From Early Childhood Struggles to Personal Triumphs, Discover How Rachael Wiltshire Embraced Her Autism and Found Her Path
Early Interests and Social Challenges
Growing up, Rachael Wiltshire wasn’t quite like her peers. While other children her age were absorbed in magazines and activities typical for their age group, Rachael found herself drawn to imaginative play. Her unique interests extended to reading websites about tigers, history, natural disasters, and various types of animals. This divergence in interests often made it difficult for her to find common ground with other children. Fortunately, Rachael had a younger sister who became her primary social companion. Her early experiences were marked by frequent moves between New Zealand and Australia, adding layers of complexity to her school life and friendships.
Managing Anxiety and Mental Health
Rachael’s sense of stability was continually disrupted by family relocations, which exacerbated her struggles with anxiety and change. Certain rituals, such as checking the computer, heater, and doors, and organizing her stuffed animals, became her coping mechanisms. In her own way, Rachael preferred tidying her toys and arranging dollhouse furniture instead of engaging in traditional play scenarios. These habits, although peculiar to some, provided her with a sense of control and calm amid chaos.
Rachael’s anxiety significantly impacted her school life, leading to meltdowns and even affecting her eating habits. With the support of her family and specialized psychologists, her school schedule was adjusted post-diagnosis to better suit her needs. This intervention improved not just her school life, but also her overall mental health.
The Relief and Challenges of Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with autism at the age of 12 was a turning point for Rachael and her family. Finally, there was a reason behind the struggles, and with this understanding came a sense of relief. Her family now had the tools and resources to better support her, which included working closely with her school to make necessary changes to her academic environment. Though this diagnosis clarified many aspects of her life, it didn’t come without its challenges. In year 10, Rachael received a generalized anxiety disorder diagnosis, which necessitated new medication and further adjustments at school.
Rachael’s academic journey continued with adjustments to better accommodate her interests and challenges. For instance, she switched from in-person English classes to correspondence courses and chose to advance to year 12 French rather than sticking with year 11 French. These modifications not only made school life more manageable but also more engaging for her. Extracurricular activities like participating in a neuroscience competition and attending a science camp provided her with outlets to explore her varied interests and alleviate some of her anxiety.
Embracing Autism: Identity and Advocacy
Rachael has always seen autism as an integral part of her identity—a lens through which she understands her struggles and strengths. This self-acceptance propelled her into roles where she could help others. Today, she works for Altogether Autism, an organization that offers personalized support for autistic individuals and their families. By providing specialized information and training, Altogether Autism serves as a lifeline for many.
In addition to her work with Altogether Autism, Rachael is passionately involved in dance, tutoring, and hosting services at visitor centers. This variety of roles helps her manage her mental health by keeping her engaged and minimizing the risk of burnout. Rachael is also pursuing a master’s degree in intercultural communication and applied translation, demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning.
The Reality of Autistic Burnout and Coping Strategies
Autistic burnout is a relatively new but critical concept, with initial research emerging around 2019. It describes a state of extreme exhaustion, loss of skills, and heightened autistic traits due to the pressure of fitting in and navigating social complexities. Rachael recognizes these patterns in her own life, experiencing cyclical periods of anxiety and burnout. To manage this, she meticulously balances physical activities like dance with intellectually stimulating tasks like her academic pursuits.
Imagining an Inclusive Society
When discussing the ideal society, Rachael envisions one where structural accommodations are in place to allow autistic individuals to actively participate and contribute. Although acceptance and support would mitigate many issues, the intrinsic demands of a high-stress society would still make autistic burnout a reality for many. She values the lockdown experience, noting how spending 2-3 days a week at home allows her to decompress.
In conclusion, Rachael Wiltshire’s story is a testament to the power of understanding, adaptation, and advocacy. By embracing her autism and working diligently to create inclusive environments, she offers hope and guidance for others navigating similar paths. Her journey underscores the importance of self-acceptance, the need for systemic change, and the endless possibilities that arise when we tap into our unique strengths.
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