfully-resting/
As we start the second month of 2023, I am continuing the journey of having a positive mindset in 2023. I am making so many changes for the better, letting go of the past and allowing myself to be my true and genuine self while understanding I want to be an overall healthier person.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/02/01/wellness-wednesday-new-yearnew-mindset/
As we end the first month of 2023, it can be proven that I have been more regulated. This started in 2022 and was made steadfast in 2023. It has taken hard work on parts of me as a human being and a person with my challenges to understand life and how things finally work.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/31/reflections-being-more-regulated/
Being an autistic adult, it can be hard to recognize that you have to know how you are regulating your mood. This can play a part in having a sense of it when having to interact with others and recognize when you need to take a break and take care of yourself before moving on.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/30/adulting-sense-of-mood/
In this video, I explain my expereinces with meltdown and fits of anger / rage and how I have greatly lessened them over time.
Originally uploaded to YouTube https://youtu.be/DFGdGgifGZE
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Whether we like to hear things or not, it can sometimes be a struggle to accept them for what they are. Having to follow through with things because it is necessary for us to be there or be our best selves can sometimes be hard to see if you don’t feel it, but you must know it's right.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/26/doing-whats-right/
As 2023 arrived, I realized that I needed to do a reality check on all things on the wellness front. I had to realize that in 2023 I needed to get real about all parts of wellness, physical, mental and spiritual.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/25/wellness-wednesday-having-better-habits/
As I started 2023 a few weeks ago, I am working to be a better me. One of those things I did that I didn’t even know that I would be doing would be letting go of things that were bothering me and trying to focus on what I needed spiritual guidance on.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/24/relections-letting-go-of-what-i-cannot-change/
For the majority of my life, I could never see the positive of a situation. No matter what was presumed of a situation, I would bring up some sort of negative connotation or the worst thing about something that could be intended to be a nice day out.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/23/adulting-keeping-positive-energy/
In this video, I explain my recent and past expereinces with concrete thinking and the need to advocate for better knowledge among the systems to bring awareness to one's challenges.
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Recently, I have realized and accepted that much of my moments regarding increased anxiety and anger result from struggling with the fact that I need to prepare myself to transition to something outside of a safe space to something that has the potential to be unpredictable or where I have no control. I have also understood that this is what comes with being autistic.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/19/struggling-with-transitions/
I know that I need to advocate for my recent struggle and want to get my words across, but I feel that this is the best way to do it.
Being autistic, I take things at face value and am a concrete thinker.
When told that your life could end, it is without a doubt quite the scare.
Thanlfully, after further tests, the scare became nothing than just a internal error and I have been medically cleared.
However, as an advocate, I feel there needs to be change in notifying those that work in ALL systems of the barriers individuals such as myself have when communicating sensitive information in a way that is more dignified, sensitve to my needs and does not result in the challenges and scare that I have had over the past 48 hours.
As advocates, we must do better in finding ways to communicate to those in ALL systems that perform any kind of care to us our challenges and ways to best address situations.
We must do better.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/18/we-must-do-better/
My brain is often wired to see the bad in my life. There are however many good things in my life and one focal point of being well is seeing that my wellness is better than I think it is often, regardless of wanting to think negatively about things that happen.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/18/wellness-wednesday-recognizing-wellness/
Sometimes in life as a person in general, we need to realize that we need to move on beyond the points that we think we can defend ground in a reason of why something should be. It has taken radical acceptance in many cases to understand that there are things that must be in life or that cannot be controlled by me to grasp reality in the present moment.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/17/reflections-moving-on/
I had always practiced what is known today as masking for autistic individuals before the term was coined in modern years. Bringing the term to light ensures that the reality of the issue as it relates to the day to day operations of an autistic person.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/16/adulting-masking-autistically/
In this video, I explain my recent discovery of struggling with transitions, of which has been the catalyst for anxiety for many years. Reaching this discovery hopefully will put things in a more positive perspective.
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As I started the new year, I mutually made the decision to discharge from a mental health service that felt that I am at a point of wellness that it has become more of a struggle to find issues to address.. It is accepting that I am improving my mental health journey and am ready to move towards bigger and better.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/12/doing-better-moving-forward/
Part of being well is having the understanding that there are things in life that must be endured. Even though I am an adult, it can be hard at times to play the adult in me and this can present a challenge in being well.
This is also uploaded as a blog post: https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/11/wellness-wednesday-managing-adulting/
While understanding my own autism in recent months, I have begun to learn to be more accepting and understanding of the traits of my autistic peers. While there can be barriers in understanding how other autistics operate, it is something I realized that I needed to do to improve my relationship with the autistic community at-large.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/10/reflections-understanding-traits/
Being an adult means that there are obligations in life that must be endured. Whether or not, there are just some things in life that we as adults cannot get out of because of our need to be present for many purposes.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/09/adulting-understanding-life-obligations/
In this video, I explain about the promises and changes for my 2023
Originally Uploaded to YouTube
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As a neurodiverse person, it can be hard to understand your body. This can be hard in knowing what you can manage versus what you cannot. It can be challenging when entering a world that just isn’t made for the neurodiverse population.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/05/understanding-your-body/
Being autistic, my brain is constantly overthinking. It can be a wonder sometimes when I know I need to take a break. It can be the fact of having to fight with my body for the need to just relax and take it easy so I do not become overwhelmed or overloaded to the point that I completely shut down.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/04/wellness-wednesday-taking-a-break/
Since the onset of social media, I am learning more and more about others from their experiences. It is knowing which sources are reliable and valid. Overall, it has made me know that I am not the only one that has traits or similarities in some ways to other autistics.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/03/reflections-knowing-i-am-not-alone/
One of my biggest struggles that I have had in my time being on my own is when I have to “call it a night.” My brain is always flowing with ideas of things to do and see throughout the day and whether or not my body sometimes thinks it needs to shut down, I often want to fight my body and not shut down for the day.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2023/01/02/adulting-calling-it-a-night/
In this video, I explain about having freedom and understanding that as an autistic person, it comes at a price and with responsibility.
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- My Autism News Feed: https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/category/autism-news/
- Online Safety / Usage: https://dustinsdynastyusa.com/resources/online-safety-usage/
In this video, I share how autistics thrive off of routines and riutuals, why they are important to autistics and how they are the culprit of behavior in autistic individuals.
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When you enter life on your own, having freedom can either be good for you or bite you in the tail. Over the past four years, it spun me into rock bottom and I had to pick up the pieces. It also made me realize that I had to define who I was and how to take care of myself.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/29/defining-yourself/
As we near the end of the year and work our way to ringing in 2023 in a few days, a few weeks ago I have accepted the fact that doing what I need to do in order to protect myself is OK, acceptable and sometimes appreciated in order to maintain optimal wellness and protect others.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/28/wellness-wednesday-doing-what-you-need-to-do/
With today being the last Reflections Post of the Year, I find it necessary to give a wrap of the year and realize that I am in a better place at the end of this year compared to years past given a multitude of circumstances in my path. I am hoping to start 2023 much better.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/27/reflections-2022-was-a-better-year/
One common trait of autism is the fact that many thrive off of routine and some can be very rigid to it as they can be to many things in life. While over the years I have been more flexible with my routine in many cases, it is what defines my day and keeps me going.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/26/adulting-setting-your-schedule/
In this video, I explain my continual battle with my mental health and not falling into negative behavior while feeling optimistic about the future.
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Most of my life as a neurodivergent person, the holidays have been a struggle for me to muddle my way through because of all the factors that it involves. Yet, as I am finally settled in a better place in my mind, I am realizing that I need to define my own or new traditions.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/22/defining-the-holidays/
As we approach the holiday season and near the end of the year, I often think of making new habits. Notice that I said habits and not resolutions, those are different!
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/21/wellness-wednesday-creating-better-habits/
To my loved ones throughout my life, I was often considered lazy. This continually-fed train of thought led me into the current chapter of my life thinking that until I learned about the amount of energy needed for me to endure the motions of the day.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/20/reflections-being-considered-lazy/
As any adult, there are responsibilities that must be endured if you want to survive. Granted, if you are autistic or have other challenges, they can be impossible or a struggle to do or complete. However, I had to learn in a hurry that being on my own comes with responsibility,
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/19/adulting-responsibilities-of-living/
In this video, I explain how autistic indivdiduals can be gullable to believing things, particuarly others along with being bias withouth verification of what's being told.
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We’ve talked some on radical acceptance in both the Adulting and Reflections columns of my blog, but what I had to understand recently is the fact that radical acceptance is what is needed in order to endure what I need to do in order to be well.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/15/radical-acceptance/
When people think of being autistic, they often think of it as this profound way of thinking we are unable to do things that neurotypicals can do. We can and wes often put up a lot to be included and do everything else that we are asked to do, but not every day is perfect, nor can it be.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/14/wellness-wednesday-there-are-bad-days-too/
In the past few weeks, I have witnessed the loss of many and the point has been made to not take anything for granted because we are not guaranteed it forever. It made me realize how I do not want to be robbed of any more time of my life from not taking care of my health.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/13/reflections-robbed-of-time/
I am not surprised that I haven’t written about having a purpose as the topic for the weekly adulting post of my blog. Sometimes, you just have the epiphany to know about something that you just have to share it. Last week was one of those moments where I learned I need to have purpose in my life.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/12/adulting-purpose/
In this video, I explain the importance of having purpose as an autistic person along with having the willingness to follow through with those activities that provide purpose in the daily routine of an autistic person.
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One of the common misconceptions of being autistic is the fact that we don’t show empathy or know how to be kind to others. Oftentimes this is brought to light in the first time that you get to know us, because if you knew who I am, I am quite the empath and can show empathy.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/08/how-can-i-be-an-empathetic-empath/
Without much ado, many of my followers have withstood me throughout the struggles since literally the writing of my blog with my medication. I am proud to say that with all honesty, I only missed one dose in all of the last prescription box. This is a BIG achievement for me.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/07/wellness-wednesday-medication-milestone/
For the majority of the past four years or so of living on my own, I have struggled with making encounters with my family positive. I was mostly trapped in a vacuum of thinking like I did when I lived with them because their reactions would trigger me to do so. This also traditionally left the last words I had during these visits be negative and I would regret my word choice.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/06/reflections-better-family-visits/
I am accepting and learning that in order to stop feeling so miserable about my life that I need to reframe former behaviors that I once had from happening in my life. It is no one’s fault for those behaviors, it was the fact that I valued them more than they needed to.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/05/adulting-reframing-behavior/
I am back in better spirits and learning my stressors of being in the loop (of ruminating thoughts), the trap (of self-pity) and (Radically) Accepting my neurodiversity.
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One of the traits of being autistic is the fact that we see things in “black and white” and hardly any “gray” areas of a situation. For the longest time, I struggled with the fact that things have to be exactly as they need to be or they can’t be right.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/12/01/life-isnt-perfect-2/
If you noticed in my feature blog last week, I titled it “Why Can’t I just be happy? It goes without saying that as soon as I wrote that post, I began to feel better about myself and have a whole different outlook on life as a result of seeing life in a different way.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/30/wellness-wednesday-being-in-a-better-place-2/
Recently, while in the process of discovering what a better life is for me, understanding things and giving myself grace for the things I have endured over the years. I count my blessings of how lucky I am to be here and not be as damaged from my decline and rise above it
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/29/reflections-three-years-grace/
They say it takes 21 days to make a new habit stick to one’s routine. When you are autistic and are used to things always being the same and then being uprooted and it being a significant change, it can be difficult to adapt to significant change,
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/28/adulting-difficulty-adapting-to-change/
CONTENT WARNING: Death of an Autistic Person
In this video, I share one example of how an autistic person reacted to being told NO and conseqently resulted in them being deceased, therefore I feel it is important to make aware of how I understood the reality of the need to not react negatively to things that I do not want to hear.
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As I get back to where I left off on my journey and finally being happy in the journey as an independent autistic man, I am learning that the things that were the cause of me declining, hitting rock bottom and slowly bouncing back to where I am today had a great deal of what was I allowed my mind to believe.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/22/reflections-mind-battles/
Because of several changes to my schedule over the years, many times my anxiety can play into me being unhappy with my life. It can sometimes run over into other feelings like anger, but most of all, these feelings have become redundant and never seem to end, so it makes me wonder if I will just be happy for once?
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/17/why-cant-i-just-be-happy-for-once/
As we reach the midpoint of November, at the end of October I learned that I gained a significant amount of weight back as a result of me having a continuous flow of delivery food brought to my door. I know that learning and making a lifestyle change will make me feel better and happier about my life.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/16/wellness-wednesday-learning-a-lifestyle-change/
Sometimes in an autistic person’s life there are times we don’t realize that we were the person we were and sometimes it can be hard to realize that others knew who you were all along. Also knowing that you were OK to be the person who you were meant to be all along is good and well too.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/15/reflections-making-things-right/
When you move out of someone that takes care of all your needs, many times it requires you as an independent person to become responsible for being able to make sure every need you need to have met is met. Having additional challenges such as autism can make things like being independent realize the importance of following through with the things that you need to be responsible for on your own.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/14/adulting-being-responsible/
In this video, I share how autistics thrive off of routines and riutuals, why they are important to autistics and how they are the culprit of behavior in autistic individuals.
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Recently, I have been greatly complimented about the progress I have made over the past few years. It can be hard to acknowledge the compliments that I am given, especially if they come from those that it takes a great deal for them to acknowledge my success.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/10/take-the-compliments-and-be-proud/
As the weather cools and the height of the pandemic season looms again, I know that I need to get back out into the community and be less of a hermit. Being isolated does not do well for me and it results in decline of the work that I have done in recent years.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/09/wellness-wednesday-getting-into-the-community/
As autistics, we are more prone to being vulnerable and as a result can be victimized. We often seek validation from others in the way of being liked and appreciated for the things we do to and for ourselves and others and as a result, being led into vulnerable situations can result in being victimized.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/08/reflections-avoiding-victimization-and-vulnerability/
One of the common stereotypes of being autistic is the fact that we do not want a friend or have difficulty in maintaining friendships as we struggle socially. While that may be a factor with some autistics, that is not always the case, there is importance of having and being a friend to those both on the spectrum or neurotypicals, whether or not they have challenges or not, all friendships are valid.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/07/adulting-the-importance-of-friendship/
In this video, I share the Issues I faced from a month of eating delivery food constantly and how it made me realize that I needed to up my game once again towards being healthy.
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Recently, I have realized how much more accepting I have came at embracing my autism for what it is and recognizing the need of having accommodations to better manage myself in situations that may be challenging for me that I would otherwise have struggles in getting through.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/03/embracing-my-autism-and-recognizing-accommodations/
Being two years in my current home this week and over four years from moving out of my parents home for the first time has certainly been a rollercoaster ride, that is for sure. It has been quite an experience and for once I seem to be slowing down, but when a minor setback arises, it can be easy to catastrophize it into not being well. Sometimes I need to see the whole scope of how far I have come in my journey, especially the past 2-3 years.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/02/wellness-wednesday-accepting-how-far-i-have-come/
Today marks the 25th month of living in my current home. It is something that I continue as I close on the second year of living here. My blessings and gratitudes of having more of my own life as we move into the better future and good times ahead.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/11/01/reflections-counting-my-blessings-two-years-later/
Being autistic, we often seek for others to understand our quirks and how we operate, but does anyone ever ask us how we embrace others with different or more complexing challenges than what we endure or how we navigate the challenges of those that we may not know how to properly accept and be willing to fully cooperate and understand.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/31/adulting-accepting-all/
In this video, I share the barriers of transitioning from one thing to another with autstics along with accepting the accomodations and necessary things to do to make transitioning easier among autistics.
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As I commonly say to not only myself as a pep talk but to others with similar diagnosis, “sometimes things happen” I for one, catastrophize the worst possible scenario, but it is critical for us to keep our calm in those situations so those who need to orchestrate what needs to happen to solve the problem can happen safely.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/27/holding-it-together/
Having been struggling with my weight for an extended period of time, continuing to follow through with what needs to be done in order to lose weight can be a struggle. Life is full of temptations and lack of care, but I know that I must be resilient and continue the fight.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/26/wellness-wednesday-backsliding-fears/
Being an autistic person, doing something that you may not find of interest can be difficult to endure at times. However, there are times in life that we have to do what is asked of us because we do not always know when we will have the opportunity to do the same thing again.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/25/reflections-while-you-can/
Having some time off over the past few weeks provided me some time to self-reflect. As my mind often thinks that it would be in a better place if I remain stagnant in my activity, I also realize the importance of having responsibilities in my life as they provide a purpose for doing things to prevent me from being in a sad state of mental health.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/24/adulting-the-importance-of-having-something-in-your-life/
In this video, I share the importance of embracing an autism diagnosis along with accepting the accomodations and necessary things to do to make life more pleasant as an unmasked autistic individual
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Part of being an independent person is that you have to be OK with the life choices that you make. It can be hard for those close to you to sometimes understand the things you once did while under the care of someone you no longer want to do, but that is because as an independent adult, you have the freedom to do as you choose for your own reasons.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/20/it-only-has-to-make-sense-to-you/
A few weeks ago, I got into a phase. It was something that made life easier but while it is a good invention, it was something that I realized for my physical health isn’t the best choice and while it may be convenient to do because having food of all kinds at your front door, I somehow know that there is a value to eating in an establishment more often than I was.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/19/wellness-wednesday-delivery-dangers/
Most of my life, I was never truly, genuinely happy. I often act as if I don’t deserve happiness in my life or that I have to continually point out something wrong in my life to complain or gripe about, however to many I can point out many things to be thankful for. It is like this weird state of feeling that never seems to go away.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/18/reflections-why-cant-i-just-be-happy/
In this video, I share my experiencs with trying to find motivation after decades of primarily being told my faults instead of my praises.
Originally uploaded to YouTube https://youtu.be/kANlIRUoZ98
In my life as an autistic person, the (dys)regulation of my emotions can be extremely absurd. In moments for me to be happy I can be angry about them because they free me from what I initially want free of, but at that point I want to be with the only thing that I want to get away from.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/17/adulting-emotional-dysregulation/
Sometimes, I ask myself, why do I keep on going? Why do I never give up? I often make statements about not doing things in my life because of how I feel at that moment about them, yet I continue to do things because I know that they are the right thing to do.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/13/why-i-keep-on-going/
Living on my own as an autistic adult alongside having several other challenges can be difficult in the sense of managing my emotions or time. Finally after being out of what has been a long and dark tunnel, I continue to find the sense of having to find some sort of satisfaction with the days that I am living.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/12/wellness-wednesday-feeling-satisfied/
As I am becoming more stable as an independent autistic adult, I am realizing that I am being given more freedoms that for so long that I never felt that I had. Being under my parents’ house for the majority of 3.5 decades and now having the ability to make adult decisions seems surreal and at times hard to realize that I am indeed allowed to make my own decisions.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/11/reflections-a-sense-of-satisfaction/
Living life as an autistic man finally free of all things that are true issues, I can see and actually feel the light at the end of the battle tunnel. I have been bored most of my adult life. The issue is actually being happy and satisfied with my life as it is and not overthinking about impending gloom and doom as I often have been doing the majority of my life.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/10/adulting-happiness/
In this video, I share my experiencs with trying to find happiness after decades of primarily being told my faults instead of my praises.
