End of the use of the name Aspergers

[annominous]

I prefer autistic. I was diagnosed with 'autistic spectrum disorder' in Australia and not Asperger's. There are some times I am very 'low functioning' and other times I am very 'high functioning'. I don't like functional labels, but that's just me.

 

[JDartistic]

I've been told the name Aspergers Syndrome is being dropped in favor of the mure universal High Functioning Autism. Is this true?

This is a good point & I asked about it in another thread I started.

What I was told was that HF Autistic (my diagnosis) was different from Asperger's bc we are less social & actually prefer isolation. I was told that Aspies tend to want connection but autistics do not.

I'm still confused by it. Perhaps it's the autistic scale - lower is more social & higher is less social? Im just guessing here...

 

[AsheSkyler]

I'm very fond of "autistic personality disorder" rather than the implications of "your whole head is busted" that comes with the other labels.

 

[Progster]

This is a good point & I asked about it in another thread I started.

What I was told was that HF Autistic (my diagnosis) was different from Asperger's bc we are less social & actually prefer isolation. I was told that Aspies tend to want connection but autistics do not.

I'm still confused by it. Perhaps it's the autistic scale - lower is more social & higher is less social? Im just guessing here...

I think it's possible to to want connection, but still want to be alone, that is, not be in the physical presence of another person. Many people with HFA or even classic autism seek interaction with others online, join forums, have FB accounts, etc. I also think a distinction should be made between male and female traits. Generally speaking, females on the spectrum are more likely to seek social contact, want to have friends, relationships, etc. I know a person with HFA as opposed to AS, and she definitely wants to have friends. The desire to be social can vary a lot in both groups. Many people with HFA have greater difficulties with sensory integration and speech delays, which is also defining factor.

 

[Spiller]

This is a good point & I asked about it in another thread I started.

What I was told was that HF Autistic (my diagnosis) was different from Asperger's bc we are less social & actually prefer isolation. I was told that Aspies tend to want connection but autistics do not.

I'm still confused by it. Perhaps it's the autistic scale - lower is more social & higher is less social? Im just guessing here...

You also have to bear in mind that individual psychologists, psychiatrists and therapists have their own personal interpretation, understanding and experience of what constitutes Autism in general and what defines AS and ASD separately.. I've had this specialist tell me I'm 'normal', while that on says my AS is obvious.
I personally think, given that the continuum is made up of many traits, the only difference between AS and ASD is in which traits we as individuals have.. therefore, there's no real difference, other than early learning delays maybe, at all.

 

[JDartistic]

I think it's like every other mental challenge. There are different degrees. For example, I have a friend with OCD so bad, he never touched anything. His home has never been cleaned. He refuses medication. He goes to group therapy wrapped up in rags so nothing touches his skin. Not all OCDs are that extreme. I think it's the same for us. I pass as normal except when I'm living with someone. I don't do that anymore...but my point is that these labels don't mean anything. It's how we see ourselves.

 

[Nitro]

I am going to put this out there...There are no set rules for any autism spectrum disorder. It would be impossible to write an instruction manual that is a one size fits all. To try to fit into a mould that someone else wrote would be the same as trying to finish a puzzle with a hammer...yes,the piece might appear to go in properly at first,but the puzzle will have flaws when it is finished

 

[RebelSaintofNOLA]

From my experience, I do not have a defined form of autism, but seem to posses autistic traits. I have been diagnosed with a personality disorder with high anxiety as a result of a series of traumatic events in my development in late childhood and adolescence. I don't think science should seek so much as to define something with such a broad impact so narrowly. It can be detrimental to the recovery and development of the individual. I think an individual that has so many different characteristics should be told they are different, but in a better light that doesn't seem to be so negative. It can be very detrimental to the psyche of such an individual, especially when feeling different from the norm. In my honest opinion, we should celebrate being different from the norm. Average at this day and age is not too great. I relish in the fact that my odd obsessions aren't normal. Reality tv and Twitter are normal now. Doctors should focus less on a defined diagnosis and spend more time helping the individual to best understand themselves and their weaknesses. By evaluating the weaknesses, they can play to the strengths of such an individual of higher intelligence. The ability to teach and develop oneself so easily should be utilized to make a more well-rounded individual with all the right tools to succeed. I know if I don't understand something about myself, I spend countless hours reading and researching it until I gain a full understanding of what it is and what I must do to mold it to define the best version of myself. It's as though to say disorder is an injustice to the fact that it is very much a "superpower". Are we the mutants? Are we the superhumans? Has nature selected us for mutation into a much higher functioning human with a further bridge of right and left brain? I would love to think so.

