Product Description: 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.
Utilizing 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played a huge part in his recovery, and how by viewing his life through the prism of autism, his confusion has been replaced by a greater understanding of himself and the world around him.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.
Eye opening account of Asperger Syndrome and alcohol abuse As someone with a Autism Spectrum Disorder who has suffered from alcohol abuse in the past I can identify with Matthew Tinsley's struggle with alcohol. He and Sarah Hendrixx have done a great job pointing out that many people with some form of autism may lean on alcohol to help them cope with life. With support from family and staff at the office I work at (my employer specializes in diagnosing and helping people with ASDs) I've been able to overcome my urges to drink since 2007. For me attending a weekly support group meeting of recovering alcoholics is beneficial too. I hope more research is done into the very possible link between Asperger Syndrome and alcohol abuse.
Anything Goes Trivia
Trevor
Megaton Man