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As an autstic adult, understanding that things happen can be a struggle to forget. My brain wants me to be hard on myself for the things that I am not perfect or not my best at. I am slowly learning to accept things for what they are while knowing my best and moving forward.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/06/accepting-moving-on/
Recently, I have been facing the struggle of not doing all the things I need to do to be healthy. I know what I need to do. I know it works, yet I get lazy or get careless because of being unmotivated or wanting to feel good.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/05/wellness-wednesday-doing-whats-right/
A week ago today, it was national son’s day. My mother posted to Facebook a post saying how proud she was of me. At that moment in time, I was feeling really down on myself about the things I have put her through and how could she be proud of me? Her being optimistic and a part of her life makes me realize how much more I need to value her for our relationship.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/10/04/reflections-a-mothers-love/
Throughout life, I have been taught not to counteract things that I may not agree with. In the self-advocacy movement, the view can always be conflicted with arguing or complaining to get what you want like a spoiled little brat. As I continue to grow older in life, I am learning that unless there is a significant need to speak up, which I can cautiously do, then it is best to be a good sport and go with what is moving forth.
In this video, I share my experiencs with regulation both in co-regulation roles along with emotionally regulating myself along with being indepedent and the continual need of seeking validation as well as sensing no trouble ahead on the horizon.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/nwzuMF70Ros
As we are nearing the third year of the pandemic, I am beginning to understand the need to let my fears diminish and find wellness via my own dimensions, whatever that may be. As always, getting out of the door can be the hardest part of doing something that is uncomfortable for me and many other autistic individuals, but once we know we are OK, we excel at what we are doing.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/29/understanding-the-need-to-get-out/
Last week I have been experiencing the importance as an autistic individual to properly balance my time more. The past few years have changed the way we have thought about time and how we spend it. However, with the world getting back into some state of normalcy, it is imperative that there needs to become a balance of how we spend our time as people.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/28/wellness-wednesday-balance-of-time/
As fall arrives, in the housing complex I arrive in is usually an overall maintenance inspection of the property and this year was no different. As I traditionally have the past two years, I asked my mother to aid in getting the apartment ready for inspection. As I have improved in my skills since last year, I have also had a better allowance of letting her into my home.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/27/reflections-family-invasions/
In my over 4 year journey of independence as an autistic adult, one of my constant struggles is the fact that I struggle with going to bed. This is further enhanced with the belief that because a medication helps me sleep, that it is what puts me into a trance. This is something that was taken literally by me for the longest time and am now turning a corner for the better.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/26/adulting-bedtime/
In this video, I explain some helpful things that I do for my personal wellness and make them part of a daily routine and the importance of having these tasks as part of a basic care routine in order to stay well.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube at https://youtu.be/fRMFszIGRv4
As I concluded in this week’s Reflections post, autistics across the spectrum are enduring things that seem like we are at times reversing the clock from where we have come back to the way things were. I used to be in what was the dark ages and have been through so much prior to and during my knowledge of autism that it can sometimes be the fuel that keeps me going in my journey.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/22/the-great-regression/
As we approach the eve of the Fall Equinox, I have been thinking of ways to better intertwine nature into activities of wellness. Being outdoors makes me feel better and there is nothing like the air hitting your face at a time of year like the shoulder season.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/21/wellness-wednesday-change-of-scenery/
Life in the past 2-3 years has been nothing short of a challenge for autistrics across the spectrum. One of the major hurdles that has been at the forefront of autistics in the times of pandemic is the fact that many are losing skills and regressing to some degree. I too have been a victim of regression and while I seem to have some days where it can be really challenging, I know that there are better days ahead.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/20/reflections-easy-to-regress/
In last week’s adulting blog, I shared my experience when accepting a change to one’s routine. However in this day in age, I for one am learning that I need to be flexible by being open to changes in my routine.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/19/adulting-flexibility/
In this podcast, I share my story of falling down on my luck, boucing back and growing that was compounded by the COVID-19 Pandemic and why I now realize that I was not and still not alone in the issue of regression among the autistic community.
Originally uploaded to YouTube https://youtu.be/q6ujgq2b4vs
One of the traits of being autistic for one to adhere to rules, orders, etc. For me in my over four years of independence, it has been a contentious point to not understand standard norms, however, I am realizing the necessity of doing what is necessary because they are meant for a reason.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/15/a-rule-follower/
Excuses, Excuses, I know they help, yet I choose not to take part, What are they? Things for me ! I know that they help me, but I also know that when I choose not to do them that my life takes a downhill turn. I am realizing the importance of why things must be done in order to life the best life that I can and not get into that deep, dark place.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/14/wellness-wednesday-the-importance-of-wellness-activities/
One of the major facets of autism is the fact that many thrive off of routines. Having and following a routine can also provide a sense of comfort and wellness for getting through the day and staying well. Not adhering to the said routine can cause challenges for autistics and those around them.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/13/reflections-the-importance-of-a-routine/
For many autistics, being able to accept changes can be difficult for some to tolerate. Many may react in a negative manner or they may obsess over it and try to come up with other scenarios of why it doesn’t need to change or have a solution that meets their needs. However, it must be understood that change sometimes has to be accepted even though it may be difficult.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/12/adulting-accepting-changes/
In this video,. I share my thoughts and experiences of how happiness, change and anger cohabitate within the autistic mind and what I am learning what works for me as I am in the journey of discovery.
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Last week, I had the opportunity to reflect on the last 2-3 years and how much of a roller coaster it has been, yet there have been several blessings that have saved me into being in the better spot that I am today.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/08/being-a-better-person/
In this current phase of self-discovery I am seriously beginning to close the door on the battles that I am discovering were within my headspace. I now chose to discontinue the battle that I was choosing to fight for nearly four years and take what I need to do seriously.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/07/wellness-wednesday-the-battle-within/
NOTE: This is the second-half of a two part series on my recent discovery of Autistic Burnout. In yesterday’s Adulting post, I discovered some of the signs and what to do in order to practice restorative care for myself. Today, I share what I discovered as the best practices for me in order to restore my energy following periods of burnout.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/06/reflections-restoring-autistic-burnout/
As this post is published on a holiday such as Labor Day (in the US), I would like to share a little more on how I have recently discovered that I recently met my terms with Autistic Burnout and that I accepted the need to better take care of myself.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/05/adulting-accepting-autistic-burnout/
In this video, I share my transformation from being cold and callus to caring and compassionate.
Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ab37JBCQFuE
One of the biggest challenges I have experienced in my life that I am still overcoming is my anxiety. It is a common comorbidity with autism and as such can produce many challenges in the daily lives of the autistic person, and as such I am no casualty in this regard.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/09/01/overcoming-anxiety/
The past month has been very good for me in the fact of being well. I am losing weight very consistently and as such I am setting goals for intervals so I can be accountable for myself in between the times I meet the accountability of the weekly weigh-in. Doing so has proven well and as such gives me the drive to keep the journey up and moving forward.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/31/wellness-wednesday-goal-driven/
A few weeks ago, I made the opportunity to do some of the things before things changed drastically in my life in 2020. It felt good in a way, but I do know that I need to continue to work on things and get back to where they should be from years ago,
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/30/reflections-regognizing-a-return/
Being an autistic adult and knowing that after you try something and realizing that you are not ready to make that change on a consistent basis is something that can be hard to digest. It makes you feel guilty because you are being selfish, but then seeing all the things that happened over the past few years and even in the past few weeks makes me realize that it is Ok to accept that everything doesn’t go exactly to plan or fall back into place.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/29/adulting-knowing-youre-not-ready-yet/
In this video I share my experience of discovering autistic burout, the generalization of it and how I plan to recharge from it based on the knowledge I gained various various autistic YouTubers.
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/m6um4suEgUU
For most of the 33 years of my life, I lived under my parents’ roof. As such I was often coddled because of my challenges in life. Oftentimes I followed suit in their choices they made for me. Now in my fourth year of independence, I am learning that I have to think and decide for myself what is necessary for me in my life, because I am the one that has to live with the choices I make.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/25/deciding-for-yourself/
Last week, I had the opportunity to begin monthly consultations with a nutritionist through a collaboration between my day program and the local community action concern. It was an insightful meeting where I learned to make better changes to improve my health.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/24/wellness-wednesday-better-changes/
Last week, being in almost a month of a near pre-pandemic workflow, I recognized that I needed to practice some self-care and take a “mental health day.” Many said how proud they were for me recognizing the need to do so, and as such I treated it as taking care of myself.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/23/reflections-recognizing-my-needs/
In the past week, I have been experiencing challenging thoughts. Not only are they in my headspace, but I also, when in private, script them. This can set the tone for the outlook that I have on my life and as such can bring down my self-esteem greatly.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/22/adulting-challenging-thoughts/
Continuing the journey of self-discovery and realizng the need to appreciate the things in the here and now and not to give up doing what is in the present moment,.
Sometimes, it takes the simplest of things to have a positive attitude. For the longest time in recent years, I had a very negative outlook on my life, what it pertained and my future. Being in a better place, hopefully for a long time, has made my life much more desirable to enjoy!
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/18/a-better-mindset/
As I am continuing down my personal wellness journey, I am experiencing new and exciting changes to the lifestyle that can have an additional benefit to my overall health as a result of switching or swapping things out in the process of general consumption of nourishment that has been proven successful in the long run of having the outcome I desire as I progress in my journey.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/17/wellness-wednesday-making-swaps/
Being autistic, it can be hard to accept when changes occur to our daily routine that we may not see beneficial. But when you add in further change that can happen in short notice and not know how your day is going to go, it can be difficult to manage your demeanor and not react to the change because it is different. I apparently have been doing better in this regard and it proves that some small changes that I have implemented on my own have helped in this regard.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/16/reflections-managing-lifes-challenges/
The past week has been a better week for me , but to get through it required practicing radical acceptance in order to not back down into my immature behaviors that I have done previously. This skill can be a challenge to adult and face the music of the things that we don’t want to do.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/15/adulting-radical-acceptance/
Sharing some examples and causes of social communication, a common factor and uncommon skill of the autistic community
Originally Uploaded to YouTube:
Last week, I did not realize that four years ago, I got the keys to my first apartment. While I had to move to a new home later on. My personal Independence is something that I am grateful for every morning when my feet hit the floor because after having to get back on my feet, I seen how lucky I am to be independent.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/11/four-years-of-independence/
Another week in the books and another opportunity to measure the progress I have been making in over a week by incorporating more changes to my regimens. They are creating change and I could not be happier of the progress I am making as a result of making simple changes and creating new habits.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/10/wellness-wednesday-progress-works/
Over the past few weeks, I have been resuming what was in most ways the routine that I had pre-pandemic. While many things have changed since then, there are still many things in a brick and mortar form that are still there and I have now realized how much the pandemic had set me back and what I needed to do to build myself back up to where I left off over two and a half years ago.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/09/reflections-pre-pandemic-routine/
So, this past week as I navigate the world, I am beginning to realize that I may have different preferences than those close to me and I am realizing that I have the right to have the choices that I have to do the things in life that I want as long as they do not cause an hindrance to anyone. As such, I realize how much my thinking has been skewed by the way I thought I had to follow the choices of those close to me.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/08/adulting-personal-preferences/
Showcasing some rights of personal choices that Autistic Adults often overlook or do not have the opportunity to choose on their own becasue they do not have the opportunity to leave beyond what they know.
As I was thinking of something to write for my weekly feature post this week, I contemplated greatly and went back and forth on several ideas for a post for the week ahead as I usually write on the weekend before. Being a great week overall, I decided to write about just that.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/04/heading-in-the-right-direction/
Last week I went to the doctor for my six month checkup. I have been aware of some things that have been needing improvement in recent weeks and have been taking little initiatives to make improvements for that to occur. Seeing the improvements actually be seen gives me the stamina to keep doing what I am doing and not revert back to old habits.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/03/wellness-wednesday-a-better-bill-of-health/
Recently, I have realized that there are things I am slowly becoming more aware of that affect my senses. Knowing this, I have to use the proper defenses to best protect myself from reacting in a negative manner that can cause unwanted attention or behavior and produce consequences that I will deeply regret.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/02/reflections-awareness-of-the-world/
Anymore, at least in my world anyway, it has been imperative to be vigilant of my personal safety when out and about in public, as it should be of anyone. However, for many autistic people, this can be a struggle to have understood and know one’s boundaries when it comes to your own safety.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/08/01/adulting-personal-safety/
In this video, I discuss my pattern of ruminating thoughts and what I (sometimes) do to help allievate them.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube at https://youtu.be/yEkxT_tZDfc
32 years ago in the United States, then-President George W. Bush signed into law the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) to protect those with disabilities from discrimination. While many think being disabled has to be visible to the naked eye, it most certainly does not and while it can be easy to pass judgment when not being able to easily see the disability, it proves that we don’t have to know the specific disability but must honor the request that is being made.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/28/disability-pride-is-not-entitlement/
Last week, I realized that I was not equipped mentally to endure the challenges that I needed to face within a certain environment. It can be hard to take a step back and take care of myself, but recently, I have accepted needing to do so in order to protect myself and others from myself experiencing adverse actions that could affect everyone in the end.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/27/wellness-wednesday-accepting-the-need-to-take-care-of-myself/
One of the traits of my being autistic is being socially awkward. While I have come a long way in understanding the social nuances of the world, there’s times of connecting with others that has caused a regression of wanting to extend myself out again with the feeling of being hurt or rejected for who I am, although in many cases, I am assured that is not the case and I am accepted for who I am.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/26/reflections-pushing-myself-away-from-social-connection/
Recently, I have been mostly in a bad spot. I have realized that I have spun into this pattern of self-sabotage of not wanting to reach out to those that reach out to me for friendship and support. I live in fear of many actions that I have experienced in past experiences and relationships that came mostly from toxic people, although not all people are that way, I automatically jump to that theory because of having many toxic relationships and having skewed thoughts.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/25/adulting-self-sabotage/
In this video, I discuss the realtionship of time in autistics, especially in routine and other related isses that involve time.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/kZyKhj55xR4
Our mind can be our own worst enemy. For me, I have experienced decades of being told what I did wrong and the bad things I was, this in turn has lowered my self-esteem greatly, yet I am working on turning my thought patterns around.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/21/my-constant-journey-with-self-esteem-and-negative-thoughts/
For many years, I thought of meditation as a waste or one of those things for hippies or old people. I was taught grounding and relaxing techniques near when I hit rock bottom over two years ago. I am now realizing the benefits of these things and incorporating them into my daily life and how much better they make me feel in my life and my ability to conquer things.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/20/wellness-wednesday-meditation-grounding-and-relaxing/
Having to manage the complexities of that and other situations in the course of the past near four years has caused additional trauma and regression that is taking time to repair.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/19/reflections-pandemic-regressions-and-related-trauma/
As I continue down the road of self-discovery and growth, I am discovering that many of the factors that make my life unpleasant are the result of overthinking and overreacting. While I am working on combating the issues, it makes everyday life for me difficult, but I am strong.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/18/adulting-overthinking-and-overreacting/
In this video, I discuss my anxiety as how catastophic thinking and overreacting to situatuions can further amplify feelings of anger, frustration and sadness along with the being fueled by the reactions of others.
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/sKQQGTZ03LE
In recent weeks, I have been accepting the need for free time where I am not engaged in an object or item at hand. For most of my life, until I chose not to have Cable TV in my own home at 35, when it has been all I know, I am realizing that I can choose and limit the content I watch in order to keep me entertained and not so much engaged in something.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/14/what-everyone-else-does/
In life, it is important to stick to certain things in order for them to work and make you well. I am beginning to learn why it is more than ever important to stick with your medication regimen. While it may not be for some, I know I have the perfect cocktail in order to maintain optimal wellness.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/13/wellness-wednesday-sticking-to-it/
Over the years, I have been reading more about Autistic Burnout and exactly what it is. I think that I have always experienced it, but never understood it, nor have I accepted the fact that it is OK to not be constantly engaged in something, whether it be a special interest or something that I like to do that isn’t an interest. I am starting to learn finally that autisicic burnout is something that comes with the autism diagnosis and that accepting it will put my mind more at ease and I will be able to function better in life.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/12/reflections-autistic-burnout-free-time/
If you have been following my blog since the early beginnings of routine writings last year, I spoke early about autonomy. At that time, I had heard that from an advocate on Facebook and I thought what it meant, but last week, I am starting to really feel what I want it to mean.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/11/adulting-autonomy-a-year-later/
In this video, I define Autistic Burnout, what it is, how I accepted it as part of the diagnisis along with what I do routinely to prevent it from occuring.
Originally Uplaoded to YouTube @ https://youtu.be/UwyE-5ziI1s
Sources:
- Understanding Autistic Burnout (National Autistic Society, U.K.)
- ANTIDOTES TO AUTISTIC BURNOUT (Organization for Autistic Research)
Review of New Headset
Since being in the new environment over a year and a half ago after being absent from the community that I love for several months, I keep putting off in many cases many of the things that I once did for my personal freedom. It continues to be a conversation in the course of my weekly treatment and as things continue to advance, I keep deflecting from the real initiative of just getting out and doing the things that I love.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/07/out-of-the-comfort-zone/
Over the course of the past few weeks, my mood has been anything but stable. I am now hopefully under the understanding that there is a reason that I must do things, not because someone is telling me that I need to do them, but in order to be well, it has become paramount for things to be the way that they have to be so that I can manage my mood effectively.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/06/wellness-wednesday-mood-regulation-caffine-and-energy/
Sometimes, we have to accept things for what they are, despite thinking they shouldn’t be that way. Many times we like to be able to control the things and how they happen, however, we are in many cases not in the driver’s seat or the one who has the power to control those decisions. While we may not agree with the decision that is made for us, we must accept it for what it is because we are not in harm’s way or in immediate danger.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/05/reflections-radical-acceptance/
As we approach Independence Day in the United States and not only be thankful for the freedoms to be an independent country, we also sometimes as autistic individuals are held captive on the routines that we thrive on and cannot many times see completing things other than the ways we have known.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/07/04/adulting-prioritizing-tasks-and-routine/
Sharing my dedication and affirmation to committing to my medication regimen, controlling my soda consumption and being more community oriented the second half of the year.