 

[Keith]

Strange you say Aspies need to be alone, since I always have to report whatever is on my mind. I'm a very social person, although I do like to be alone often.

I'm a volunteer at our local library (although I haven't been there in months). When I help check-in books, it makes me feel comfortable talking to other volunteers or staff. However, they don't like this as it's distracting. Another thing I do is operate disc-cleaning a machine in a small room where they keep material in need of serious attention. Perhaps 95% of the time at least I am alone in the room, so I can be alone with my thoughts and wander about the room while the machine cleans the disc or the DVD or CD plays.

 

[JDartistic]

I think it's possible to to want connection, but still want to be alone, that is, not be in the physical presence of another person. Many people with HFA or even classic autism seek interaction with others online, join forums, have FB accounts, etc. I also think a distinction should be made between male and female traits. Generally speaking, females on the spectrum are more likely to seek social contact, want to have friends, relationships, etc. I know a person with HFA as opposed to AS, and she definitely wants to have friends. The desire to be social can vary a lot in both groups. Many people with HFA have greater difficulties with sensory integration and speech delays, which is also defining factor.

I think it's hard to define.
Like I've isolated for 2 years now but am forcing myself out cuz I think it's not healthy. Before the 2 years, I was married for 7....but before that, I isolated for 15 years! (It's easier for me to be alone cuz the grief of losing is horrendous for me & I can't cope well...so I now choose to be alone forever!)

Ugh. Complicated!

PS I'm a female & still want to be alone! Think: Greta Garbo!

 

[Progster]

I think it's hard to define.
Like I've isolated for 2 years now but am forcing myself out cuz I think it's not healthy. Before the 2 years, I was married for 7....but before that, I isolated for 15 years! (It's easier for me to be alone cuz the grief of losing is horrendous for me & I can't cope well...so I now choose to be alone forever!)

Ugh. Complicated!

PS I'm a female & still want to be alone! Think: Greta Garbo!

Yes, the desire to socialise can very a lot according to individual circumstances as much as where you are on the spectrum. When I was younger my desire to have friends and social contacts was greater than it is today, though I was far from a social butterfly. Now that I'm older and especially since I had a burnout I rarely feel the desire to have social contacts and I these are mainly restricted to Christmas, Easter, etc.

 

[RebelSaintofNOLA]

From what I know about myself, I tend to over analyze those family moments. It is for good reason. I haven't accomplished much while all my cousins have done great things. I'm just the poor baby black sheep. I make up dialogue that could happen and worry whether I will be judged. It's like a perpetual loop of trying to never be caught off guard. It's easier to just stay at home than to have a possible confrontation.

 

[Douglas_MacNeill]

I've been told the name Aspergers Syndrome is being dropped in favor of the mure universal High Functioning Autism. Is this true?

The DSM-5 (Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder, 5th Edition) has indeed dropped
the term Asperger's syndrome in favour of broadening the autisms into a diagnosis of Autism
Spectrum Disorder. I'm less sure that the term High-Functioning Autism has gained acceptance
yet.

 

[Tom]

They are not sure what it is, much less what to call it. I'll stick with old Hans who identified it first, until they have really figured it out differently.

