Breaking the Silence

Addressing suicide risk in the Autism community

Dear Ohio Autism Community,


September marks National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness of this critical issue and offer support to those struggling. This month takes on particular significance for us in light of the recent tragedy involving an Autistic teen in Dayton while in police custody, which has been termed a suicide.


While the specifics of this case remain under investigation, it serves as a stark reminder of a harsh reality: individuals on the spectrum are more susceptible to suicidal thoughts and attempts than the general population. Alarming research from the Kennedy Krieger Institute suggests this risk is even higher for those with high IQs.  


You are Not Alone



This news can be overwhelming, but it's important to remember that you are not alone. As parents, caregivers, and advocates, we have a crucial role in supporting our loved ones. Here are some ways we can make a difference:


  • Open Communication: Foster a safe space where open communication thrives. Encourage your loved ones to share their feelings, positive or negative, without fear of judgment.
  • Active Listening: Be present and listen attentively when they confide in you.
  • Validate Their Feelings: Believe them when they express hopelessness or suicidal thoughts. Don't minimize their struggles.
  • Develop a Safety Plan: The 988 Lifeline website offers a crisis safety plan template designed for neurodivergence individuals. This can help individuals recognize and communicate their struggles.  


Seeking Help


Remember, you don't have to navigate this alone. Several resources are available to support your loved ones:

  • Mental Health Professionals: Consider seeking professional help. Medication or adjustments to existing prescriptions can be beneficial.
  • County Boards: Contact your local County Boards of Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health Services. They offer resources to improve daily life and manage overwhelming situations.
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: This free and confidential service is available 24/7 by dialing 988.  


The Autism Society of Ohio stands with you. We are here to offer support and resources. Together, we can create a safe and supportive environment where individuals with Autism feel empowered to seek help and find hope.


In solidarity,


Kathi Machle, President, Autism Society of Ohio


Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need someone to talk to. You can always email info@autismohio.org or call 614-495-7551. We are here to help!

Helpful Links


National Suicide Prevention Lifeline


Autism Society of America & 988 Lifeline Information


Crisis Text Line


Crisis supports for the autism community


8 Critical Measures to Counter Suicide


National Suicide Prevention Month (Facebook Live episode)


Warning Signs of Suicide for Autistic People


Autism Resource for Warning Signs of Suicide: Considerations for the Autism Community


Blueprint for Youth Suicide Prevention

FEATURED PROGRAMMING

Making a Splash


The Tri-County Autism Support Village celebrated summer with a fun-filled splash pad event, providing local families with a day of joy and connection in Delphos, Ohio. With funds covering the splash pad rental, food, and other supplies, the event was a great success, as captured in these lively photos from the day.



Autism Ohio's grant program made this event possible. We established the up to $750 grant opportunity to empower local initiatives and offer financial assistance to foster community-driven solutions in counties without direct coverage from one of our affiliate offices. 


If you want to establish a support group, organize seasonal events, or assist families in your community, our grant program is here to help! For more information, contact us at 614-495-7551 or email us at info@autismohio.org. Let's make a difference in the lives of individuals with Autism and their families across Ohio.


AUTISM SOCIETY NEAR ME

Adult Karaoke


Join us to sing the hits at the Adult Karaoke event in The Gem Room at On Par Entertainment in Bevercreek on September 14, 2024 from 4 to 6 PM. To reserve a spot, email asadayton@gmail.com with your name and age.

Webinar “Guardianship or Supportive Decision Making: Which is Right for You?"


Hosted in collaboration with OCALI, the webinar “Guardianship or Supportive Decision Making: Which is Right for You?” will take place on September 17, 2024, from 6:30 to 8 PM. Logan Philipps of Dublin-based Philipps and Graham, LLC will provide information to help you decide what you need to support your loved ones. Register here.

Outdoor Movie Night


Hosted in collaboration with Summit County Board of Developmental Disabilities, an outdoor movie night will take place at Chestnut Lodge in Sand Run Metro Park on September 20, 2024 at 7:30 PM. “Over the Hedge” will be the film selection. Register here.

Gather your family, friends, and colleagues and create a team!


Join the ASNO Autism Walk on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at Franklin Park Mall in Toledo, Ohio! This annual event raises vital funds to support ASNO’s mission, with 100% of the proceeds staying right here in Northwest Ohio to help fund local services and programs. Visit asno.org/register to sponsor the event, or sign up for the walk today!

RESOURCES

OCALI Offers Online Autism Training Program

OCALI's Autism Certification Center has created an innovative online video training program that provides practical information and skills, demonstrated with real-life examples, filmed in various settings, for those who interact with individuals with Autism. ASD Strategies in Action, free to all Ohioans, gives families and service providers tools to ensure they can effectively care for, support, educate, employ, or work with individuals on the spectrum from early childhood to young adulthood. Learn more in this virtual town hall. Check out all of OCALI’s resources here

SUPPORT OUR MISSION

Looking for a fun and impactful way to support those with Autism in your community or throughout the state? Consider hosting a third-party fundraising event! Whether you're an individual, business, or organization, there's something for everyone to get involved in. These events raise vital funds, spread awareness, promote inclusivity, and can significantly impact families living with Autism. 



Let's make a difference together!

LEARN MORE

ADVOCACY

ON CAPITAL HILL


ADVOCATE FOR CHANGE


Support Senate Bill 3528 to boost opportunities for disabled entrepreneurs


At the national level, the Autism Society is actively advocating for legislation that increases support for individuals with Autism. One key piece of legislation is Senate Bill 3528, the Supporting Disabled Entrepreneurs Act. This bill aims to provide essential short-term funding and resources to enhance support for small businesses owned by individuals with disabilities.


Key Provisions include:

  • Funding: Financial support to help stabilize and grow small businesses owned by disabled entrepreneurs.
  • Counseling: Access to expert advice and guidance to navigate business challenges.
  • Contracting Programs: Opportunities for contracts that can further support business growth.


ASA’s Legislative Advocacy group provides a fact sheet with more details on the legislation and asks you to consider using the action alert to message your Senators urging them to support this bill. 


Your voice matters in advocating for policies that support the Autism community. Stay informed and get involved!

EMPOWER YOUR VOICE


Ensure Your Loved One Can Vote


Voting is a powerful way for individuals with disabilities to advocate for themselves, and your loved one can be part of that voice in the upcoming election. If they will be 18 years old by November 5, 2024, they are eligible to vote, even if under guardianship, as long as they are registered by October 7, 2024.


How to Register:


  • Online Registration: Ohio Online Voter Registration makes it easy to register online. To do so, applicants need their Ohio driver’s license or state ID card number, name, address, date of birth, and the last four digits of their social security number.
  • Absentee Voting: If voting in person is challenging, they can request an absentee ballot from their county Board of Elections. Accessible absentee ballot information is available here.
  • County Board of Elections: Find contact details for your county’s Board of Elections here.
  • Voter Rights: For information on election laws and voter rights, visit Disability Rights Ohio.


Encourage your loved ones to make their voices heard this November!

Every vote counts.

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P.O. Box 545, Worthington, Ohio 43085

Email: info@autismohio.org 614.495.7551 autismohio.org