MATTIE’S STORY

Mattie is an autistic female, she is 15 years old and has been involved in our Mental Health and Autism Project.

“I received my autism diagnosis 2 weeks before P7. I found school to be really challenging, and I wish people could be more accepting of other peoples differences. It would make a big difference if everyone took the time to understand more about autism. Autism is completely unique to everyone. We’re constantly changing ourselves to fit into a world that wasn’t really made for us, so it would be nice not to feel that pressure anymore.

I have found Autism NI’s Mental Health and Autism Project very helpful and beneficial to me. I’ve learnt a lot from their Life Skills Officer, Victoria, and I really enjoy our sessions together. She has shown me different ways to cope in situations when my anxiety is high, such as using sour sweets or ice as a distraction.

Victoria is amazing and the skills she has taught me have made a massive difference.”

Autism NI’s Mental Health and Autism Project service offers one to one support to young people aged 11-18, and aims to increase confidence, self-esteem, and emotional well-being of participants.

Each participant will receive 8 – 12 weeks of tailored bespoke early intervention, on issues they have identified with a view to increasing confidence, self-esteem and emotional well-being. 

For more information please visit, www.autismni.org/mental-health-and-autism-project-1