 

[RebelSaintofNOLA]

I find it interesting that those who suffer from autism spectrum disorders have complications with socializing but tend to do profoundly well in other areas. It seems as though the human brain is evolving to function at a greater potential. With evolution though, the selective process has its ups and downs. It seems as though the brain is trying to rewire itself. As humans, we are the most adaptive species on the planet. Perseverance is our strongest asset. Early humans literally ran their prey to death. This takes a great deal of effort and perseverance. People with autism should accept their difference and strive to use their learning capabilities to bridge the gap between themselves and societies demands. One thing I think could help is research into the effects of canabadiol on the brain. I believe a concentrated form free of THC could really help this process. It triggers dopamine production and reception. A lack of dopamine can cause anxiety and its cascading effects. It would break down the barrier between the individual and the outside world, which seems to be the biggest problem facing autism. I think, in generations to come, we will see a new form of human that utilizes much more if its brain power than ever before. Autism is the first signs of this process. I find it very intriguing that there is a theory of linkage between Neanderthal genetics and autism. Maybe our close cousins are the link to a better hybrid. There will be a great need for a more intellectual species when nature eventually resets itself.

 

[Spiller]

One thing I think could help is research into the effects of canabadiol on the brain. I believe a concentrated form free of THC could really help this process. It triggers dopamine production and reception. A lack of dopamine can cause anxiety and its cascading effects. It would break down he barrier between the individual and the outside world, which seems to be the biggest problem facing autism.

I've been experimenting with THC and CBD for a few years and find a 50:50 ratio of two strains, one high in THC, the other in CBD, both in tincture form, quite effective for anxiety and depression.. THC actually encourages production of serotonin.

 

[RebelSaintofNOLA]

I've been experimenting with THC and CBD for a few years and find a 50:50 ratio of two strains, one high in THC, the other in CBD, both in tincture form, quite effective for anxiety and depression.. THC actually encourages production of serotonin.

I just don't like the schizophrenic tendencies that come from THC. I am not in a state where access to controlled marijuana is available. I have given it up do to the fact you never know what you are getting on the black market. Sour diesel was my favorite. From my research, there have been hybrids made from it with high CBD and low THC. Have you tried any of the sort? THC has been proven to have detrimental long term effects on the brain which is why I would think pharmaceuticals would be best for serotonin levels. CBD has a protective effect on neurons and its pathology. I can see a great breakthrough in medicine once we tear down the societal barriers placed on a very harmless and beneficial natural remedy used by cultures for centuries. It could be very beneficial to the autistic and anxiety disorder community. We just have to wait.

 

[Spiller]

I just don't like the schizophrenic tendencies that come from THC. I am not in a state where access to controlled marijuana is available. I have given it up do to the fact you never know what you are getting on the black market. Sour diesel was my favorite. From my research, there have been hybrids made from it with high CBD and low THC. Have you tried any of the sort? THC has been proven to have detrimental long term effects on the brain which is why I would think pharmaceuticals would be best for serotonin levels. CBD has a protective effect on neurons and its pathology. I can see a great breakthrough in medicine once we tear down the societal barriers placed on a very harmless and beneficial natural remedy used by cultures for centuries. It could be very beneficial to the autistic and anxiety disorder community. We just have to wait.

I looked into the studies done on the harmful effects of the THC rich super-skunk strains produced for the black market and even the most recent UK study still indicates only that there may be a link between constant use of these by 'teens and psychotic tendencies. That study has since been grossly misquoted by professional people who haven't looked at the results themselves.
Most of the results actually indicate no psychosis link and even show improvements in academic grades amongst casual (rather than substance abusive) users.. the UK government, which funded the study, appears to be simply trying to force a bias against legalisation by repeating statistical analyses of portions of the same results to force the opinion it wants made public.
I use Medihaze (10% CBD) and Skunkhaze (12% THC) from the CBD Crew: Varieties | CBD Crew, though my supply is limited, but it goes a long way in tincture form; basically I get to see how I am with and without it too, which is good for experimental purposes, though not so good for the depression and anxiety. I've tried several strains over the years and I genuinely find that THC and CBD work best together; either alone is not as effective. I find it also greatly reduces the frequency of meltdowns and burnouts.
I completely agree on the beneficial effects of this herb, I bet we didn't have a fraction of the health conditions that exist now before it was made illegal in the '30's..

