Restoring Balance in Difficult Times

About the Author

Brenda Dater, MSW, MPH, is the executive director at AANE and the author of “Parenting Without Panic.” Brenda is a mom of three, and her eldest is an Autistic transgender woman. Brenda has facilitated parent support groups for over 20 years and thoroughly enjoys creating an environment where parents can find the support, information, and the community they need.

Since January 20th, when the new administration took office in the United States, we have seen a marked increase in the deep worry people feel about their uncertain future. I, too, feel overwhelmed by the amount and pace of change and the corresponding chaos that ensues from executive orders, pronouncements, misinformation, and speculation about what this all means for our future.

AANE has always been a place where our community members can feel seen, heard, valued and supported for who they are. Autistic individuals often hold additional marginalized identities and face further barriers and burdens as a result. For those who are Autistic and also identify as LGBTQ+, BIPOC, women, or non-native English speakers, the current political climate has created compounded anxiety and stress.

For those of you feeling hopeless or fearful right now, please do not worry alone. Having trusted people to turn to and finding a community where you can share your concerns, feel understood, and build your resilience is especially critical in this moment. More than ever, I want you to know that AANE is here for you. We have support groups, online forums, and staff that provide consultations. AANE also offers support specifically for LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and Spanish speaking Autistic individuals, as well as women.

We also know that the services we supply can only go so far. Everyone is dealing with constant, unavoidable stress, and trying to figure out how to cope day in and day out can be challenging. Here’s what I have found helpful during times of uncertainty and crisis.

Ground Ourselves

It’s very hard not to have our thoughts spiral during this whirlwind of constantly changing information. It is important to remember to focus on the moment we are in. Paying attention to our breath, or what we see, hear, touch or smell, can help bring us back to this present moment. Deep breathing, short meditations, music, or spending time with a cherished pet can help us focus on what is right in front of us instead of unlimited scenarios for the unknown future. Grounding ourselves can be a helpful addition to diminish catastrophizing and persistent anxiety. 

Stay Connected to Others Doing Similar Work to AANE

AANE maintains strong relationships with other organizations doing similar work to us. No single organization can survive this type of upheaval alone. Through these connections, we keep up to date on how different executive orders impact nonprofit organizations like ours and our community members. We share resources amongst our organizations so that our services and supports are available to those who need them. We also partner with these organizations to make sure our community members’ voices are heard. We encourage everyone to keep up-to-date on how executive orders may be impacting our community. We are including links to these sources on our website, which includes actions you can take.

Focus on What We Can Impact

AANE’s focus has always been on providing needed services and supports to our community members. As needs evolve and change over time, we respond in kind. We receive over 500 calls/emails each month that let us know the concerns people are feeling and what help they need. Our Autistic teens and adults, family members, and professionals all inform what type of programs and services we provide. We will continue to offer safe and accessible support and social groups, coaching, one-to-one guidance, independent living support, and educational offerings. Not sure how AANE can help? Please call or fill out a contact us form to learn where to start. Now more than ever, please know that you are not alone.make a big difference. Together, you can build a family environment where everyone feels seen, valued, and supported.