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/fdi6U8gRgZk
For most of my life since being a pre-teen, I have had some involvement with mental health services. Some I have aged out, Some became no longer beneficial and some are expected to be life long or decades in existence. As such, dependance on the professionals providing us these services has to be a fine line of problem-solving that must be completed with what is modeled to us first before we have to go to them with some miniscule complaint that we have.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/30/professional-dependence/
One of the common issues that autistic individuals face is the ability to sleep. I am no casualty of this and for many years have struggled with the ability to procure a good night’s sleep. However, now as an adult I find it imperative that it is essential to do so in order to function through life.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/29/wellness-wednesday-understanding-the-importance-of-sleep/
A few weeks ago, central service lines to a neighboring broadband provider were severed, thus incapacitating broadband and TV services for a majority of the county in which I reside.There have also been instances of power outages in order to upgrade services in some areas in recent weeks. Although I have been mostly spared by these outages, I have begun to think as many autistics are technology dependent for the sole purpose of entertainment and information, it is imperative to have a “back-up” plan should that ever happen.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/28/reflections-when-the-internet-goes-out-what-do-you-do/
In most cases, when you come of age and become an adult, if you are able in the capacity that you are able, it is expected that you explore the possibility of being employed to some extent. However, my mind many times thinks that I don’t need to do that, even though I know that is not the case.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/27/adulting-expected-maturity-and-expectations/
Sharing things that happen to us and throw us metaphorical "curve balls" in where we as autistics have to adapt and struggle greater than our neruotypical peers at handling change and learning to embracing it, and also when we lose sources of entertianment and livlihood. It has to also be an expected part of adulthood that we must understand.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/iN235FtDxi4
Last week, as part of many of my mental health services, I had to undergo my assessment as part of re-establishing goals for the services I receive. In one assessment, one of the questions that frequently appeared was what was identified as ‘natural supports’. Until some years ago, I lacked this in many ways. In fact, it takes courage sometimes as an autistic person to seek out someone to be a natural support and be able to maintain that contact.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/23/the-importance-of-natural-supports/
Inflation has been astounding in recent weeks. Food and Gas prices are soaring and presently there is no end in sight. I can look out my window and see the effects of this happening frequently and as such it can be hard to accept. However, I am thankful for the resources that I am provided to make sure that I am fed and taken care of.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/22/wellness-wednesday-learning-new-eating-practices/
The past week has been full of planning, goal setting and other things that become necessary in the realm of being connected to Mental Health Services. In that process I had two takeaways that I learned last week and one of those was about giving myself some grace, accepting mistakes and learning from them.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/21/reflections-growing-learning-and-grace/
A few weekends ago, I had the opportunity to re-ignite some of the special interests that I had from many years ago, but somehow slipped away from being independent. As I am now in a good spot mentally and need something to engage my mind as I am having increasingly more space time, I am learning that I am once again picking up on more of my special interests that I had minimally been engaging since being independent.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/20/adulting-special-interests-and-limits/
Sharing my recent struggles to try to keep a positive attitude despite my brain telling me not to.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/CpBhZUfe3pM
Last week, I had some days at home and towards the end of the extended time at home. While being independent has its benefits and can be a great thing, a huge concept of what must be maintained, at least in myself, is the ability to not mentlly isolate and not want to do anything.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/16/preventing-mental-isolating/
Well again, I am met with another accountability point. Two months ago I was given firm medical advice to get my weight under control as there were alot of factors related to my obesity that were not favorable. I was pleased to hear that I made good progress, but the journey is not over.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/15/wellness-wednesday-small-strides-small-progress/
Last weekend, I had the opportunity of turning another year older. While I have had a great amount of personal growth within the past year or so, I have to accept that there are some things that aren’t going to change, no matter how much I want them to. I must accept them for what they are and not have a guilt trip about them and cause my mental health to decline.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/14/reflections-another-year-older-doesnt-change-anything/
As I enter summer, the prevalence of more activity is more abund. As the rest of the world seems as things were three summers ago, for my autistic mind, it just isn’t that way.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/13/adulting-event-anxiety/
Reaching the 200th (Approximately) vlog that I have recorded in nearly two years. With some things returning back to their nornal expectancy, I have begun to think as to whether or not to reduce my weekly vlog recording in half.
Autism is a struggle, there is no denial of that. When an autistic person such as myself has to navigate through the motions in a world that isn’t necessarily designed for us, we can be severely affected as a result of many actions that we may not be able to control. However, for me, I had to understand what works and actually put it to use so I can manage the life I must endure.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/09/understanding-what-works/
I come to you on another Wednesday, in a much better state than the last few. It has taken me a while to recoup from what is hopefully the last of an almost four year relapse that I have been experiencing that I had finally had an epiphany a few weeks ago.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/08/wellness-wednesday-understanding-the-need-to-care-for-yourself/
Recently, I experienced a challenging outing with my mother. In having that experience, I learned from her that we need to cherish the memories we can have while we are still able to have them before we can no longer experience them.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/07/reflections-cherish-the-memories/
As I am maturing in life, I am learning that life can’t be all about what I want and that there are others, including those that help me do things that I need to consider their needs and feelings and not be as self-centered on my own personal needs and intentions as that can seem selfish.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/06/adulting-learning-to-consider-others/
I share my relationship with music and how it saves me from challenging or triggering situations.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube https://youtu.be/NPdgmoaT7Cw
Sharing my personal experience with handling and understanding that change is a part of life that we sometimes must undergo and is beyond our control.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/6fUkCxzK4oo
One thing I have been told about the world we live in is that everything changes. What I also have to learn is the fact that I need to be patient and things will work out in one way or another if I let it do its magic.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/02/being-patient-and-blessed/
Sometimes in life, we have to see the harsh reality of ourselves and see just what we are or are not doing to ourselves and our bodies. While we honestly know what we are doing just isn’t the right thing and we have the opportunity to repair the damage, we don’t and we pay dearly for what we must go through.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/06/01/wellness-wednesday-the-man-in-the-mirror/
Many times growing up when experiencing life with my parents and seeing their faults or things they would do that I would react in a way that was not the proper way, they would often say “It will happen to you.” While many of those things haven’t happened to me yet, I am still realizing that my parents are not the same as they were when I was younger and they are getting older.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/31/reflections-the-hard-truth/
With independence comes freedom. It can sometimes spiral out of control. However, you must realize that there are things that you must keep in your life even as you become independent because they are necessary for maintaining daily wellness.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/30/adulting-accepting-whats-necessary-to-be-independent/
In this vlog, I share my experience with catastrophizing, the story behind it and how if I learn to be paitent there will always be a way for things to work out.
Orignally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/nbiw76dF6Qg
In this vlog, I explain what has taken me a long time to learn what being selfish does to others.
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/EVVSUY-T0a4
Sometimes in life there are things that happen that are beyond our control and have to make adaptations to. For many autistics this isn’t easy to handle sometimes and can bring added stress that if not brought under control can cause one to react adversely, but if we do what is necessary and make the hard adaptations that we need to do in order to get through life it won’t be that bad.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/26/hard-adaptations/
As the lifestyle change continues and improvements continue to be made. I am beginning to realize that things that I would have never tolerated as late as just five weeks ago are now being accepted more than ever and that as a result these are things due to my behavior that have been suggested for decades and despite the advice of many, am not aligning with the advice that they have long been saying.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/25/wellness-wednesday-being-more-real/
In a world where many are experiencing COVID fatigue as we are in the third year of it, many don’t want to hear about it. In reality, because of the early unknowns and the preventative actions of government leaders as they are, they were only trying what was best with what little information they had at their disposal at the time, and were only trying to make sound decisions to protect us at the time.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/24/reflections-effects-that-covid-has-caused/
In adulthood, when we finally obtain our independence, we often want more, but sometimes that path to independence could have bumps and as a result we may need to realize that we need to work on some current needs before reaching for more dreams.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/23/adulting-slowing-the-pace/
No matter who you are, it is essential to take care of yourself when going through the motions of life, however, many experiencing challenges may acquire roadblocks in being able to know to do this.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/Your2JLqbVA
Being neurodivergent and experiencing what is known as autistic bunout can be oftemtimes percieved as being "lazy." Being Aware of this is crucial in how we as autistics react based on how we are accepted.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/V0-JHB0U5e8
In my social media posts, I have been one often to stress the importance of self-care. However, I did not truly practice self-care to the fullest potential. Last week, I was able to take the day to put my worries aside and focus on taking care of myself for a change.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/19/being-serious-about-self-care/
Recently, because of the efforts I have put forth in working towards losing weight to being healthier, I am beginning to see some Non-Scale Victories (NSVs). Non-scale victories, also known as NSVs, are health improvements that result from small life changes. They may go unnoticed if you're only focused on the scale as a measure of your success. A bathroom scale shows a number — a snapshot of your weight at a given moment on a given day.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/18/wellness-wednesday-appreciating-non-scale-victories/
In continuing this week’s blog of Independence-Dependence, I had several examples of why it is important to be thankful for the ability to live independently and have a place to call home. After losing my first home, I now realize how close I was to losing the opportunity of ever being independent for a long time.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/17/reflections-grateful-for-independence/
Being independent, yet not having total freedom to go the places you truly want to go can be rough to manage. Having to wait and rely on the help or services of others can make you feel like your independence is severed and dependent on whatever is available to you. While I am working on lessening this need, I must not give up while working towards that ultimate goal.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/16/adulting-the-struggles-of-dependence-of-independence/
As time progresses in the autistic journey, do you see yourself living as you are still a child? Maybe it is to make a change!
Also Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/JNBkC6gYHCA
In this video I explain the process of my first "true" self-care day and how I am realizing that I need more of them currently due to additional burnout both of the general and autstic types.
Also Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/_sp-hdPgNnw
As I have discussed over time, being independent comes with responsibilities. Many of the responsibilities are just that, a responsibility. However autistics that are independent, myself included struggle with understanding many of the norms that many expect of us. Because many times this is not instilled as a norm in the years prior to being independent, it can continue to be a struggle to realize the need to perform what can be mundane or silly gestures as a way that others expect us.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/12/understanding-norms-during-independence/
When embarking on a weight loss journey as I have been attempting for about two decades, I have discovered that there has to be that moment that the desire to lose weight has to “click” within your thought process in order to get the process moving and engaged toward progress. Within myself, the switch has clicked to the need and desire to take the fact that I need to lose weight seriously.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/11/wellness-wednesday-it-has-to-click/
As I have had some time to ponder my own thoughts recently, I began to realize how much I have matured socially over the years and how people realize that I can actually be someone who can carry a conversation for a long time and my ability to mask as a neurotypical when necessary.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/10/reflections-changes-in-growth/
As I continue to work on my overall wellness, I am beginning to realize that I am beginning to develop my own sense of assurance and maturity as far as being more comfortable making decisions on my own and not relying as much on the guidance of those I have sought for so long to base my decision for me. I am also realizing that despite the opinions of others, I am the one that has to be satisfied with making that decision.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/09/adulting-increasing-maturity-and-independence/
In this video, I explain how autistics can struggke with understanding and processing the societal norms that can seem mundane to the autistic mindset. I explain the importance of gaining the knowledge and by me completing some of these gestures, the benefits it can provide fotr the reciever of the gestures that I gave.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/5HAkPJY4qyk
Sharing the Challenges, Struggles and Beneftis of someone who relies on others for their routine to developing your own personal routine and doing the things that you want to do in your own life and the struggles that It can be on the ones that support us, but realizing that we have to do what is in our hearts.
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/w3qxMadmzCc
Sometimes we don’t think before saying something. I have been guilty of doing so time and time again. Yet, I say statements that are many times simply not true, but are used as a way of wanting attention. Some of these statements can be very harming or hurtful to others and while they are meant, sometimes they cannot be retracted.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/05/understanding-my-words/
The wellness journey continues. Wellness in general is never ending and is the catalyst in making sure that your body is functioning properly. Sometimes you need to work on things to improve your ability to see more progress. Over the past week or so, I have been striving to expand many things into my overall wellness regimen.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/04/wellness-wednesday-expanding-my-opportunities/
Many times, those who do not know my whole life story approach me and say “you are such a positive person.” I acknowledge that but in reality, fighting the ability to remain positive can indeed be very challenging for me.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/03/adulting-navigating-negativity/
When someone who experiences challenges decides to “leave the nest” of the home of their family and start a journey of independence, one need that should be addressed is how the person will fill the void of their free time.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/05/02/adulting-filling-the-void/
Reflecting on Week 2 of my current wellness journey. Last week, I began implementing implementing more foods into my food palate along with contuinuing the soda tapering process and starting diet sodas only this past week.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/jzqV8M2iZPw
Explaining some ways autistic indiduals process their emotions as it relates to death and dying, which can be very atypical.
Last week near this time, the event, the first ever held by our county behavioral health office in correlation of Autism Awareness Month for our county and as an individual involved in many facets of the behavioral health office was on the committee for the event.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/28/first-responder-awareness/
Recently, I have begun to see the importance of all facets of wellness as it relates to me and my journey that I am on. I am realizing that it takes all facets to work in harmony to be well and the result will provide me the best experiences and opportunities possible
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/27/wellness-wednesday-the-importance-of-accountability/
As human beings we are often creatures of habit. We cannot often see beyond what we know. Change is often reluctant, being autistic further hinders it. But what if there is a chance to grow and change for the better. We have to sometimes have to lessen our dependence on the things that hold us together because we know it works, there’s a time we have to look beyond what works.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/26/reflections-we-change-and-grow/
Sometimes after we grow, we begin to learn. We begin to feel confident about making sound choices and becoming less dependent on relying on others to accept or oblige by our choices. After all, as long as our mentality is stable, we are adults, so we should be able to choose what we want to do without having to rely on the approval of others.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/25/adulting-choices-as-you-grow/
Sharing my recent stint of medication regimen compliance, the importance of doing so while also focusing on weight loss, sleep and exercise thus keeping everything in harmony and balance.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/vB1l2LKICqE
Explaining my current Soda Tapering Process that I am doing in order to curb my excessive Soda Addiction along with being accountable for other facets of my food and drink intake.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube at https://youtu.be/iit073G0Z4g
So, you may have wondered in the course of the past week, you may have noticed that I have written a lot about wellness? You may be wondering, what does that have to do with being autistic. My answer to you is, it has a lot to do with being around longer and living the best life you can.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/21/so-why-all-about-wellness/
I, like many, want to be well, regardless of years. I had a hard time accepting what I needed to work on and defending my harmful habits because I didn’t want to face the truthy and accept that I needed to make a lifestyle change because it isn’t easy.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/20/wellness-wednesday-it-has-to-be-for-me/
Keeping on track with yesterday’s blog of accepting Reality, what often follows up is a cause to react when confronted of our realities that we immediately defend ourselves with why we do things the way we do or the picture we paint of what we want others to believe is the truth, but we are only kicking the truth further down the road and not accepting that we need to work on ourselves.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/19/reflections-defending-the-truth/
Accepting the reality of where you are in life and what you need to work on can sting worse than a bee. I know they are unhealthy for me and that they need to be improved, yet I continue down the same path because I don’t want to accept the reality of needing to do something because it is healthier for me.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/18/adulting-accepting-the-reality/
Sharing my experiences of how the holidays have been changed over the years particurarly since the onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic including remembering the early times two years ago.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/4ORvDxvHcK8
Explaining my week of expereincing moments where behaviors related to physical wellness was called out to me, the reactions it causes, the realizations and steps I need to take of acceptint the need to improve myself for the better.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/D8LI8zsn5Tw
Over the past weeks when being out and about, I have had to learn that regardless what someone ha cause me or what I personally feel about them, I musnt treat them differently because of that, I have to remember that they are just a person as much as I am and it doesn’t cost anything for me to be nice to them.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/14/it-doesnt-cost-anything-to-be-nice/
This past week, I have been realizing the need to be wise and mindful of what I am consuming both in the form of beverages and food. I am losing weight and moving more during the course of the week and it has been better as well.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/13/wellness-wednesday-being-wise/
For the month of April and Autism Awareness / Acceptance Month, I have been writing on how the acceptance of the autistic community has increased in the 23 years since I received my diagnosis under the autism spectrum. This past week, I learned that even more acceptance has been seen, but yet we still have a ways to go.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/12/reflections-accepting-autism/
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/11/adulting-accepting-the-consequences-of-your-behaviors/
Giving a Wellness Update for April 2022
Oriiginally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/0290pZzCCCs
Discussing overall overload caused by doing activities in environments that ae not made sensory friendly or adapted for autistics
Originally Uploaded to YouTube at: https://youtu.be/BlffIVOl-Dk
Sometimes, living in the present moment where my life is constantly evolving it can be hard to realize how far I have come since getting my diagnosis 23 years ago. Sometimes it takes until you have a reminder of someone who has helped you get through the worst of times and only do what they knew what they could to try to help get through the day.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/07/ive-come-a-long-way/
Life is challenging. For me being autstic, managing all of the challenges life brings particularly in being well and independent are especially challenging for me at times. It can be hard to fight the challenges that I presented with internally and externally and still keep it together despite a world that I am just not wired for.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/06/wellness-wednesday-doing-whats-important/
Following up with yesterday’s blog where I learned that we must be in a dynamic at times that we may not want to be in. We must also understand that we cannot be in a rush to get where we want to go either. Whatever place we are in our lives, we must take advantage of what it has to offer and while at times it may seem challenging or we may want to regress to something unhealthy, we must persevere in the present moment while using the tools in our toolbox.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/05/reflections-things-take-time/
Part of maturing and adulting as you become independent is learning when you cannot feed into something because it isn’t beneficial for you to do so. Learning that you have to be the mature one in the situation regardless of how others react to things shows how much I have grown. Also recognizing those changes within myself makes me see where the world can take me.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/04/04/adulting-understanding-and-growing/
Sharing two writings on World Autism Day for Autism Awareness / Acceptance Month; One on the Stand of the month and the other is a poem called "I have Autism."