 

[RebelSaintofNOLA]

I looked into the studies done on the harmful effects of the THC rich super-skunk strains produced for the black market and even the most recent UK study still indicates only that there may be a link between constant use of these by 'teens and psychotic tendencies. That study has since been grossly misquoted by professional people who haven't looked at the results themselves.
Most of the results actually indicate no psychosis link and even show improvements in academic grades amongst casual (rather than substance abusive) users.. the UK government, which funded the study, appears to be simply trying to force a bias against legalisation by repeating statistical analyses of portions of the same results to force the opinion it wants made public.
I use Medihaze (10% CBD) and Skunkhaze (12% THC) from the CBD Crew: Varieties | CBD Crew, though my supply is limited, but it goes a long way in tincture form; basically I get to see how I am with and without it too, which is good for experimental purposes, though not so good for the depression and anxiety. I've tried several strains over the years and I genuinely find that THC and CBD work best together; either alone is not as effective. I find it also greatly reduces the frequency of meltdowns and burnouts.
I completely agree on the beneficial effects of this herb, I bet we didn't have a fraction of the health conditions that exist now before it was made illegal in the '30's..

You seem very knowledgable in the matter. Anything can be abused and the old saying anything is good in moderation is true. The Druids practiced spirituality with herbs. I think they were placed here to help the spirit and reconnect us to the idea that we exist beyond this realm. I believe we live in a duality of the spirit and the physical manifestation of it. The physical being is limited to the realm for which we exist and is predetermined by our genetic makeup. It is this uniqueness that our spirit is allowed free will to chose a lifetime. How we handle our experiences and feelings is completely up to us. It is though we live in an open world RPG from which our spirit chose our character and all that applies to it. Maybe our spirit chose certain characteristics to best suit our spiritual nature. It may cause hardship and suffering but it is up to us to long for something more and gain understanding of our environment to manipulate it that we may flourish. Back to the subject of the thread, I would like to see the definition change as to lessen the limitations on the individual so they may not feel crippled. I believe everyone should seek to find the beauty that lies within and rejoice in their individuality so that they may live a life full of love and understanding within themselves. We cannot be whole until we find ourselves, our spirit. The part of each us that makes us unique and beautiful. It is by avoiding and neglecting our spirit that we begin to punish and judge ourselves because we place our self worth on the values of society and the realm of this existence. We commit the worst of fallacies when we judge ourselves and deface our self image because we feel as though we are not normal. Normal is just an idealistic principle to inhibit individuality and keep us from working towards the collective good. This brings about all the sorrows and grievances of life. It is not what we were intended to do while in this realm. Please everyone, stop limiting yourselves to a medical diagnosis and understand the beauty of your uniqueness. Once you have done so, you will begin your trek to your purpose in life. No one knows that purpose for yourself. It is through self reflection and research that we find purpose, and it should be done without judgement or guilt. Only look to the past as a ruler to gauge your current situation. Only look to the future to plot your course and see your destination. Live today understanding the two and trust in yourself to find a way just as the great explorers of the past discovered new lands and truths. We are linked together just as atoms make molecules, molecules make cells, cells make tissue, tissues make organs, organs make systems, systems make the individual, and the individual makes a collective known as humanity. We are all linked by our emotions and feelings. It is what makes us human and to deny the fact that we are all here to work together to make the collective is to deny our purpose. It is easily observable at the cellular level. Cells can become cancerous and spread ill intention for the organism. Specific T cells will seek to destroy those cells who are preventing the well being of the organism. Apoptosis, cell mediated death, occurs randomly when stressors prove too much for the cell to flourish. It is the cells that exhibit the strongest traits that reproduce the same strong genetics. It is the most adaptive that strive. They all start of as stem cells until they are specifically engineered to fit a need. We are merely stem cells until we decide where we fit best and will most strongly exhibit our traits given our genetic coding. I will now step down off my soap box but not without one final sentence. Please, do not allow a definition of your characteristics define you; define yourself from within your own perspective because it is the only thing we truly posses, the self.

 

[IrishAspie]

I

My greatest apprehension over this particular subject.

That the real motivations behind this "transition" may be fiscal rather than medical in nature.

In Ireland aspergers gets you no resources but if the diagnosis says ASD kids can get resource hours etc in school. Stupid but true.