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A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭

Hi there I’m new to the group I live in a suburb of Chicago, Il. My 14 has ASD and her dad passed away 1/3. She is having a really hard time understanding it all. I’m struggling to help her. Anyone dealt with this and have any advice?

February 1
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A MyAutismTeam Member

Her laughter may have been a reaction to her feelings at that moment - some people laugh when nervous, for example. It's interesting how emotions manifest differently from person to person. Either that or perhaps she has a strong spiritual sense and knew he was at peace as he crossed over. I don't know you or your daughter, so I'm kind of grasping at straws, but these could be possibilities :)

February 2
A MyAutismTeam Member

I am so sorry Shelencia. I can't imagine what that must have been like...

In terms of explaining it simply, Jesus really said it best when he compared death to sleep (John 11:11, 14) - no pain, no suffering but also no consciousness. That does take some of the fear and mystery out of it, but of course the feeling of deep loss never completely goes away. Talking to a grief counselor is a wise move.

February 2
A MyAutismTeam Member

I just want to add to what Autie4Lyfe83 mentioned- I'm also feeling this because I do this myself-giggle or laugh when there's a surprise emotion like seeing a loved one cry-you feel for them but don't know how to express the feeling properly so you laugh.. This doesn't mean she didn't understand your emotions.

February 2
A MyAutismTeam Member

Thank you for this information and this is helpful. She was present when he passed and as I was crying she was laughing and I was completely baffled and feel like an ass for yelling at her for laughing. I don’t know how I’m going to pull through this but I have no choice but to deal with it.

February 2
A MyAutismTeam Member

sorry to hear about your loss I had 3 myself pass away within the year

https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/m...

https://www.adult-autism.health.harvard.edu/res...

Key Differences in Grief Experience
Expression: May not cry or show immediate emotion but can have delayed outbursts, or express emotions oppositely (e.g., laughing when sad).
Processing: Grief isn't always linear; it can involve suppressed emotions leading to later "tsunamis" or emotional overload.
Manifestation: Increased autistic traits like sensory sensitivities, repetitive behaviors, shutdowns, or meltdowns can occur.
Understanding Death: Difficulty with the abstract concept of death, requiring concrete explanations and visual tools (like emotion charts or social stories).
Coping Strategies & Support
Maintain Routines: Stability from routines helps manage the void and changes.
Concrete Communication: Use visual aids (thermometers, emotion wheels, comic strips) and direct, simple language.
Sensory Support: Create sensory-friendly spaces and allow breaks for regulation.
Validate Feelings: Recognize internal emotional experiences even without outward displays; allow for preferred communication (writing, art).
Special Interests: Engage in passions as a comforting way to remember or process loss.
Time: Allow ample time for processing; reactions can be delayed by weeks or months.
What to Avoid
Expecting Neurotypical Reactions: Don't push for outward emotional responses that aren't natural for the individual.
Excluding from Rituals: Ensure participation in grief rituals (funerals) with proper support, as exclusion increases negative outcomes.

Bereavement - a guide for professionals
Bereavement - a guide for professionals
Adult Autism Health Resources Autism and Grief
Adult Autism Health Resources Autism and Grief
February 2

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