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/m0nFyX781Gs
In honor of the 180th Vlog and World Autism Day & Autism Awareness / Acceptance Month. I have decided to share my story to this point.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/oztSO-gxXWY
I am often told by those that support me in my journey to “give myself some grace.” For the longest time I continually bush it off mostly because I often think that I am no different when going through my journey.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/31/giving-myself-some-grace/
Recently, I have been dealing with accepting my body image and being proud of it. It can be hard for a person of my size to be proud of my body when I know it needs a lot of work that is truly my responsibility to work to make improvements to it. However, being such, it can be difficult to accept compliments from others on my appearance because I do not believe that I am worthy of it.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/30/wellness-wednesday-dealing-with-body-image-and-self-worth/
Recently, my parents were cleaning their house and brought to me some of my possessions. Some of these were some elementary school yearbooks that I had. Taking a look into one of them brought to light some discoveries about things that happened at the time, both good and bad that made me realize that I have been destined to be on the journey that I am on.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/29/reflections-what-i-didnt-know-then/
I continue to live the way I live in life because what I really want in life is held up by a huge wall of fear. Fear of what? Something not going the way it is supposed to be? Fear I cannot do it? Fear of doing something that you’ve never done or leaving the only thing you've known all your life? It’s all fearful. I won’t lie.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/28/adulting-only-held-back-by-fear/
In this vlog, I explain how something that happened to me 23 years ago went hardly recognized when if that happened in the present moment it would have been brought out publicly in some form. Additionally, I explain the need for autistics and others with similar challenges to be cognizant of how they react public to avoid bringing unwanted attention to themselves as a result of their actions.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/JJsjB__5_yA
In this vlog, I explain how some media outlets exaggerate the truth with hype which in turn can cause autistics and others with similar challenges additional stress. I also demonstrate an example of how an incident can be hyped or not given its true merit.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/Tc-27r8XuUw
Being autistic provides a skewed frame of mind. What may seem like something that is only experienced by the autistic mind may not be understood that what is being felt by an autistic person is also felt by neurotypicals as well.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/24/what-feeligns-are-typical/
The last week has been very fruitful on the wellness front. With a combination of my internal fear of COVID diminishing along with spring coming in the last week, factors have provided for being not only more active physically, but more involved in my community as well.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/23/wellness-wednesday-keeping-the-push/
In recent years, there has been much divide between self-advocates and family members of autistics about the advocating for all autistics. Sometimes when either side is advocating for things that they are passionate about, it must be understood that it is their experience and that everyone experiences things differently as autism is indeed a spectrum disorder.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/22/reflections-why-all-voices-are-important-in-advocacy/
Recently, somebody asked me, does autism cause anger? I seriously had to choose my words wisely because while autism is a neurological condition, certain environmental factors can be the cause of an autistic person experiencing anger if they do not have the tools in their toolbox to properly manage their emotions at that moment.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/21/adulting-autism-and-anger/
Last week I had the opportunity to visit the Commissioners Meeting in My County to aid in bringing Autism Awareness Month to my county. I also explained briefly the fact that autism is a spectrum disorder and the fact that I was able to stand in front of the Commissioners and do the things that I can do is no small feat. I was also joined by one of my coworkers who has a son with autism. Just as valuable as I am for standing up for Autism Awareness Month so is she from the side of a family member as I feel the family voice is equally as important. While April is just 2 weeks away, it is no less important than this recognition is important.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/19/i-helped-proclaim-autism-awareness-month/
I was recently asked, "Do Autistic People get Angry?" In this video, I explain six common reasons that cause autistics to spiral into anger along with other reasons someone that is autistic may get angry?
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZecS_MHt_6Q
Sometimes as autistics we think about things irrationally without realizing that our neurotypical peers think similar thoughts as their autistic peers. In this vlog, I explain the similarites and differences in this process of thought.
Originally Uploaded to: https://youtu.be/ZecS_MHt_6Q
Being neurodiverse and experiencing multiple mental health challenges can present problems when you are out in a world that just isn’t made for us. Although it is often said that being autistic has no look, sometimes when you face challenges that are presented when you are out in the community or because you have special needs, many times judgment is passed and you can feel it However, you have to be the better one in the situation and be kind because if you are not, it can backfire quickly.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/17/community-stigma/
Getting healthy and losing weight can be a struggle. Getting started is the hardest thing about taking initiative to make a change to do something about it. It isn’t the easiest or most wanted thing to do, but knowing that it will improve yourself and provide a sense of accomplishment is worth everything in the end.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/16/wellness-wednesday-goal-bound/
As part of experience, a recent journey of self-discovery and acceptance has made me realize the fact that I can only have the physical and mental capability to only withstand so much. I have begun to accept the fact that at times we cannot do what we intend or want to do and while being independent comes with a sense of responsibility, we must learn to properly balance our lives in order to maintain optimum wellness both mentally and physically.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/15/reflections-realizing-capacity/
Being independent comes with a sense of freedom, From how we choose to decorate, buy, wear, our routines, our interactions, our involvement and so much more. What also comes with freedom is an equal amount of responsibility to carry out that freedom. In order to maintain optimum independence, both must be maintained sensibly.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/14/adulting-sense-of-freedom/
Sharing a Wellness Update with 5 Weeks until Easter and a Possible 5K
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/dIxn-5nKlC8
I explain the benefits and importance of being a part of the community in which I reside.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/wKfAxbRDcgk
Today has been 12 years since I walked into the office of my employer. All I knew at that time is that I had a job and who my direct supervisor was. I had no idea what the job exactly involved or what I was exactly doing. What I did know was that it was an opportunity that has evolved into being more educated about mental health and advocacy. It is a job that even to this day I still love .
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/10/12-year-work-anniversary/
The past week in the Wellness realm has been more focused on making small changes and realizing that those matter than the number on the scale. While seeing numbers on the scale drop, it is equally as important to begin to make small changes so that we are not hit hard on in the future.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/09/wellness-wednesday-slow-progress-is-best/
Over the past weekend, we had some nice weather enter Western Pennsylvania and as a result I had the opportunity to get back out of the house. The last time I sort of got to enjoy that was exactly two year ago when things began to hit the breaking point for me. After two years of some sort of a journey of discovery and rebirth, I have become a much better person and seem to be at the point that I honestly need to be at.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/08/reflections-back-on-track/
As the COVID-19 Pandemic begins to wane and winter weather starts to subside, I am beginning to retrace my steps back to where I left off a little over two months ago. Now being more grounded and having more skills in my toolbox, I feel that I can champion the next goal I have and that is being part of the community I live in.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/07/adulting-community/
Rambling on some thoughs as I am continuing down this journey of self-growth about the various challenges I face.
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/3qmWVTvZivU
Explaining my discovery to adult and realize that we sometimes cannot and don't do everything we want. That we have to take time for ourselves and realzie what is more important.Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/dRIYUjVrdDI
Sometimes in life it is the little things that make the difference. It's the moments that you don’t see the bad in everything and look past everything that seems so bad and causes you to ruminate and want to run away from all the things you know you should be an adult and bear. It can be hard to see past all the things that stress you and know that there are things in life that are worth doing.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/03/life-is-how-you-make-it/
As we enter the third month of 2022 with intentions of being healthier as I was a few weeks ago, reluctantly I continue to self-sabotage my work with faults that are unhealthy, yet I want to pass the blame to others as a casualty as to why I fall “off” the wagon. I must learn that I need to take responsibility and accept the choices I make because they are in my court.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/02/wellness-wednesday-the-blame-game/
In spending over three years of this rumspringa of sorts, I think I have finally accepted the fact of what is part of my life and what cannot be changed. I have realized that doing the right thing is not the fact that people that advise it are telling me as a way of revenge,but because they see my best interests at heart. I must continue on the right side of the coin, despite whatever I am thinking the opposite.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/03/01/finally-the-right-side-of-the-coin/
Last week was a very challenging week. Yet, part of my personal outcome was the result of my need to become an adult and realize my need to mature. As much as I have learned in this recent journey, I am still at times reluctant to grow up and do the things I need to do to manage the days ahead.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/28/adulting-maturing-and-growing/
Sharing my recent struggles during my journey of self-discovery and the need to focus on my goals. In this video, I particularly share my need to focus on my wellness goals in 2022.
Orignally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/fw88cS5Hu4M
Sharing my recent struggles during my journey of self-discovery and the need to focus on my goals. In this video, I particularly share my need to focus on some mental health goals.
Originallty uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/pjq3L3E350U
As autistics, it can be hard many times to go with the flow. In a week that has been anything but the norm in many cases, the energy that it can generate can negatively affect downtime by putting us out of commission for some time, thus giving us a skewed outlook of the big picture of how things really are.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/24/go-with-the-flow/
As many know, losing weight has been an ongoing battle for decades. I know that I love my body for what it is, but I need to work on losing weight not from a standpoint to impress anyone, but as a means of improving my health. I am the only one that I will be doing it for which means that I am the only one behind the change.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/23/wellness-wednesday-why-i-need-to-care/
Recently, some warmer and much more enjoyable weather has been brought upon us in Western Pennsylvania. I am setting a personal goal that in 2022, I am going to make a better attempt to leave my home more and come off the regression that COVID has brought on me because of instilled fear of the virus.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/22/concentrating-on-covid-sign-of-brightness/
As I continue down the journey of my personal self-discovery. One of the things that has helped me refrain myself from the process is the ability to make connections with others with similar challenges so the world that I was living in didn’t seem so small although it was physically, it made me be more of a friend that I ever have been.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/21/adulting-communication/
Discussing at length my recent advancing in progress after ending a three year rumspringa of sorts and moving on from things that were negatively affecting my life, what the outcome has been, and what I'm looking forward to in the future.
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/lHcw3LorgAc
Discussing at length about stigma that people face, how people to quick to judge and associate others with similar challenges that they are same when it is quite the contrary. Additionally discussed is the variations of judgments and stigmas that individuals face and ways that can help prevent further discriminiation:
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/9fMx1a7SCEo
Continuing on this personal growth journey as it ever evolves personally has made me become a well-rounded person in the effects of the many facets that I represent. Part of that has been the ability to accept who I am overall, not just who I want to be, I am learning that I can be who I want to be while understanding and recognizing the need to properly care for myself in the process.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/17/recognition-pays/
Following up with the explanation of my journey of personal growth has made me realize the need to be well along with acceptance, discovery and growth. While I have grown into a man that knows what is acceptable versus what is not acceptable in the public eye, I realize in order to represent myself properly, I must be overall aware of my total wellness in doing so.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/16/wellness-wednesday-making-strides/
Lately, I have been on a journey of acceptance, discovery, and growth. It has been astonishing in the past few months how far I have grown into a man and discovering that what I am feeling and what I need to do to be well is possible and acceptable. I can no longer live in shame about what I have to do to stay well and be who I want to be.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/15/special-a-journey-of-personal-growth/
One of the traits that many think autistics have is the need to be consistent. I can honestly say that this is a complete myth because I am definitely not consistent in many things that I need to do in life. Sometimes it can affect my mental health along with many other environmental factors.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/14/adulting-consistency/
Sharing a question that I was asked this week, "Do You Know How Much You Have Progressed?" In this video, I ponder on those thoughts.
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/5Yjjc_AcBeA
Sharing a question that I was asked this week, "What Is My Dream Job?" In this video, I ponder on those thoughts.
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/eXB5M-3FAC0
Many times when anyone is given a lifelong diagnosis, they or those that care for them think of all the things they will miss out on in life and if they will have the same lives as others. They may want to give up hope and the possibilities or continually live in a sense of doubt or fear. I am here to tell you that while in a minimal sense that I can be there, I can also tell you that if you reach out of your comfort zone.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/10/dont-doubt-the-possibilities/
On Monday, I shared with you my burnout. It got to me and I realized the need to be more on point with my need to reset and recharge sometimes. It also made me realize that I need to be more vigilant with my mental health and while I have thought I had been taking care of myself, I need to do better.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/09/wellness-wednesday-trying-my-best-2/
We are getting closer to the two year mark of when the world here shut down. Case numbers have decreased some and while we cannot put the thought of COVID away just yet, we must continue to be vigilant, however we must now live in a world with COVID instead of a world scared of COVID.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/08/concentrating-on-covid-trying-to-normalize/
Last week was a different week for sure. My schedule was anything but what it normally was. While I can easily adapt, by the end of the week, I had realized how burnout I really was and the need to practice, by fault some much needed self-care. Self-Care is not selfish.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/07/adulting-realizing-burnout/
Discussing the need for self-care, why it is important and the effects of not doing so.
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/yrh9HNgpGJI
Discussing the effects of sudden and abrupt changes in autistics and the struggles that I and others face in the sudden or unknown plans or changes alongside with the mental draining that autistics experiece as a result of these events.
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/H3KMavo0TOY
As much as we want it to be, life doesn’t go exactly as we plan it to be. The world is not a perfect place and life is going to throw wrenches in it. We are going to get frustrated when things don’t go our way or happen the way we don’t think they should. However, that doesn’t mean that the world is over or horrific, you pick up the pieces and move on.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/03/life-isnt-perfect/
So with the winter being the way it has been along with the COVID spikes. I have not had the opportunity to visit my weekly weight loss support group for over seven weeks. Learning that I had a loss of just one pound over that time has energized me to keep going in the journey and rededicate myself to getting real for 2022.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/02/wellness-wednesday-2022-rededication/
It gets better. Those three words are what I can say to anyone that has been struggling with the onset of anything since the world has been in a broken world. I am here to tell you that you can get at your lowest and rebound to a better place, but to do that lies within the powers of yourself. If you are willing to make the change, it can happen.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/02/01/concentrating-on-covid-it-gets-better/
Spending over three years being an independent autistic man, and now being at the point I can finally say that after a three year rumspringa of sorts of playing almost roulette with my wellness, I can finally say that I am in a good place mentally and can see what putting in the fruits of my labor can do my life and the potential of it going forward.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/31/adulting-being-who-you-truly-want-to-be/
Discussing the struggle to sleep for autistics, some of my struggles and successes with sleep and some ideas to better sleep for autistics.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/zEGSTzmSgxk
Welcome to #14 in my Forging Friendships Vlog Series. While I am certainly no expert, being in my mid-thirties, I do have some insight to share about relationships with my community. The intention is to share my insight and knowledge on topics of relationships, whether for dating or as a friend that are common issues that autistics face today.
In this video, I will be sharing the importantce of understanding where the importance of the other person lies in the relationship lies, AKA the Relatioship Barometer
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/m7k7Gx3AIpQ
In an ever-changing world, life presents challenges for everyone. In an autistic world, these challenges can be amplified because in the big scheme of things they are really hard and bigger than what they seem, when in reality they can be a really small roadblock that may require a detour in our journey.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/27/a-different-approach-in-an-ever-changing-world/
I am at a place now where I am more content and can learn from experience. Compared to even a few months ago when you could see small signs by me masking when I wasn’t doing what I needed to do, there has been an improvement and many of my supporters can see a difference.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/26/wellness-wednesday-trying-my-best/
A little fact known about me is the fact that I am a licensed driver. It was something that over three years ago decided to do on a whim. While many autistics cannot fathom the idea of driving an automobile, some cannot, and while I pursued what I thought was unimaginable to do, I did. I haven’t really taken it much further because, like many autistics, it seems scary and hard to do.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/25/adulting-special-drivers-license-3-year-anniversary/
In the two years we have been fighting COVID-19, the first thing, while it can be very hard to autistics is the need to be flexible and adapt to situations that need to be changed, sometimes at a moment’s notice With COVID, this can happen because it is many times out of the control of those that can make the decision for us.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/24/concentrating-on-covid-being-flexible/
As many that are involved in the autism community know, Amazon’s new series As We See It premiered at the end of last week. I feel that it had an effect on me realizing just how lucky I have been over my adult years to have the opportunities presented to me in my life.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/23/adulting-lucky/
Welcome to #13 in my Forging Friendships Vlog Series. While I am certainly no expert, being in my mid-thirties, I do have some insight to share about relationships with my community. The intention is to share my insight and knowledge on topics of relationships, whether for dating or as a friend that are common issues that autistics face today. In this video, I will be sharing the importantce of trust and how to build and keep it.
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/vUUALr86Nao
Discussing the effects of mental health in men, the causes linked to it and the need to normalize mental health treatment for the men who want and need it.
Originally uploaded to Youtube: https://youtu.be/FzU2OyLsIuk
Living with my parents for most of 33 years of my life or being under some sort of supervisory control has always made me feel as if I have to go along with what people say, ask or do. But what if you are given a choice? For me after years of just following the flow, I had to realize that nothing can change without advocating for what YOU want because YOU know what is right.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/20/the-power-of-advocating-for-yourself/
As many know, I had a good start to losing weight in 2022, however it came with a setback this past week into this current week. I am hoping to get back on track as I have a saving grace that will pave the way forward towards me getting to my goals for 2022.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/19/wellness-wednesday-learning-to-savor/
We are nearing the two year point from when the first COVID-19 case was discovered in the United States. Throughout the highs and lows of the pandemic, the effects on the mental health of many has taken a toll across the board from the exhaustion of the looming pandemic that doesn’t seem to have a end in sight.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/18/concentrating-on-covid-the-effects-of-our-mental-health/
Many times people can perceive that we have something “wrong” with us. This is just not for autistics alone, but for many with invisible disabilities and challenges, As disabled individuals, it can tear at us inside when others treat us as less mature than we know we are. We must be the stronger ones in the situation and not react to their signs of immaturity or fear because of their assumptions and fear.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/17/adulting-accepting-presumed-immaturity-by-others/
Welcome to #13 in my Forging Relationships Vlog Series. While I am certainly no expert, being in my mid-thirties, I do have some insight to share about relationships with my community. The intention is to share my insight and knowledge on topics of relationships, whether for dating or as a friend that are common issues that autistics face today. In this video, I will be sharing the ways rejection affects autistic individuals
In this video, I will be sharing the ways rejection affects autistic individuals.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/d3yP-Q6PrvU
Discussing the effects of Mental Health as a result of COVID-19 and some stategies to maintain or improve one's mental health as a result of the looming COVID-19 Pandemic.
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/3wxAS9lV57U
2022 has been an exciting year. I feel in a really good place mentally and seem to be grounded really well in many ways that I haven’t been since my first independence experience. Now that I worked out many of the kinks that I had to discover on my own, it is now time to get real and grow from where I left off over three years ago.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/13/you-cant-get-there-by-staying-here/
As many start off 2022 with a resolution to lose weight, I have that plan too asI have had 2 decades ago when I weighed 100 pounds less than I do now. I know I did alot in 2021 to get a fresh start but I must continue to blend what I have learned with what I know I need to do.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/12/wellness-wednesday-you-can-give-me-all-the-tools-but-i-must-use-them/
As much as we have learned about COVID as the virus has evolved over the near past two years, it also taught me alot about myself. While the world shut down and regenerated itself, it taught me the need to practice actual self-care and that mental health is OK to think about and to invest in more than I had previously.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/11/concentrating-on-covid-what-covid-has-made-me-discover-about-myself/
Being an autistic adult, one may have difficulty understanding that life’s essentials are in fact essentials and require investment before that device or book that may want. Even if we are not living independently, there are essentials we may need in life to function that require us to spend money that we otherwise wouldn’t want to because we may think it is senseless, however it is an essential item and sometimes it is good to do so.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/10/adulting-investing-in-lifes-essentials/
Welcome to #11 in my Forging Relationships Vlog Series. While I am certainly no expert, being in my mid-thirties, I do have some insight to share about relationships with my community. The intention is to share my insight and knowledge on topics of relationships, whether for dating or as a friend that are common issues that autistics face today.
In this video, I will be sharing the ways some is attracted to someone and how it can strayed or skewed for autistic individuals.
