Asperger Syndrome and Alcohol exposes the unexplored problem of people with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) using alcohol as a coping mechanism to deal with everyday life. Alcohol can relieve the anxiety of social situations and make those with ASDs feel as though they can fit in. Ultimately, however, reliance on alcohol can lead the user down a path of self-destruction and exacerbate existing problems.
Utilising their professional and personal experience, the authors provide an overview of ASDs and of alcohol abuse, and explore current knowledge about where the two overlap. Tinsley explores his own personal history as someone with an ASD who has experienced and beaten alcohol addiction. He discusses how the impact of his diagnosis and his understanding of the condition played a huge part in his recovery, and how by viewing his life through the prism of autism, his confusion has been replaced by a greater understanding of himself and the world around him.
This inspiring book on an under-researched area will be of interest to professionals working with people with ASDs, as well as individuals with ASDs who may be dealing with alcohol or substance misuse, and their families.
Table of Content
Foreword by Temple Grandin. Introduction. 1. Asperger Syndrome and Alcohol – Why Should There Be a Link? 2. Childhood and Adolescence – Where Does it Start? 3. The Adult Social World – Friendships, Relationships and Other People. 4. Employment – Drinking and the Workplace. 5.Beginning of the End – A Failing Strategy. 6. Drying Out – Support and Rehabilitation. 7. Life Beyond the Booze – Recovering Autistic Alcoholic. Conclusion. References. Resources. Appendix – Thoughts from Friends and Family.About the author
Matthew Tinsley has a degree in Modern Languages and spent his entire professional life working in the sphere of specialist bookshops. After many years struggling with alcoholism and two failed marriages, he overcame his addiction. Matthew believes this is largely due to his self-awareness of his autistic condition, together with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. He is currently living in Brighton, where he aims to help spread awareness of the problems faced by those with Asperger’s Syndrome.More ebooks from the same author(s) / Editor
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