So you have autism: By Mark D. Sachnik

(Also read How We Can Help)
September 13, 1999

My name is Mark. I am 43 years old. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Texas at Dallas and am currently employed there as a buyer. I come from a loving family of 9 (6 sisters and 2 brothers). I enjoy bicycling, photography, travelling to small towns, and reading political and military history as well as natural sciences. I am active in my parish's chapter of the Knights of Columbus and currently the 2nd vice president of the Autism Society of Collin County. I am also an individual with autism who experienced numerous triumphs. I also faced and continue to face numerous challenges living in the community. To better meet these challenges, I have to some degree used these strategies and urge other individuals to think about this.

Some of these steps include the following:

1) The individual should realize he/she is different, not crazy.

2) Focus on self-actualization and goal setting.

3) Realize you are not going to have a wide circle of friends. It is best to develop long-term friendships with people who understand that you think differently from the "norm".

4) At the same token, be wary of those who will try to exploit you. This is where relying on family members and trusted friends for advice will really save you. They will help you "fill in the blanks" so to speak.

5) If you find it necessary to seek help from a neurologist or psychiatrist, make sure you bring a written medical history along. Even today, most doctors are not going to have experience working with high functioning people with autism. They will often assume you have some other disorder, prescribe inappropriate medication or treatment causing symptoms to worsen. ALWAYS SEEK A SECOND OPINION.

6) Join and actively participate in your local Autism Society. It will really benefit you, parents, professionals, and other individuals with autism. Also, get involved in other community activities and/or with your religious institution.

7) Take up one or more hobbies and pursue them with vengeance.

8) If you believe in God, realize that you like everyone else are created with uniqueness in his image blessed with unique talents. Develop your talents and focus in using them wisely.

9) When choosing a job or career, carefully evaluate how well you can fit in a given work environment.

10) Take up a sport or fitness activity, especially one that emphasizes development of coordination. Cycling, running, swimming,
Weight training, or some forms of martial arts is highly recommended. In some instances, a trainer or coach is appropriate.

These strategies have helped me meet some of the challenges of being an adult with autism. I either used them or had friends and family recommend them sometime in my life. This is the main focus of my presentation to various groups. The effectiveness of these strategies as well as other interventions and focuses depends on the individual and or caregiver. It does not in anyway replace appropriate physical or behavioral therapy.

Mark D. Sachnik
1st Vice Prestident
Autism Society of Collin County
An individual with autism
e-mail me at: sachnik@utdallas.edu.