Orignially Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/juqZIz5j8tw
Discussing the benefits of Social Media for Autistic Individuals and how it can provide them with a connection to the outisde world.
Orignially Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/8PEpdAZGBdU
One of the key points of being autistic is knowing that we don’t like to change the way we do things. Autistics are very regimented about ourselves and we thrive off routines. And while I made 2022 about doing new things and following new routines so that I can track my progress throughout the year,. I must learn that while doing these things, that I must adapt to the way things are at the present moment.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/06/adapting-to-the-new-environment/
Sugar, Sugar how I love thee should be the theme song to my life. For over a decade battling a sugar addiction has been the forefront of my life. I have heard my fair share over the years of how bad it is, particularly in beverage form mixed with caffeine
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/05/wellness-wednesday-small-changes-to-start-2022/
As I enter 2022, I do so with less worry as I did in 2021. Becoming faithfully grounded and spiritually abundant that I will be OK in a world that is going through some pretty wild stuff right now is a big thing. I am not ignoring that it isn’t there, rather I am living life as I should do, because that is the only way we will get out of the fear mongering state I have been in last year.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/04/concentrating-on-covid-waning-fear-with-sensibility/
When am autistic individual ages there is a great uncertainty as to whether they can be mature. We as human being all have the tendency to play the immaturity card at times and if we have the skills to be mature, it can backfire if we act immature in a setting that we cannot tolerate or get frustrated with.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2022/01/03/adulting-maturity-immaturity/
Sharing some of my three-prongrd New Years' Resolutions in the realms of Spirtual, Mental and Physical for 2022 and some plans for my platforms as well!
Virtual Background courtesy of: Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, Laurel Ridge State Park: https://waterlandlife.org/virtual-backgrounds/
More about Laurel Ridge State Park: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/LaurelRidgeStatePark/Pages/default.aspx
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/N7BEYUY9eYo
Sharing all the things I did in 2021 with some input on what I continue to need to work on and a glimpse of what I know needs revamping.
Virtual Background: Laurel Ridge State Park, courtesy of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy: https://waterlandlife.org/virtual-backgrounds/
About Laurel Ridge State Park: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/LaurelRidgeStatePark/Pages/default.aspx
Originally uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/K_LDDfSDUJ8
This week has been a relaxing week and I am ever thankful for it. I am off work again for a little reprieve for a while due to how my schedule and the holiday observances occur. I only had to miss one day of work to have two weeks off, which was nice. But in the course of this week, one of my mental health workers asked me why continue to be involved in my day program and work?
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/30/why-do-i-keep-on-doing-what-i-keep-on-doing/
As this is the last Wellness Wednesday blog post for 2021, I like to recap the year and be thankful for the year that was given to me and set plans for the year ahead. 2021 has shown me that if I put forth the energy, things can be done. I can do it if I set my mind to do it. While I lost that kindred spirit in the second half of 2021, I am hoping to get it back in 2022.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/29/wellness-wednesday-a-better-plan-in-2022/
For almost two years I have lived in a continual state of fear of doing things outside of my safe space. I have taken each and every precaution that was made available to me. I believed the words of our government leaders. And while I do believe there is some merit to the information that is being delivered to us, I have to live a little and start 2022 by not living in total fear of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/28/concentrating-on-covid-no-more-fear-in-2022/
This Christmas has been one of the better Christmases for me. It made me feel better that there are people out there that actually care about me. Yet, in weeks past, I had become too self-centered and accepting that I didn’t make the choice to do my share and be a friend when people reach out to me. You see, to have a friend isn’t just about getting what you want, it is also giving what you have to them too, that is what makes it a true friendship.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/27/adulting-caring-and-accepting-our-choices/
In this video I share reflections on the recent challenges that thew me out of rhythm and my plan to conquer them for 2022.
Originally Uploaded to: https://youtu.be/ykO81PfcYtM
In this week's video I share some of my stressors that I have faced in years past because of Christmas Folklore amnd the anxites it caused along with what I am doing differently this year
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/Vx1nloDfTEc
Practically and logically speaking the Old Christmas Story is fearful to the autistic person. Throughout my childhood, Christmas has been a challenging time for me for many factors. I am finally happy to say that I am in a good place with the holiday season and can manage the struggles it brings.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/23/christmas-challenges/
Last week was hopefully one of the most important wake up calls in my life. I had to read my weight out loud. It was a number that I neared earlier in 2021. Almost getting back to where I started this journey in 2021 was one of the hardest things I had to acknowledge. What I also had to acknowledge was the fact that I can no longer keep climbing up and focus more on losing.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/22/wellness-wednesday-no-higher/
It is often said that autistics are easily influenced. While that may be the case for many, it is not in all. Sadly, for many autistics, they don’t get to have much of an external feel of what is outside of their safe space. I also know of many autistics because of where they lie within the spectrum are unable to do so.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/21/adulting-being-influenced/
As autistics, sometimes we hear things that we don’t care to hear like being told to do things we don’t want to do. For many years I would become a spoiled little brat and act out because these things were not the way that I wanted them to be. I had to learn that part of adulting is learning to accept the unpleasant and being able to tolerate those elements by using coping skills to manage their unpleasantness.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/20/adulting-managing-unpleasantness/
In this miniseries we wll disscuss common issues that autistic adults can face over the that can make the season unpleasant.
In this week's video I share some of my stressors that I have faced this year, my apprehensions and why I am doing things that I know are right.
Also Uploaded to YouTube
Welcome to #10 in my Forging Relationships Vlog Series. While I am certainly no expert, being in my mid-thirties, I do have some insight to share about relationships with my community. The intention is to share my insight and knowledge on topics of relationships, whether for dating or as a friend that are common issues that autistics face today.
In this video, I will be sharing signs in toxic and unhealthy relationshios and how they relate to autistics face.
Originally uploaded to YouTube
As I am writing this blog post, I am doing so on my scheduled mental health day. What I once thought was something silly, then when I originally scheduled one almost two years ago that turned tragic finally after a very long time has come to fruition. With the ability to understand that things that are part of my normally scheduled routine are on what I think is a schedule, I am learning that they can wait on a day like today.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/16/the-importance-of-me-time/
Wellness. Such a thick word. We need it more than ever, even though the days are shorter, the weather and COVID-19 is raging more than it ever has. However, I realized some things within the past few days that I need to work on to not only end the year on a good note, but start 2022 fresh.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/15/wellness-wednesday-end-of-the-year-reboot/
Last weekend was a doozy of a weekend. Beside my home, the only place I went was to the neighborhood dollar store. COVID fears have set me back over time for fear of whether or not I will contract the virus. While part of this in my humble opinion is due to the fear mongering that is staged by the media, part of it is a result of my heightened anxiety about things. Sometimes we just need to rationalize and realize that doing some things in life really isn’t all that bad.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/14/concentraing-on-covid-getting-back-in-rhythm/
Autistics when outside of their comfort zone face elements that can easily trigger behaviors. These triggers and behaviors vary from individuals for several factors. I, personally, am proud of how well I have become able more recently to be equipped with the ability to manage my risk of being triggered by things that I have been known to go into various behaviors from.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/13/adulting-trigger-tolerance/
In this video, I will be key points in how issues in relations to communicatiojn with neurodivergent individuals should occur and the challenges that autistics face when needing to communicate to a friend or partner.
Original YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/GVshJufQHOY
In this week's video I'll share some things that autistics can do and can be reminded of this holiday season to ease the holiday stress.
Orginal YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/wKrMRso2E6Y
I’m In a really good place right now. But getting here hasn’t been easy. While I have been independent most of three years, it doesn't mean that it has been at all easy. It has been more bumpy than smooth. Finally after nearly three years I am in a good place with everything, despite still being in a global pandemic.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/09/a-healthy-restart/
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/07/odd-one-out/
I have mentioned over the last few weeks that I have been journaling my foods that I have been consuming. As such, I have been realizing all the damage and suffering I have been causing to my body by consuming such foods. Autistics are known to have issues with their Gastrointestinal System and I am not immune to this deficiency. Therefore, I have realized that I need to be more on top of the things I consume instead of ignoring the need to take care of myself.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/08/wellness-wednesday-being-honest-about-foods/
While this COVID-19 Pandemic continues on nearing the two-year anniversary of what is known as the Pandemic. When COVID-19 was established as a pandemic back then, it was suggested it would be over in just two weeks, then they needed a month more, then another month before things got somewhat normal. However, nearing year two, it seems with the advancement of vaccines and such, the numbers are not as emphasized or hyped about as much.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/07/concentrating-on-covid-fearmongering/
Being Autistic and growing up with so many struggles, but eventually the good comes out and you experience the good qualities of what being autistic is known for. Swinging between these two factors can play tricks on your mind, specifically your self-esteem and knowing that life is worth living. Many times it can be so hard to see the good in yourself even though those that support you can see it clearly because they have been through the trenches with you.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/06/adulting-setting-expectations/
In this miniseries we wll disscuss common issues that autistic adults can face over the that can make the season unpleasant.
This week will be a summary of four triggers that are common reasons for abnormal reaction: Change in Routine, Changes in Sensory Stimulatuion, The Need for Additional Autistic Masking in already chalenging times, and the need to attend social gatherings that are extremely difficult for autistics.
Originally Uploaded to YouTube: https://youtu.be/SBiOF0cKBlw
Welcome to #8 in my Forging Relationships Vlog Series. While I am certainly no expert, being in my mid-thirties, I do have some insight to share about relationships with my community. The intention is to share my insight and knowledge on topics of relationships, whether for dating or as a friend that are common issues that autistics face today.
In this video, I will be explaning reasons for being honest with others and helpful ways they can be addressed
Originally a YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/lqVCIHZfhMI
Managing Autism and Complex Mental Health Challenges isn’t easy. Autistics such as myself face challenges in their lives every day. It doesn’t mean that it has to be all gloom, doom and feeling sorry for myself either. It takes a healthy balance of MANY things in my life to get to the point where my life is manageable for me to live. Being independent enhances that need even further because you have to accept and know your limits and say no to things you can be tempted to do, but you know will have an ill effect in the long run.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/02/buying-in-and-being-invested/
When we think of wellness, it is good to remember that we are not only in the food and drink arena but the overall arena of being well mentally too. Part of that is building and attempting to keep up a defense wall of sorts to not let yourself become easily influenced whether that is a food or drink item or someone influencing you to do something you are uncomfortable doing.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/12/01/wellness-wednesday-your-internal-guard/
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/30/concentrating-on-covid-third-times-a-charm/
The last few days I have been aboard the self-pity train. I know lately I have been there alot and I have little reason to be. Earlier this month, I was more on a vocalized role with my parents at a time they did not need it because of a handful of deaths of those known to us. Now, my new method is pouting myself to sleep because I think I have such a horrible life when in fact it isn’t that bad.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/29/adulting-trying-to-stop-the-self-pity-train-before-it-departs/
In this video, I will be explaning tactics for dealing with situations that are unacceptable or uncomfortable for oneself and how and helpful ways they can be addressed
Original Video Uploaded to https://youtu.be/IM1uu5ZTT48
In this video, I discuss sleep issues that autistics face, including my journey and approaches with sleep over the decades, along with some research figures that I found out about sleep, why we as autistics have issues and what can be done to help autistics resemble a normal sleep pattern.
You may be surprised to see two blog posts being released in One Day. With not only Thanksgiving in just a few hours, the early release is being done as a teaching moment to be more self-aware and realize when you need to get support or reach out to someone when you need it.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/24/accepting-the-call/
On this Thanksgiving Eve I chose to write about the challenges I face about my weight. Being autistic and having a host of Mental Health Challenges along with necessary medications that cause me to want to eat constantly doesn’t help this process.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/24/wellness-wednesday-weight-loss-is-tough/
As we enter another communal holiday season amongst a global pandemic, I cannot seem to forget that last Thanksgiving was likely the culprit to a semi-shutdown resulting in a Christmas that we have never experienced in modern history. While we have vaccinations and we are nearing target rates, I still fear having a repeat again this year due to the inaction of many to take the proper precaution.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/23/concentrating-on-covid-fear-of-a-repeat/
Being independent requires the need to make several decisions to make sure that you are doing the bare minimum to be sure that you are being responsible in events like taking your medicine and not illegitimately spending money you know you need to live on.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/22/adulting-your-life-your-choices/
Welcome to #5 in my Forging Relationships Vlog Series. While I am certainly no expert, being in my mid-thirties, I do have some insight to share about relationships with my community. The intention is to share my insight and knowledge on topics of relationships, whether for dating or as a friend that are common issues that autistics face today. In this video, I will be explaning characteristics of boundaries and how they play out in healthy as well as unhealthy environments alongh with relatiing them to an autistic perspective.
Zoom Background: Carnegie Free Library: www.carnegiefreelib.org
Learn More about PA's Health Care Quality Units:https://www.dhs.pa.gov/providers/Prov...
Based of Kristen Snowden's Boundaries Chart: https://6db38411-fb48-4de6-b961-e238a...
Originally Posted to https://youtu.be/cqsCLtHkcPk
Discussing traits that cause autistics to be gullable, taken advantage or our other henious behaviors that make them victims in many regards
Zoom Background: Carnegie Free Library: www.carnegiefreelib.org
Learn More about PA's Health Care Quality Units:https://www.dhs.pa.gov/providers/Prov...
Some tips were paraphrased from this article with added flair by myself: https://researchautism.org/too-nice-a.
Originally Posted to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpuF9pDWrIs
There are times when you have just had enough. You cannot be the solver to everyone’s problems nor can you be the supporter for them whenever you are unable to hold your own mental health grounding. I must realize that I need to take care of my mental health and accept the fact that I need to be assertive and fight for what I need to do to take care of myself.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/18/sometimes-enough-is-enough/
Mindfulness is the hot term we have been hearing in relation to mental wellness in recent years. According to the Oxford Dictionary, its meaning is two-fold. One is the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something. The other, which I have been focusing on, defines it as a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/17/wellness-wednesday-mindfulness/
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/16/concentrating-on-covid-vaccine-effectiveness-resurgency/
One of the things that helps me when combating some issues related to my autism is to talk things through. It helps me solve issues that I may not have the direct answer for or what I need to solve something that may be difficult in my eyes. It is one of those qualities that many autistics know is intact but don’t use it in the same way as typically developing people do.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/15/adulting-our-inner-voice/
In this video, I share the importance of saying NO in a friendship and relationship and some of the experiences I have with this. Included are beneficial reasons why it is good to stand up and say no as it relates to friendships and relationships ans why it is a crucial piece of communication when interacting with those you are in either a friendship or relationshiip with.
Origins of a YouTube VIdeo: https://youtu.be/vRe1fjn6jpA
Contiuing this week in the series, we discuss the crucial qualities in what standars make good friends and what traits are essential for being a good friend.
Origins of a YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/VwR8E1qwJ0o
Sometimes as an autisitc person, I just want to not try to put an effort towards what I am doing. I have to say that if I didn’t have a multitude of support in my world, I probably would have ended in a long-term placement. While supports are good to have, they are not the answer to all your solutions and you must do the work too to your ability to show you can be a part of the solution.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/11/foundation-of-supports-and-getting-what-you-need/
In a change of recent events, my routine of accountability for most of the month of November has been uprooted. In a way it is a true blessing for me to test the waters if I can really hold myself accountable for managing the food I put in my body and being active to some degree. I know I have to hold up and work on being well for multiple reasons. I cannot make excuses for not doing something because it may be uncomfortable or easier to not think about it.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/10/wellness-wednesday-realizing-needs/
For what COVID has took and caused with its wrath, it has brought many joys to the table. In the past 20 months, we have seen the evolution of technology as much as a love-hate relationship. Everyone in the world has a relationship with it, it connects me to communities that I would have not otherwise have had access to.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/09/concentrating-on-covid-time-to-learn/
I was sulking in self-pity over the simplest of things for no reason at all. As November is a great month to be thankful, of which I have many things to be thankful for. I wanted those close to me to draw attention to me and feel bad for me and I wanted to feel pity on myself because things don’t go to my plan.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/08/adulting-battling-self-pity/
Third of the Forging Friendships Series. This one delves into what I feel is one of the most important parts of a relationhip, being asked to be in a relationship. I share my expereinces of this and the effects this has caused me. Also shared will be some inklings how this is the segway to future videos in the series as this made me realize that I needed to regognize some things for my own self.
Original YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/8WF9z8ahPNo
Discussing Ideas for turning self-puty (feeling sorry for yourself) into self-compassion, which I needed to hear the past week. I also share some of my experiences of Self-Pity and the vicious cycle of pity and the need for validation.
Original YouTube Post: https://youtu.be/bCq0VpGSygo
On this date one year ago, I signed the lease for my current and second home. Just five months earlier due to a combination of many ill factors, I left my first home and was with my parents, although I was with them for four months before that. While I was at my worst behaviorally in twenty years, it would take a year in my surroundings, which is truly a blessing to be on the mend.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/04/one-year-counting-my-blessings/
As we head into the first week of what actually feels like real winter. I am making preparations for having to remain at home should the need arise. I feel like because of all the recent complications due to the pandemic that has been experienced in the region that a repeat of last year could be on the horizon. Therefore, I personally feel it is best to live by the wise Boy Scout motto “be prepared.”
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/03/wellness-wednesday-rededication/
November is Homeless Awareness Month. It is an issue I take very seriously. According to a 2015 Hud Survey 24% of the US identified as having a mental Illness. This is more likely to be prevalent in homeless individuals and as such Autism is later recognized, thus lacking proper training for the staff that support these fragile individuals.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/02/homeless-awareness-month/
I know I need to be occupied when I am alone. When I am alone, it is a preempter to becoming isolated and after pledging not to do so in therapy this week, I spent most of the weekend doing so. I know I can’t get back that time and I have to move on because it is what you do.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/11/01/adulting-lonliness-as-winter-sets-in/
Sharing with viewers the importance of learning and understanding the use of the word NO and why it is important in the life of the autistic person.
Original YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/I_6T3AkU_r8
Continuing the Forging Friendshps Series. This week, discussed is the importance of needs, wants and talents in friendships and relationships and the importance of communicating these topics.
