At times, it can be difficult to understand the challenges that being autistic can bring. This is especially true when navigating a world that is often not built to our needs. It can be challenging to accept the necessity of taking time with transitions. Rest time is also essential when it comes to navigating life. Life has gone on. I have accepted that it is important to accept life as it is. Rest time is necessary for people who have challenges navigating life.

Growing up not being knowledgeable about autism did not help with the insight that I had at the time. After school, I often did other things like attending doctors’ appointments. These activities were things my parents had to do because they both worked most of my childhood. Many times, these activities were scheduled after school. School brought on its own set of challenges. At times, I bottled up what I was experiencing there. I couldn’t tell anyone what I was going through or have my needs met until I got home. Then, I was expected to do something that or not have been enjoyable. It was a lot to handle.

I can’t blame my parents for what I had to go through. They needed to make a living and did not have the luxury of being at home most often. Later, I had the privilege of my father being retired. He took me to therapies and appointments after my time in residential care. He was also capable of taking me to high school activities from time to time. I never expressed it. I was truly grateful for him stepping up to the plate. Our dynamic was estranged most of my life.

He continued in the role. I navigated life after high school. Many times, he drove over the mountains to take me to and from school. He also extended himself for many years after that well into my mother’s retirement a few years ago. Regardless, I did not personally understand the exhaustion from all the energy expended. These are things that come naturally to many who do not face challenges. Just like anyone else facing challenges, taking rest after doing exhaustive things is a natural part of life.

For the longest time, I had seen the need to rest as a sign of weakness. Others did not understand the stress that comes with doing things that seem simple. These tasks are overwhelming because of the challenges that they bring. This is a result of being autistic and having other co-occurring challenges. Slowly, I am accepting that it is perfectly normal to have the necessary rest time. This is especially true after weekday activities. Doing exhaustive activities takes a lot out of me. It is part of who I am and while it is not an excuse, I can’t see it as such. Instead, it is part of living life to the best of my ability.

Regardless, I have realized that rest time is vital. It is one of the most important things I have accepted as a necessary wellness tool. This acceptance helps my life be the best it can be. It is nothing to be ashamed of needing. Accepting it is like accepting my other challenges in life. It is also a part of what my challenges bring to the table.