Support for Autism

Top tips to support Autistic professionals

Ask for Direct Instructions

Ask for Direct Instructions

Ask for Direct Instructions

Ambiguity can cause stress or confusion for autistic professionals.
Clear instructions help you understand exactly what’s expected and reduce the need to guess or read between the lines.
Be honest with your colleagues and ask them to help you with simple, clear, and direct communications.

Routines Anchor your Day

Ask for Direct Instructions

Ask for Direct Instructions

Predictability reduces anxiety and makes it easier to manage sensory input.
Having a solid day structure can better prepare you for unexpected changes.
Take the time to give your days routine structure to give your brain space to focus on the work itself.

Communication Preferences

Ask for Direct Instructions

Communication Preferences

Some autistic people prefer written communication over spontaneous calls or small talk.
Take time to understand yourself and your communication needs and preferences.
Communicate your preferences to your colleagues to help control inputs and create barriers where necessary.
This can support the clarity of incoming communications and reduce social exhaustion.

Use Sensory Supports

Break Tasks Into Logical Steps

Communication Preferences

Workplaces can be overwhelming due to noise, lighting, or smells.
Unchecked sensory sensitivity can be the cause of distraction, discomfort and even burnout.
Ear defenders, sunglasses, screen filters, or a calm-down corner can reduce sensory stress and help you focus.

Break Tasks Into Logical Steps

Break Tasks Into Logical Steps

Break Tasks Into Logical Steps

Step-by-step instructions reduce uncertainty.
If you prefer structure and detail, this approach helps you build momentum and spot potential issues early.
When tackling a larger task, break it down into smaller tasks and work on each in a logical order.

Schedule Recovery Time

Break Tasks Into Logical Steps

Break Tasks Into Logical Steps

Social interactions or fast-paced meetings can be draining for many Autistic individuals.
Plan quiet time afterwards to reset and prevent burnout.
At work, consider scheduling administrative tasks or less socially demanding tasks after meetings or social events.

Use Visual Aids and Written Summaries

Use Visual Aids and Written Summaries

Use Visual Aids and Written Summaries

Autistic thinkers often process information visually or need more time to take things in.
Diagrams, bullet points, and summaries reduce overload and support understanding.

Let People Know What Helps You Thrive

Use Visual Aids and Written Summaries

Use Visual Aids and Written Summaries

Helping others to help you create the working dynamics that will allow you to thrive.
Proactively take time to understand what works for you.
Letting others know what helps ( like needing thinking time, a quiet workspace, or time to process questions) could help your colleagues support you effectively.

Rehearse or Script Challenging Interactions

Rehearse or Script Challenging Interactions

Rehearse or Script Challenging Interactions

Preparing what you want to say can reduce anxiety, especially in high-pressure or unpredictable situations like conflict or presentations.
Consider making notes of things you'd like to ask or convey in challenging meetings to help you.

Find an Ally Who Understands Your Needs

Rehearse or Script Challenging Interactions

Rehearse or Script Challenging Interactions

Feeling alone and isolated can be one of the biggest challenges of Autism in the workplace.
Having someone who gets it makes it easier to navigate tricky moments and advocate for your preferred ways of working.
This person could be a mentor, manager, or peer that you trust.