Original YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/qAeo5Ii1x30
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/27/behind-the-mask/
It can wait. Three simple words for over three years were hard to digest. As an autistic person, I experience the common traits of having a mind that is at times in constant overdrive. For two decades, I have been prescribed medication to help wind the brain down for the day and for other symptoms (irritability, aggression, etc.) that are used to help behaviors associated with autism. However, for the past three years, I continually flaunted disaster by skipping doses of this medicine because of my overdrive.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/28/it-can-wait/
As promised in Monday’s Adulting Post, I would specify greater with the need to have foods that I can control, rather than want to do it. While it can be hard to reprogram a body to learn new habits, it gets to the point that you realize that is more needed than wanted.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/27/wellness-wednesday-need-more-than-want/
Contrary to popular belief, Autistic People want to work, fairly and equally. We oftentimes can show our struggles or deficits more than our talents. Also those with marginal, and other barriers to employment face constant roadblocks to be a contribution to society not as a backstage piece, but one who is seen in the community and is recognized for their efforts.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/26/ndeam-recognize-the-needs-of-all-especially-disabled-workers-in-the-workplace/
When an autistic person or anyone with a disability moves out on their own, many times, they rely on the assistance of community help. Sometimes items in the supplement can contain food that doesn’t have directions for preparation of that item. This can make an autistic person or anyone who lacks such skills of preparing foods that should be known very confusing,
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/25/adulting-the-know-how-of-surviving/
Spawned off of a panel discussion in my own experiences of Autism and Dating, I will be sharing experiences of dating and friendships that I have experienced over the years,. This video makes some points to be aware of to make sure an autistic person is ready to pursue a relationship-style friendship.
Video Availlable: https://youtu.be/1OMcIEiiiRI
Sharing Why it is important to take "Mental Health Days" from one's normal schedule and what you can do to help your physical and mental health during a "Mental Health" Day.
Video Available: https://youtu.be/Q7bAsEUOBtk
Somewhere, I can’t find the actual credit for this weeks’ feature blog post, but I truly believe that it is the honest to goodness truth. Being independent, when I get in the spurts of cleaning and making my home presentable to others, I am truly in my happy place because it is a task I can be proud of.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/21/a-clean-home-is-a-happy-home/
Back to the wellness department, I honestly have to say in both regards of physical and mental wellness the fight has been hard to keep burning. I know it is the right thing to do, but the inner voices keep thinking that going off-course would be a better idea, although I mentally revisit the points that don’t make it so good.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/20/wellness-wednesday-keeping-up-the-fight/
Being autistic, I have worked in many capacities at most points since I was 18 years old. At some intervals prior, I was volunteering in my community. My parents instilled being autistic was not an excuse to be a couch potato. I needed to do something in my life, no matter if it was only part-time, I was not to be stagnant in the house or be attracted to the computer full-time.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/19/ndeam-the-benefits-of-having-an-autistic-employee/
Autistics have multiple phobias of doing things mainly brought forth by induced anxiety. Throughout childhood, this fear resonated deep within me and even today I have some unquenched fears before getting an injection or blood draw. However, I have slowly understood that these events are a necessary function of life that must be undertaken for my health.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/18/adulting-phobias-of-needles/
Discussion on the evolvement of various teleconferencing/ videoconference platforms since the beginnning of the COVID-19 Pandemic and how it has helped autisics with issues such as burnout, etc. that would otherwise make them unable to do such things that almost two years ago seemed impossible.
Some Content from: https://venturebeat.com/2021/03/07/the-autistic-bliss-of-zoom/
Source: YouTube Vlog: https://youtu.be/9vK55wvBkeU
Discussing How and what ausitic castrophizing, including triggers and how to help autistics get grounded back from the thought process. Source of Some Material: https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/professional-practice/autism-catastrophising
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/w0ww-Kd8j4U
In the past few years the hashtag and theme of #actuallyautustic have been more present than ever. While for decades the voices of autistics have been dialed down. We must remember that autistics come from many walks of life and sometimes need the voice and support of their family and/or related allies in one’s journey. Therefore, I feel it is important that all voices in one’s journey may need to be heard.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/14/family-and-ally-voices-do-matter/
I just don't understand why every week I am presented with challenges about being accountable to the scale at the weight loss meeting and the need of understanding the dynamics of how food results in what you weigh. Being too judgmental can be detrimental in ensuring that a weigh-in is successful no matter the outcome along with the need to be actually trying to lose weight.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/13/wellness-wednesday-just-like-starting-over/
As we move into the second week of National Disabilities Employment Awareness Month, I am starting to be more grateful for my employment opportunity that was provided to me with no questions asked 11 and a half years ago. At that time, I vaguely knew what the job entailed or what I would be doing, however I knew I could disappoint the party that sought me, therefore I made a commitment to take the job.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/12/ndeam-how-work-made-me-improve-my-social-skills/
Becoming an adult, especially in an independent living situation requires the execution and management of tasks that need to be completed on a routine basis in order to keep the habitat a well-oiled machine. Things need to be done, but keeping balance with everything else can be quite tough for one’s executive functioning.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/11/adultiing-task-execution-and-management/
Explaining reasons that autistic people struggle with friendships including myself and the struggles I have faced over the past decade especially in my employment.
Video: https://youtu.be/v_c98dK9c6Y
Folllowing up with a post I seen on Facebook diminishing the validity of whether the voices of Families of Autistic People Matter, well they do!
Video: https://youtu.be/t2A_j2Fg5t0
As many know, being autistic can present challenges with keeping and understanding friendships. The lack of them can deter the positivity of one’s well-being. COVID has made the isolation effect of those who have no friends very challenging and can result in flare-ups of mental health symptoms that wouldn’t have been there prior.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/07/putting-myself-out-there/
Sharing the experiences and differences of the need to Respond to situations instead of reacting to them which can make a difference of how a situation will present its outcome.
https://youtu.be/E3XFpxl0S-U
Sharing the thougths of what the difference of being empowered versus what being entitled is to a person why empowerment is the better quaility rather than it nemesis entitlement.
https://youtu.be/bfx7GIZ69HU
This week has been a rough week for me again in the wellness department. It has shown me that no matter how hard you try to work at losing weight, it will not immediately be proven at scale, even if you think it should. When this happens, it can be hard to accept the result of your unsuccessful result and you just want to give up, but you know that you cannot do that because the weight will keep on gaining if you don’t.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/06/wellness-wednesday-the-continual-fight/
In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month this year and to take a break from the exhausting COVID-19 Pandemic, we will be taking Tuesdays to regenerate the #Hire Autistic Adults Series. This week we will have 10 things to know about Employment as it relates to autism.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/05/hireautisticadults-ndeam2021-10-things-to-know/
Being an autistic adult, I always want to throw a pity party about how bad life is for me. Sometimes, all it takes is a good therapy session for someone to remind me of all the talents I have and how I yet shy away from showing who my true self is so others can applaud my efforts that I do for the community both far and wide.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/10/04/adulting-being-proud-of-your-talents/
Ironically, as we close on National Preparedness Month today, I have experienced preparation and ill-preparation of what is needed should events occur. Unexpectedly a few weeks ago, I experienced a power outage during the evening hours at my home and for seven hours, I was without power. Luckily, I was prepared to some extent, but as always it provides for a learning experience to be prepared in the event it happens next time.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/30/have-your-plan/
Monday night was one of those days. It was the usual Mondays, off to work a stop at the day program to check in and then later in the afternoon to TOPS. TOPS, short for Take Off Pounds Sensibly, has been in existence for over 70 years and has a mission of being a non-profit and helping people Take and eventually Keep Off Pounds Sensibly.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/29/wellness-wednesday-a-final-wake-up-call/
The last week brought forth an unscheduled vacation due to the unforeseen circumstances of several coworkers within the confines of the office contracting COVID or being an exposure or close contact of someone. Fortunately after much investigation, it was discovered that I was not affected. Nonetheless, I caused a great amount of anxiety and worry about many things.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/28/concentrating-on-covid-a-really-scary-time/
Nowadays the comorbidities of being autistic and having other mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia is more prevalent than ever. With the blending of these comorbidities when something is communicated, it can cause a trigger to the autistic person in the form of unwanted behavior or anxieties.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/27/adulting-hearing-what-you-dont-want-to-hear/
Sharing the down and dark feelings about returning to the work week and why it is important to have meaningful work in your life. Also discussed is anxiety that I experience before doing someting that may produce anxiety or become challenging.
Disussing how abrupt changes have made an abrupt week and what helped it from becoming more challenging than it was.
This week, I had the opportunity to attend a day of awards ceremonies awarding those who have supported youth and those adults, including myself four years ago who have made that journey, While I am sitting here reflecting on those years since receiving that award over four years ago. It is often brought to the forefront of the additional things I achieved, some major setbacks and bounced back from the major ones.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/23/a-journey-is-a-journey/
This week has been an out of this world week. But if anything it has taught me to never give up on my dreams, including my hopes and dreams for a healthier lifestyle. While we may have not hit the target as of yet, in the distance can see the destination ahead and it looks wonderful.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/22/wellness-wednesday-inspiration-comes-in-mysterious-ways/
This week has been an out of this world week. But if anything it has taught me to never give up on my dreams, including my hopes and dreams for a healthier lifestyle. While we may have not hit the target as of yet, in the distance can see the destination ahead and it looks wonderful.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/21/concentating-on-covid-honor-and-divide/
In last week’s adulting blog, I discussed being independent and having the ability to make your own choices and own them without feeling invalid. This week, while accepting more boundaries for myself made me understand that I, along with anyone else autistic or neurotypical, have rights for themselves. One of the struggles that I see in many autistics, including myself, is that of consent.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/20/adulting-consent/
Expressing the Importance of Basic Human Rights and Consent that Autisitcs (and their neurotypical peers) should express whenever they need to feels safe and secure from harm and valid
Discussing the need of the importance of pleasure releases in autistics in relation to the need to find personal pleasure for relieving stress and self-emotional regulation.
Series Attended mentioned in the vlog was The Philadelphia Autism Network – Self-Advocate (PAN-S) Workshop Series: https://www.phillyautismproject.org/pan-s/
Like many other people I struggle with saying no. There are a number of reasons for this. I read another advocate’s blog post on this issue and thought it was deemed important to address this in my blog as how it affects me as there are no two people with the same issue.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/16/saying-no-burnout-assertiveness-and-downtime/
This week is a landmark week on the wellness journey. Six months ago I had a visit to my doctor’s office where I got on the scale. I weighed 358 pounds, the clinically highest in my life. For some time I had experienced back pain and other difficulties when walking long distances. When I got on the scale that day, I knew I had to get back on track because the Quarenteen and then some had caught up to me.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/15/wellness-wednesday-keeping-forward/
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/14/concentrating-on-covid-vaccination-fear/
When an autistic adult makes that big leap into independence. They are oftentimes away from the cusp of their very guarding parents, however some can still remain a close bond. The circumstances for this can remain very complex and as a result can make the ability for the autistic person to feel at ease about making decisions that they can feel comfortable or that they know is in their best interest, despite their close supporters objecting to their choices.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/13/adulting-making-choices-for-you/
Discussing on maturing from being under a parent's wing by growing and building your own life by doing things you enjoy!
Disccussing about the critical topic in the autism community when parents are no longer here for their autistic children and why it is important for autistics (if they are able,) to get in the skills necessary now before their parent is no longer here to support them.
As we honor that tragic day twenty years ago. I remember fondly where I was and what I was doing. It started like any day as my sophomore year in Senior High School. It was the second week of school and transitioning back to my home school district after a year away at a residential treatment facility. I was getting used to my new school and was doing fairly well.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/11/special-a-september-day-like-no-other-20-years-later/
This week has been a challenging week. It has worn me out a great deal and has caused some toughness among those that care for me. Hopefully, it gets better as I know that it will eventually. Still, the initial getting out of what we have been used to for so long is very challenging.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/09/leaving-the-comfort-zone/
With the hot and humid weather, the past few months, it has been detrimental for me to want to partake in any walking. As such, I have been lacking in taking care of myself and can now realize that some of the pains from walking long distances have returned and I know that it can get bad if not properly rectified to having more of a shift on overall wellness.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/08/wellness-wednesday-excuses-excuses/
Autistics are experiencing a massive amount of regression of their progress mostly due to the fear’s restrictions and limited capability of the state of the world.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/07/concentrating-on-covid-regression-of-retained-progress/
As many autistic people, I have difficulty experiencing when supports change. I define support as anything that is essential for me to experience my day. The past year has brought several changes of support in many autistics because of burnout of those providing support, I am no exception to the rule from experiencing this issue.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/06/adulting-change-of-support/
Discussiing regression and fear of autistic persons as a result of the looming COVID-19 Pamdemic and related issues
With the current weather the country has been facing this past week. I felt it necessary to discuss how adverse weather events affects autistic people. I also share the importance of being prepared for the event should one need to evacuate and the need to have necessary items prior to departure and the importance of such.
If you are eastern United States, you are for sure hearing something with the word “Ida” in it. What was part of a terrible Hurricane and now as of this writing a Tropical Depression has been an overwork for me in the anxiety department this week. This is a crucial reason why those with autism and other disabilities should have in place a plan in the event of a disaster.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/02/disasters-bring-out-the-best/
Just as informing myself on current events is an essential start to the day, likewise it is essential to self-regulate at the end of the workday. It doesn’t make me less of a man by doing so. We as autistics are all unique in our very own way and our coping mechanism should be equally valued.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/09/01/wellness-wednesday-regulate-if-necessary-to-take-care-of-you/
As we continue down the path of this pandemic, I am locally seeing the effects of those in the workforce either returning to school or choosing not to work. It is deeply affecting me as I am experiencing lesser dining options or having a more delayed response for deliveries. As such, I am having to change my game up to ensure that I am being content in the community.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/31/concentrating-on-covid-change-it-up/
While some with autism are pre-programmed to make lists, there are still a host of autidtic individuals that for the life of them cannot fathom the ability to ensure that all the tasks they need to do in order to have a functional life cannot be assured, even as they prepare for independence by living with family or another similar situation.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/30/adulting-task-management/
This week I found a post on the social media platforms for the Hiki app, an online dating and friendship app for the autism community. This topic was requested by one of their users because they too struggle with boundaries. Boundaries can be difficult to define and build, but once you do, you will feel better physically and mentally.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/26/how-to-set-healty-boundaries/
Many people with autism fight for what they want and while they may fall down, they oftentimes pick themselves up and continue the fight and because many of us have a lot on our plate these days, I and others with autism may need to be given grace and be allowed to use whatever coping mechanisms necessary to be well.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/25/wellness-wednesday-keep-trying/
We are nearing a year and a half in this ever-glooming pandemic and it seems like it is never going to end. I, like many in the world am trying my best to be resilient. However, with all the social media feeds overfilling with information about COVID-19, it can become a challenge to be resilient.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/24/concentrating-on-covid-exhaustive-fears/
Self-Determination is defined as the process by which a person controls their own life. As an adult with autism, this can be a challenge because we always have a reservation in our heads of whether or not we will get in trouble for the choices we make and whether or not they are good decisions.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/23/adulting-self-determination/
For many in the autism community, we want someone to be our friend. Sometimes, I have been told that it takes us the person ourselves to be a friend to someone else. It is difficult for many people with autism to do and can become very taxing at times to have a return effect. All we want sometimes is for someone to be there for us, however after investing a lot of energy it can seem difficult when little energy by the other party is given.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/19/can-we-really-be-a-friend/
A common trait in autism is the fact that while many of us want to meet our basic needs to be well, we often cannot recognize the need to do so. This process is called interception. It can come across to others that we are lazy and don’t care about our basic needs, when in fact we just don’t know that we need to take care of it.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/18/wellness-wednesday-introception/
While people with autism are oftentimes known as introverted, backwards or shy, many of want the same things neurotypical people have in their lives, friendships and yes, possibly a relationship.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/17/concentrating-on-covid-more-division/
While people with autism are oftentimes known as introverted, backwards or shy, many of want the same things neurotypical people have in their lives, friendships and yes, possibly a relationship.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/16/adulting-what-is-a-friend-to-you/
When we as autistics try to do things in life as neurotypicals do, it can present challenges for autistics that aren’t friendly to our needs. We as autistics don’t want special treatment, we just want to be able to do things that make it manageable for us. The world also needs to be aware that autism is indeed a spectrum disorder and does not stop the minute a person turns 18.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/12/making-sure-we-can-have-the-same-opportunities-as-everyone-else-in-a-safe-manner/
Sometimes it can be hard when we as human beings don’t see the number or the progress that we want to have. That is no different for one who is in a constant battle of losing weight. While at first, I was doing very well by not gaining any weight for around 15 weeks in a row, a halt arrived and It took me about a month to realize that I need to step up my game plan.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/11/wellness-wednesday-a-succssful-comeback/
This week, I wanted to share how one other autistic blogger shares on Social Media has shown the autism community how and why we as parents and autistics and autistic self-advocates take the COVID-19 Outbreak so seriously.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/10/concentrating-on-covid-why-disabled-people-worry-about-covid/
As we know, autism is a spectrum disorder. We as autistics are unique in our very own ways, each and every one of us. No one can change that, nor should we be forced to do so. We as autistics, just as neurotypical human beings should have the freedom have the individuality that we so choose as long as our safety and well-being is kept in mind.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/09/adulting-individuality/
This week as much as last week has been a challenge. As autistics we oftentimes like things to happen precisely as we predict them. Sometimes, there are abrupt, unavoidable challenges to our routines or changes to our schedules that we don’t see coming.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/05/adaptability-to-flexibility/
The past week and the entire month of July has been a challenge in regards to me losing weight. For a while I had the thought of “I don’t care what anyone thinks,” kind of attitude. It proved me wrong. The answer that I think that I need to get me back on track with both weight loss and also being well is to cut the soda.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/04/wellness-wednesday-taking-care-of-it/
As we turn the corner on a new month, I am beginning to see the changes that we once strayed away from return back to what they once were. I am increasingly seeing more persons wearing masks in the store and more of the “not let it slide” thing occur. It is a part of life and is how we fight our fight.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/03/concentrating-on-covid-a-fearful-return/
All human beings have breaking points when becoming irritated. However, autistics have certain triggering and breaking points that because of sensory or other overload or triggers of information that may be empathetic of how their day is that it becomes the point that they reach their breaking point.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/08/02/adulting-breaking-points/
It has came to light this week of US Olympian Simone Biles abruptly taking a hiatus from the Olympics to focus on her care. This post is to show there is no shame in getting care. Remember, there is no health without Mental Health!
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/29/you-are-worth-it/
I feel it is important to share my Mental Health Struggles during the COVID-19 Pandemic as it is important to the wellness of everyone in the autistic community both individuals and those serving them. Remember, there is no health without mental health
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/28/wellness-wednesday-no-health-without-mental-health/
The past few Tuesdays I did stray away from the COVID course and talk about employment. However, I feel as if I need to return to the topic of COVID again as it is becoming more relevant in recent days.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/27/concentrating-on-covid-yes-we-still-have-to-worry/
While as a child I did get upset if someone coming to my home to see me was a more than a minute late, that is no longer the case as I have built up the flexibility to understand that things don’t happen as they are planned.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/26/adutling-how-important-is-time/
Recently in browsing my social media accounts, I came across an autism mom blogger that shared a graphic of a quote that states that autism doesn’t come with a manual, rather it come with a parent who never gives up, While I may haven’t always seen eye to eye with what my parents thought I should have done, they have always sought out my best interests while making sure I was remaining safe.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/22/a-parents-love-is-never-ending/
This past week has been a learning lesson for sure. I did walk some, but I didn’t walk to the degree that I had in the past weeks. On top of that my food choices were not that great. I have been for the past few weeks on a slippery slope with my weight loss, and as a result, I broke my fifteen-week losing streak and gained some of the weight back. The principal factor of me doing this was due to the fact that I have chosen to not be as active and allow me to overeat too much of the not so good foods with just making up any sort of rationale that I could satisfy myself with.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/21/wellness-wednesday-the-need-to-be-active/
In recent years, there have been a number of initiatives to hire autistic adults as they age out of high school, because they oftentimes need a solid day of structured activity. This doesn’t mean that they are meaningless people. It’s just that they need to put their creative juices to work.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/20/hireautisticadults-keep-us-engaged/
Another amazing week is on the horizon and I am all set for the week. I say that I am all set for the week because everything in my habitat is neat and orderly. It is a stereotype that autistics are all obsessively compulsive about everything. While we do have fascination on the things we do enjoy, it is likely that we do not specifically have a fascination on the things we must complete in our daily lives.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/19/adulting-maintaining-order/
As we know in the autistic world, the age one becomes an adult is 18, at least by law they do. They can mostly make their own decisions that they see fit. But are they making the best decisions? That’s what a live and learn has to be when one has to experience those personal freedoms.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/15/decisions-decisions/
This week in the wellness department has been a challenge for me. Results haven’t proven as well and the drive to keep going was lacking earlier last week, even one day, temptation drove me away from the goal in mind of walking, something I know is a must do in my fight to continue to lose weight in this journey.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/14/wellness-wednesday-temptation-distraction/
Oftentimes when we try to relate autistics with being employed, autistics and employers alike often think it is impossible. I at times think I don’t want to work and like many others think it is easier to become a vegetable. But what good what that do?
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/13/hireautisticadults-wanting-to-work/
As an autistic, it can be hard at times to maintain a positive outlook on life. Being independent can deter this greatly to the point that negativity brews until you have an outlet, specifically a person that supports you to vent this too. It can be a challenge for them to hear your constant rants of negativity time and time again. Therefore, it is essential to have a positive outlook on your life, come whatever circumstances one may experience.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/12/adulting-positivity/
Monday, I competed in my second 5K competitive walk this year.While I had my concerns that brought a great amount of intense fear, I to the contrary (like many things I do) did quite well.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/07/wellness-wednesday-the-motivation-point/
Tired of focusing my Tuesday blog posts toward the gloom and doom of COVID. I have decided to re-shift Tuesday’s focus towards the need to hire autistic adults.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/06/hireautisticadults-working-is-beneficial/
Throughout my life I have experienced many bouts of anxiety when presented the opportunity when something different presents itself. Oftentimes it throws me into this catastrophic fear that something bad is going to happen, when in reality once I do it, I know that it is the best thing for me to do and that I will have a blast doing it.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/05/adulting-its-ok-to-try-new-things/
This week, I have shared a few Tik Tok’s about being diagnosed in the 1990s and not knowing some autism behaviors that are common today. We just did them, we didn’t know the jargon that is used for them today. One must also understand that given one’s space it needs to be their safe space and they are free to express themselves in the way they wish.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/07/01/its-ok-in-your-space/
Making a lifestyle change is a big journey. Being in for over three months and 36 or so pounds makes it seem so easy when it is absolutely not. People think as you get into it for this length of time it gets easier. While sometimes it does, there are a lot of environmental factors along with the outlook that you have that can make or break the streak that one is on at any given moment.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/30/wellness-wednesday-dont-criticize-the-small-strides/
To say that COVID has affected the mental health of those around the world would be an understatement. Even for those individuals including autistics that have had to experience a multitude of changes over the past fifteen months has been a challenge to say the least. I am very grateful that I have had not any ill effects of the virus or was not furloughed from my employment as a result of the pandemic. COVID added to an already traumatic experience that I was experiencing that ultimately caused me to be on the lookout for what would be my current home.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/29/concentrating-on-covid-a-slow-return/
As we know in the autism community, there’s that cliff when school years ends for someone. I have seen numerous youths be proud to make it to this point when they were given lesser expectations. So, what happens? We certainly know that those that care for them, particularly family members may or may not want to continue to provide care or be unaware of a sea that is unchartered for many to be the one that has to take the driver’s seat in providing their daily entertainment. For almost two decades, I personally relied on my mother to do this. She cares for me very much and I am very appreciated for her efforts. However, for a majority of my life, they have negative baggage that when she does something that is intended to help me, it only hurts her, and she kept coming back for more. While I am not proud of this in the past decade it has been reduced down to only verbal abuse, nonetheless it still isn’t right as both my parents are both in their retirement years and shouldn’t have to be constantly worrying about if I am safe or not, although I feel that will always be their instinct, as is any parent who spends their life dedicated to raising an autistic child.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/28/adulting-grow-up-and-do-it-yourself/
Being independent for almost three years has taught me some life lessons in being independent. I have done some things in that time I haven’t been proud of and there’s things I’ve not succeeded at. However, it is a learning curve and within time it gets better. There’s this great thing called boundaries that you have to develop that can be a challenge. Once you learn the power of it and knowing when to stand your ground, it is a wonderful thing.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/24/knowing-your-limits/
I have talked about my soda addiction on and off on my blog for some time and I have to admit until three days ago I have had a real bad addiction and I knew it. From the moment I woke up in the morning I had to have that rush of caffeine. It led my life in what I did in my life in every given moment, what I had with my meals. It became addictive as it is and challenging at the same time.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/23/wellness-wednesday-one-last-time-hopefully-its-for-real/
We are narrowing down to the point that masking orders will be going away in my state. However, that doesn’t mean wearing a mask is totally wiped off the slate of the American culture. Establishments, at their governed choosing may elect to mandate the wearing of masks, whether or not you are fully vaccinated. While things are winding down for me, I still chose to keep my guard up.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/22/concentrating-on-covid-normalcy-and-bondaries/
In the three and a half decades in my life I have grown so much into a mature adult. I know that I need to ‘grow up’ as my therapist says because I haven’t dealt with the irrational fears and the brewing thoughts. The anger has been mostly subdued into a verbal form, but I know that there is room for improvement.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/21/adulting-brewing-thoguhts-irrational-fear-and-anger/
I received my Asperger’s Diagnosis in 1998 when I was 13 years old. Little was known to the people helping me back then. There was little inclination of many connections that Asperger’s and now inherited into Autism Spectrum Disorder could be managed more naturally.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/17/autistic-pride-and-acceptance/
This Saturday in the wellness department has been monumental for me. Not only was it my 36th Birthday, but it was also day I completed a 5K Walk for the first time in over eight years. For only being serious about losing weight for only almost three months, I am proud that I did not finish last in the race and that I can compete at my age while still being well enough to do the basic things in life.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/16/wellness-wednesday-work-is-paying-off/
As we are into week two being mostly restriction free from the COVID-19 Pandemic, we are beginning to see what normal is. Along with government mandates being lifted, within the upcoming time restrictions at the places I frequent are being eased as well. However, I with COVID-19, I feel that it was a teaching moment to the world for several reasons.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/15/concentrating-on-covid-normal-is-on-the-way/
When one lives alone. A need often arises when one needs to shopping. To persons that are autistic or have several mental health challenges, this can become a struggle to do. As such when the willpower is not there, people will do with what they can by ordering take out or not eating at all. Part of adulting includes garnering up the courage to go to the store, purchase your items and bring them home and put them away.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/14/adulting-the-challenges-that-stem-from-the-necessity-of-shopping/
For some autistics, being independent, having their own place and being able to take care of themselves are the ultimate wishes of many, including the family that cares for them. For the family, if they feel it can be done, they will likely try in earnest to make sure that it can be done in order to make all parties satisfied. While skills are learned and a suitable home for the individual is secured, oftentimes upkeep is required in order to maintain a decent living standard.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/10/showing-you-care/
The last few days we have been walking in the morning hours to beat the heat as it has been oppressive the past week. Even if we go just after daybreak, it indeed was challenging. There are times I wonder “why don’t I just not do this anymore?”
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/09/wellness-wednesday-almost-close/
Tuesday marks one week since all restrictions have been lifted in my state with the exception of Universal Masking. However, that is something that many chose not to practice or feel confident without masking in the community. While masking is still practiced in some regard, it is being part of what is a different normal.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/08/concentrating-on-covid-a-different-normal/
For many autistics, the ability to make one’s decisions can be a difficult task for an autistic to perform. For the younger crowd, one that seems to lack the ability or show the interest of one doing this will result in the parent making these choices for them, which can result in friction between the autistic and their parents. An autistic should have the autonomy to be the person they so choose to be without judgement from their parents and supporters, yet have the support they need to thrive in their world.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/07/adulting-autonomy/
One of the struggles that I have faced continually in my autistic life is that of norms that just don’t come natural to me. For things that are taught growing up to a person that somewhat come natural to them, for many autistic persons, they just don’t become normal for them. More so, when they are reminded by a supporter to do something that should come as normal, this can become frustrating for them and complicates the process.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/03/misunderstood-norms/
Sometimes getting through the weeks can be difficult, sometimes it takes getting through each day or even every hour. It’s extremely hard when you live alone and I am proud to have my mother for support although oftentimes I don’t show it in the way that I should, but in the end, I know I couldn’t do it without her and her multitude of support. To here I sincerely devote this post to her.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/02/wellness-wednesday-walking-is-positive/
Since having the chance to be in public since some mandates for masking have been lifted for the fully vaccinated such as myself, I have experienced some of that freedom.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/06/01/concentrating-on-covid-a-happier-time/
We want nothing but a friendship out of it, but we must be mindful of where we lay our boundaries because we don’t want to become susceptible to become a victim of something that we in no way wanted to be a part of.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/31/adulting-boundaries/
This week, I have been going through some personal struggles and as such reached out to one of my support workers for wisdom, my one support worker I reached out to in my time of struggle has been encouraging for over a year to remain consistent with blogging and it has developed to the weekly series we have today on here. However, he suggested that for my open topic this week that I share with my community what I define happiness as, since I have been struggling with it a lot recently and a sense of belonging.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/27/happiness-is/
This week on the wellness front has been trying, but not without its benefits. We’ve been serious about everything healthy for eight weeks now. In that time, I have built up to walking over three miles for exercise, been mindful when eating and have lost 21 pounds in that timeframe.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/26/wellness-wednesday-progress-shows/
With the recent changes in the COVID masking order, it has been confusing to say the least. Especially if you are vaccinated, it can be more cumbersome as to where you are mandated to wear your mask. To further compound this issue, it can be challenging because it is on the honor system and you just can’t go up to someone and ask if they are vaccinated because of privacy laws. To further compound these issues, in my state next week, all COVID-related restrictions will be lifted.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/25/concentrating-on-covid-maskng-wildcard/
While some things because of my autism or mental health challenges are at times challenging, sometimes I need to experience them and not play the “card” as a crutch to get out of something. This can be difficult because when thinking independently, it can be hard to make these decisions.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/24/adulting-disability-as-an-excuse/
I am almost 36 years old. I have experienced a lot of issues in my life and now is finally the point when I am content to the point where I feel my life is manageable. I know that I have to keep plugging along by doing the right thing and not veering off.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/20/a-reflection-of-being-better/
Welcome to yet another Wellness Wednesday. It has been a week of learning new things, celebrating achievements and being healthier. As you grow and learn from being healthier, it becomes easier for you and thus better in the long run. You lose more weight, and it is easier for you to do things.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/19/wellness-wednesday-it-gets-better/
As many Americans last week heard from President Biden, those who have been vaccinated no longer have to wea a mask in public. As such many retailers including Walmart have now followed suit with this rule. Now as a vaccinated autistic person, I now have to carry my mask around from locale to locale as the mask policies may differ from location to location.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/18/concentrating-on-covid-free-at-last-not-totally/
While in the modern era, we advance to the need for inclusion everywhere we look such as sports, activities, the classroom and so forth, it is also important to teach autistics and others with special needs that life just isn’t fair and sometimes we all can’t be winners.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/17/adulting-inclusion-and-fairness/
It is a factor in the autistic community that we are prone to being easily influenced by others mostly because we want that sense of belonging. However, when it becomes to the point when it consumes our life and sucks our energy because we cannot do things in our lives that we ourselves enjoy or just be able to relax.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/13/autism-and-social-vulnerability/
Another week of plugging along with the wellness piece of my mental health recovery has proved well. From the surface it looks as if I have all the pieces of the wellness train together. At times, it can be real frazzled ball of mess of sorts.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/12/wellness-wednesday-the-extra-push/
Change in autistics is a known challenge, I oftentimes mask what I am feeling and then vent it out to someone that I consider it my safe person. But when someone who wants to be there for me says don’t be in a negative attitude and that they care so much that I can’t push them away because they show that they care.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/11/concentrating-on-covid-challenges-and-true-allies/
Problem Solving is a skill of autistic adults that has to be learned if one chooses to be independent. From the moment we decide to get up to the moment we go to bed, people work on problem solving.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/10/adulting-problem-solving/
It has been a mostly good week, although I didn’t get the exercise in that I wanted to. Regardless, I have had a more positive outlook on life and less of a negative outlook on my life, although it isn’t perfect I realize that I have to be thankful for all the positive things I have in my life instead of magnifying on the negative aspects, because in reality, the positives outweigh the negatives.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/06/not-focusing-on-the-negative/
Another week has come and gone since my last check in. I haven't disappointed you as 2.5 pounds just this week. In just six weeks I have lost 13.75 pounds. I have never in my almost fifteen-year journey at my local weight loss support group I’ve lost that amount of weight on a continual basis
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/05/wellness-wednesday-keep-the-balll-rolling/
Change as it is for anyone, is especially hard for me, but once I putter through it, I feel I will be fine. I know that it is good for me to be at the facility and once I am there, I will find something to keep me busy and will be fine with myself to the point it will look as if this whole worrying thing will be just a blimp of air.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/04/concentrating-on-covid-increased-capacities-increased-anxieties/
Over the past few months, I have been experiencing overmagnification of fears. A trait of autistics that we always may do something wrong and live in a constant state of fear and anxiety. This prevents us from being our true selves and always wondering if we are going to get in trouble for something that we will do something wrong.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/05/03/adulting-magnified-fear/
Twenty years ago, this week, I celebrated “graduating” from a residential treatment facility, or RTF. It felt like a group home, but if my parents didn’t want the best care for me, it could have resulted in me being placed in a group home for life because of my behaviors.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/29/there-was-a-time-i-thought-i-would-be-in-a-group-home-for-life/
Many times all that an autistic person wants is to for someone to understand them and accept them for who they are.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/28/wellness-wednesday-connections/
Well, we are in that homestretch where I promised where the services delivered to me would gravitate to a more in-person approach rather than being hybrid or virtually delivered as they mostly have been the past 13 months or so.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/27/concentrating-on-covid-am-i-safe-to-return/
A few weeks ago, I took a “mental health day”, but it was anything but that. I performed my volunteer responsibilities by attending a few meetings without a regard for what it was truly meant to be used for.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/26/adulting-time-for-you/
Autism is a spectrum, meaning it has a spectrum of features. One of these is communication. One cannot have the ability to communicate without assistance and likewise individuals such as myself can be very articulate, however we are all classified as being autistic. Although it may not seem as such, I sometimes struggle with communicating socially with the less articulate because I am indeed socially awkward.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/22/tone-it-down/
This week has been monumental in the wellness realm. I did have a loss at my weekly support group, a total of three weeks at this point. I am beginning to realize that just like self-sabotaging before weigh-ins, I cannot set high expectations as the number on the scale is just that, a number and what it is, it is. Walking has been good to improve this number as well as being mindful of my calorie intake and drink consumption.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/21/wellness-wednesday-keeping-encouraged/
Today, in preparation of writing this article, I came across a photo from a year ago when universal masking was mandated in Pennsylvania.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/20/concentrating-on-covid-the-fabric-of-our-lives/
This week for my adulting post, I am going to write about grooming an autistic self. For autistics, we can either excel or lack in this regard. Sometimes it is a sensory issue, however if one lacks the willingness to clean one self, then they are pictured as lazy or unwilling to do so.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/19/adulting-grooming/
Everyone gets angry. Without a doubt. But for autistics, we are prone to eruptions of anger. This is because we have a light switch and we see no “gray areas”. We see it as an “all or nothing” approach where compromise isn’t was easily seen by autistic brains as clearly as it is in the neurotypical brain.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/15/anger-in-autistic-adults/
If anyone has been following my Wellness Wednesday posts, they have realized that I have begun the health train again. It had seemed that by not combining eating healthier and being active are detriments of getting the fires burning and keeping the momentum going..
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/14/wellness-wednesday-keep-the-fires-burning/
In the meantime, be cautious, wear a mask, practice social or physical distancing and balance your virtual time with some rest and relaxation.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/13/concentrating-on-covid-too-soon-to-let-our-guard-down/
Being independent has proved to me that there’s times of boredom, loneliness and isolation as many are experiencing right now due to the ongoing pandemic.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/12/adulting-boredom-loneliness-and-isolation/
Having received my second dose of the COVID-19 Vaccine and while I am not completely certain that the end is in sight, although there is a glimpse in the eyes of many of an end being there. As being independent again for almost six months, mostly under a heightened state of staying at home and remaining idle. While it is recommended to wait the two weeks to assure Immunity, I need to gradually work at getting out of the little burrow that I have dug myself into.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/08/concentrating-on-covid-setting-priorities-to-return-to-the-community/
This past week I worked hard at getting all the weight off by portion control, more water, tracking food and personal weigh ins each morning consistently with the Fitbit on my phone and not staying idle too much. Even with Easter, it wasn't nothing that I couldn't handle.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/07/wellness-wednesday-small-goals-matter/
Writing this on Easter Sunday because I am bored really puts things into perspective how fortunate I am. We are over a year into the pandemic, when work and my day program shut their doors for almost three months. While some of the activity during that initial time was completed virtually and I along with the majority of the world was introduced to virtual platforms like Zoom, Nothing replaces the old-fashioned way of meeting person to person in methods such as day programs and part-time employment like I do.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/06/putting-it-in-perspective/
Independence. The dream of many autistics. Yes, that is a goal for many as many still live with their family, some by choice, some because they need care that cannot otherwise not be provided without support. But what if you could get support, would you move out on your own. For a moment last year, I wondered if I needed support and this has caught my eye again as I seen a Facebook post of where additional supports are needed in this realm and the inability to keep a home.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/05/adulting-independence-and-supports/
Each April, we celebrate Autism Acceptance Month to spread awareness, promote acceptance, and ignite change.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/04/01/today-begins-autism-acceptance-month/
This week has been a tough spot in the wellness journey. I had performed exceptionally well over the past week by exercising regularly and trying my best to cook at home yet within an hour of attending the weekly weigh-in, I sabotage the work I invested.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/31/wellness-wednesday-when-its-so-hard-to-give-up-but-you-know-that-you-cant/
We have been in a national pandemic for over a year now. Of anything I have experienced in the year and that has been a lot, it has taught me to be resilient. I have continually been retooling myself as far as mind, body and spirit to be well physically and mentally.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/30/concentrating-on-covid-a-lesson-in-resiliency/
Growing up, I have had too many experiences to count about being disapppointed. Back then I was never one to "take it like a man" and accept was handed down to me. It has taken many years of tolerance, acceptance, adaption and accommodation to get where I am today, especially when handling disappointment
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/29/adulting-disappointment/
We have to sometimes have the encouragement that we have to set our own standards of what that needs to be and ourselves have the inner confidence that it is indeed what can be acceptable and what you can accomplish.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/25/building-confidence/
So as a continuum of yesterday’s post on having the inertia to activate we are gradually beginning to do things pre-COVID. Although we did things like walk during COVID, we have experienced the winter blues and have been stuck at times under the frigid northeast winters by being at home in Zoom and other meetings throughout the day.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/24/wellness-wednesday-stepping-safe-back-into-the-community/
The spring weather has come out in full swing recently. It’s Daylight longer (the Pennsylvania General Assembly is considering extending Daylight Saving Time the entire year (I’m crossing my fingers this happens!) The temperature is getting pretty seasonable. Yet, I have experienced inertia of becoming active and stepping back safe into the community. For over a year, I have secluded myself mostly in my very own limited bubble.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/23/concentrating-on-covid-intertia-to-activate/
Oftentimes, in the modes of social media the journey of autistics. We see their milestones and their downfalls. We also oftentimes want to compare their struggles to our own. We wonder why we are continuing to do the things that we are doing, yet they have since moved on and out of our sight leaving us in the dust. This is when we as autistics and neurotypicals alike must remember that one’s life journey is simply theirs.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/22/adulting-someone-elses-journey-is-not-yours/
Having friends outside of family in the past few years has taught me to set my own boundaries in what I share, how I respond to others, standing up for my personal needs and values along with respecting myself.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/18/mental-health-and-friends/
As we are hitting the point in of the one-year anniversary of the COVID-19 Pandemic, those that have had a wide variety of changes from what is normal must realize the need for self-care.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/17/wellness-wednesday-we-must-continue-to-take-care-of-ourselves/
Today marks one year since many, including myself entered a world of unknown. However, as we hit the one-year anniversary as the world we live in change dramatically, mental health in everyone is declining,
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/16/concentrating-on-covid-one-year/
While being an autistic can have its talents like being organized and ritual, we have to remember that this being autistic is of spectrum manner and as such not everyone operates that way. Sometimes we can be the complete opposite.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/15/adulting-we-dont-see-it/
As I shared on the majority of my social media channels the other day, I received my first dose of the COVID-19 Vaccine. While many who are in desiring to be back to normal life long for a vaccine, they are often the ones to judge, “why do they get to get a vaccine compared to me?” The truth is, we all want to be on the race to herd immunity and yes like many things of life that may seem unfair, we don’t know the true story of why one is getting vaccinated.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/11/concentrating-on-covid-the-first-dose-judgement-free/
On March 10, 2010 I started a new endeavor as a Consumer Satisfaction Team Member. Although I didn’t know it, this job would require me to oftentimes interact with complete strangers. For several years, my work schedule was sporadic at best. I struggled with the days that I had to go to work because anxiety built up continually. Eventually I would become comfortable with my work, it would provide me additional opportunities and now is second nature for me.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/10/gainfully-employed-11-years-and-i-didnt-even-wan-t-to-work/
When evening comes, I realize that it is time to take my pills because I consciously look at that clock because that certain hour is nearing and I know it. A lot of times I think “What if I just skip this one time?” I am ashamed to admit that I’ve done it and while I spend the majority of the evening on a manic high because of my inability to sleep. I am often reminded how others see the ways I act in the coming days and then I know that I must medicate.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/09/to-go-off-the-past-is-tempting-but-i-am-reminded-of-how-it-makes-me/
So, this week partly I have been focusing on self-regulation. This topic has sparked an interest in me because I have been hearing about it from other advocates and their autistics have been doing this. I, being diagnosed over twenty years ago and now learning things on my own am discovering these terms as we go along. I had an epiphany of when and why I need to recognize when to self-regulate on a more constituent basis.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/08/adulting-self-regulation/
In the last few months since becoming independent again, I have noticed benchmarks that I continue to achieve as time progresses. While they may seem little to some, for me they can mean the world because it is proof that I can adult and know how to properly take care of myself. If there is any advice, I can give to anyone raising a autistic child, it simply is that knowledge is power. The more they know, the more sound their future will be.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/04/progress-is-progress/
Loving the sun, and just near a week and a half until Daylight Saving time begins here in the US, the sun is rising before I head out on the days I do and they sun is setting after six (finally). I also think with the snow melted and the clouds opening up some last week has cheered my mood, for the most part. Finally, I experienced a weekend where I didn’t shutdown a lot. Instead I was busy getting things done for once finally! However, I did spend a great deal of time hyper focused on my special interests and that consumed a lot of time, along with straightening up.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/03/wellness-wednesday-progress-is-progress/
As we are nearing a year anniversary of being under the pandemic, many I know are hitting a wall. It is when we are just tired. Tired of daunting the PPE, tired of following additional rules, just plain tired of everything. We, as in everyone want to be back to the way things were, so we can be happier and see a better time ahead.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/02/concentrating-on-covid-pros-and-cons/
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/03/01/adulting-motivation-to-adult-and-care-about-others/
What a difference a week will make, or a few days for that matter! While here in Southwestern Pennsylvania should be used to rough Februarys, we haven’t experienced them as continually snowy in many years. Being independent, along with being in a national pandemic makes it more unpleasant to experience. However, as I am writing this week’s wellness update, we are making changes to the betterment of my physical health. I am getting more sleep, and good steady sleep.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/24/wellness-wednesday-spring-on-the-horizon/
Likely you turn on the TV today and you hear about “the vaccine”. Like the many other orders and guidance from our leaders around the world and the United States, distribution is being done in a varied amount of methods, especially the latter. Furthermore, when you break it down by states, distribution plans are left up to either the state, county or other local governing board. This makes it very complicated and typically doesn’t have the same vaccination hierarchy.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/23/concentrating-on-covid-the-vaccine/
Being independent comes with a great deal of responsibility. When I left my last independent situation, I thought it would be some time before I would be on my own again, however an opportunity arrived. At times in recent weeks I questioned whether I made the smart decision of being independent again. However, I have came to the realization that I have indeed made the right decision and to not second guess it.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/22/adulting-true-independence/
This winter has been one for the books not only in here in Southwestern Pennsylvania, but across the United States as well as across the pond. For us here we have had weather that I haven’t experienced in almost a decade, at least of continuous pattern, add a National Health Emergency, and that tops the feeling of isolation even more. As I am writing this post, I feel with the citizens of Texas right now, as I do know what it is like to experience many winter events. Yes, I know you are not used to it and your government does not have the equipment necessary for restoring services. I too have at times been without life’s essentials
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/18/without-creature-comforts/
Well, another week has come by and it has been seriously a week of highs and lows. From experiencing a near meltdown about having to walk long distances in the local supercenter, to actually making changes to better my health and adapt portion control and seeing some weight come off, I am hoping that I am finally seeing the turn of the coin to the realization point that I cannot eat whatever I want just because I have the freedom to do so.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/17/wellness-wednesday-flipping-the-coin/
Today, marks 11 months of the United States classifying COVID-19 as a National Emergency. It has been a trying time for several of the world’s population, including autistics who abruptly and for many times several months have had their daily routines, something we thrive in be uprooted and a long sense of unknown. Then came the summer and fall that wasn’t really fun for many. Lastly, we have had a severe winter across much of the United States that has made many of us have increased cabin fever due to the necessity of staying indoors.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/16/concentrating-on-covid-advances/
It definitely has been a weekend. Accepting the fact that I need to lose weight and for real focus on it. If you recall, last week, I was in sort of a slump of Autistic Shutdown and experienced a phase of ordering delivery to my house a lot or getting takeout. This for a person of my size is a recipe for disaster. I need to focus on bettering my food palate so that I can become a healthier person in the long run. For many years as for many of the autistics, we tend to stick to the same foods. This can pose a challenge when sitting down to the tables as a family or with others where everyone is given the same meal. Yes, there has been debate over how this is managed. Some of today’s moms are doing a 30-day challenge of new foods. It is awesome to see them incorporate new foods into their diet. Yes, it may seem juvenile but as many in the autistic community can relate, we love when our autistics climb milestones, especially when it is something that makes one easier for one that cares for the autistic person.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/15/adulting-growing-and-experiencing-food-opportunities/
Dancing in the Dark is the eleventh and final track on Evolve. The song is not only the album’s closer, but it’s also one of the smoothest and most low-key songs the band has ever made. Dancing in the Dark serves as a mellow closer for the energetic, upbeat, and explosive album that is Evolve. The song is perhaps the most minimalistic on the album, with its sparse beat and its soft, bouncy instrumental. It also heavily features vocal effects over Dan’s voice, which was a controversial choice amongst many fans.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/14/how-imagine-dragons-dancing-in-the-dark-got-me-through-the-covid-19-lockdown/
This week on my blog we have been focusing on shutdown and sleep. Related to that is the necessary to sometimes for autistics to take a break and recharge our batteries. Sometimes we just have had a full palate of a day whether that is at the day program or working a job that consumes a great deal of our energy because of our sensory overload, attention to detail, the working of our keen minds, whatever it may be.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/11/not-because-i-want-to-but-because-i-have-to/
Sleep. Its one of the most common know ill effects of the autistic brain. Many autistics struggle with It continually through life. To find that perfect balance of sleep and liveliness is key and crucial to living. For many autistics sleep deprivation happens quite routinely mainly because we cannot get our information loaded brains to stop working after being in action for a lengthy period of time, or it just doesn’t have the ability to cease operations and shut down in the way a neurotypical person’s brain operates.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/10/wellness-wednesday-sleep-is-necessary-to-autistic-wellbeing/
I know that in writing this week about Autistic Shutout, I have found out that I am certainly not the only one experiencing these symptoms. Also, to be included is the autistic, neurodiverse and neurotypical individuals that are suffering because of the prolonged effects of being under the siege of a pandemic. The attitudes of everyone, the universal masking, the constant reminders to do all these things, for our youth this includes the inability to socialize physically with their peers, the same can be for adults who have no other physical connection to the outside world than the bubble that they are in,
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/09/concentrating-on-covid-its-effecting-everyone/
When a person experiences Autistic Shutdown, the best thing to do is to just let them get the rest they need. We as autistics have just been at times too overstimulated and just need a serious recharge of our inner selves. COVID and all the changes, restrictions that come with it have caused many autistics to experience more periods of autistic shutdown.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/08/adulting-handling-autistic-shutdown/
There has been a lot of discussion on the web about moms, specifically the moms of parents with special needs. These moms deserve all the credit they can get. They are usually the first one to step up to bat for their child and make sure that they get what they need, especially when they cannot be in their presence. They oftentimes want to make sure that they have their place in society and in the world. To their child they are seen as their source of knowledge and support and are sometimes considered their lifeline. So, when a major lifestyle change comes in their life as they become a senior citizen and enjoy the golden years, one can either be jealous or be supportive and caring.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/04/the-powerful-mom/
So, I don’t know if this is common with many in the autism community, but I am experiencing an heavy amount of the “Winter Blues.” A snowier winter, alongside with being isolated more due to COVID and snow cancellations has made me be in a more sleepy and down mood. While I am grateful for many things that I do have, I at times feel like I have no control of things and just want this pandemic to be over, but I know that we are getting there.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/03/wellness-wednesday-the-winter-blues/
We are nearing the 11th month of the COVID-19 Pandemic, it indeed has been a test on the autistic community by far. But one has to be thinking, what about all that screen time we spend online in virtual meetings, social media, completing work, and so forth? Many have been living in the virtual world in some capacity for almost 11 months now. It is getting to the point that many are virtually exhausted, and while some can excel at this, such as myself. In reality, it can be a detriment to our health, both mental and physical.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/02/concentrating-on-covid-zoomed-out/
First, I want to credit that I was inspired to write this upon a fellow autism blogger that touched on the subject. I personally have witnessed the victimization and trust be compromised in not only autistic individuals but individuals both with and out mental and neurological health conditions. It, along with the awareness of those that we as autistics do not know, must be given the proper skillset in learning just what is appropriate information to share with others and what is not. Also, we must be aware of what is a safe to do and what me be skeptical and may result in us being victims at a moment’s notice.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/02/01/adulting-having-trust/
I have been doing a lot of reflection this week on autism and the things I do to get by on a day to day basis. While certainly no one is perfect, nor is there one fix all to todays societal problems with autistic individuals such as myself, I personally feel like one thing is in common with us…We just want to fit in.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/28/we-just-want-to-fit-in/
I know I sound like a broken record when I say that my post for Wednesday is late, but I’ve heard many great things this week and have too discovered many great things. One of those things is that wellness doesn’t just include our physical health, but it includes our mental and spiritual health too! We cannot be physically well without our mental health. I have said many times that Mental Health and Autism do correlate greatly. With that in mind I am going to spend this week on accepting out coping mechanisms.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/27/wellness-wednesday-accepting-our-coping-mechanisms/
Yesterday was one of those days when what could go wrong would go wrong. In a world when autistics such as myself just want the things we need to work perform it function without any issues, especially in a pandemic internet dependent world where we rely on the power of a fiber optic line to convey our technological needs and to be also in an environment where the noise is minimal and we can perform what we feel is normal functions with ease, but when these functions get hampered, they can cause a lot of frustration among autistics and others such as myself because we are narrow minded.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/26/concentrating-on-covid-when-things-dont-work/
So as I am getting adjusted to independent life again, it has made me realize the need to do things that just are sort of unspoken and what should be routine. For many autistics, including myself, this presents challenges. It is just not on our “radar” and at times our hyper focuses are geared far away from what must be done and rather what interests us.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/25/adulting-the-assumable/
Most of 2020 and gearing into 2021 we have had a great deal of change to routine. To the autistic community, this can be perceived as a nightmare. I hear of many individuals and families struggling and not being able to do the things that they can do pre-COVID. It stresses many and leads to autistic burnout, meltdown and shutdown. There are many that learn to adapt, however some have the inability to do that.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/21/adhering-to-abrupt-changes-in-routine/
Again, sorry for the late delivery of today’s blog pot and I am sorry to again bring up something COVID related, however, I personally feel that it is important subject to bring up. As we are beginning to see a little bit of light in the tunnel of the Coronavirus Pandemic, we are just passing the tenth month of it. While I might consider a little bit of myself privileged to be able to go out, I personally know that many others cannot and that they are struggling far worse than I and the others that can leave their homes.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/20/wellness-wednesday-covid-fatigue/
As we come off of a national holiday, it was a somewhat different schedule for me. The day program was open on Saturday and we were open on a different schedule on Monday because of the holiday. As many know, these changes, while planned can throw someone such as myself off a bit. While I though yesterday was Friday, I am slowly realizing this morning as I am writing this that it is Tuesday.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/19/concentrating-on-covid-motivation-to-do-the-expected/
This past week, I seen a post on Social Media by a fellow autism page that Sensory Overload does continue to adulthood. I am so proud that they have brought this up because I have been experiencing this quite a bit lately. I don’t know if it is the COVID or that I have been attending a lot of events lately where music is involved. Oftentimes, I feel as if this topic has to be an integral part of autism acceptance and awareness as if not properly managed by the autistic or it is managed with a unique coping mechanism, it can result in a perplexed perception of what an autistic person does.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/18/adulting-sensory-overload/
This week has been one of those weeks. What has happened has. I personally experienced when things don’t go our way and how we as autistics have to improvise and make do with the moments and resources we have. We have to “grin and bear” with reality and face what we sometimes find as unpleasant. Especially in a time of pandemic, this can be hard on the autistic person and can pose challenges for them and those that care for them.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/14/when-things-just-dont-work/
So, another week on the wellness challenge has come and gone. Yes, I have somewhat laid down on the drinks, but not at the level I liked. I was without bottled water on the weekend and didn’t get to the grocery store until Sunday, I had a grocery order today where I ordered, but got a 12-pack to get by. Yes, I could drink out of the tap, but that requires effort that might be made into an excuse of not doing it when you can put bottles of water in the refrigerator, thus being easily accessible. Another part of this is making sure that you (I) are drinking water and not having soda in excess.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/13/wellness-wednesday-when-you-want-to-cry-but-cant/
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/12/concentrating-on-covid-the-imperialization-of-music-to-cope/
Yes, COVID might have uprooted our routines as an autistic community but it certainly can’t stop us from having what we need or want to do. If you asked me six months ago that I would be getting back on my feet in five, I would second-guess every thought you would give me but it happened, during COVID.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/11/adulting-value-self-worth-and-non-conformity/
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/07/why-do-we-as-autistics-do-the-things-we-do/
First of all, to fill the void of free time during the COVID Pandemic, I have decided to start the new year by bringing back the Wellness Wednesday series that I started and never finished earlier this year. My Weekly feature will now be released on Thursday as a result of this change. Here’s to a good new year.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/06/wellness-wednesday-gratitude-goals-and-addiction/
Well, as we enter 2021, we are still fighting COVID-19. Yes, we have a vaccine but we still have a way to go until we even enter our way out of the woods. We may not be there totally yet, but some glimpse of light is working its way in to the eye of the world. However, there is the need to know that people are hurting and at least the US Government gave it and businesses around the world a shot in the economy. Many will say they are unhappy with the amount but there is little we can do. Many say that because one sole senator wanted his way the attempts to raise the amount American taxpayers received this round was over three times less than the President wanted it to be. However, this is the way the laws of our land work and their ways work. We as constituents have to accept the help that is given to us.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/05/concentrating-on-covid-not-giving-up-on-our-dreams/
Criticism, Everyone’s susceptible to it. But for the neurodivergent such as myself, it can be taken with such seriousness and heightened since that you are the worst person in the world. It may hold some merit that it was your fault and that some or all of those particular things may need to be worked on, therefore we take everything oftentimes as if things are wrong with everything in the world. Sometimes, however we turn a blind eye to the opposing view of the story and that what the other person has to say about you isn’t necessarily true and makes people feel like they are in the wrong when they are not.
This episode is also available as a blog post: http://dustinsdynastyusa.com/2021/01/04/adulting-accepting-criticism/