the iAG podcast - Beyond Labels

This episode's guest is Todd Tomerlin of Athens, Alabama to discuss his journey as a parent of a child with autism. The ups and downs, relationships with spouse, his opinion vaccines & autism, plus some good advice for caregivers.

You're not alone in your journey no matter what diagnosis. Reach out!

There is no debate. Here in the United States we need more adult support options for those on the spectrum and/or with intellectual disability, now. We also need to care more for our neighbor. Love wins.

Link to study discussed in episode:

https://bit.ly/eas_study_cambridge

It's important to be on the same page with first responders when it comes to an emergency event and someone with a developmental disability. Misunderstanding can lead to mistakes which we want to avoid! info@interactionadvisorygroup.com

Understanding the sensory sensitivities that come along with many developmental disabilities such as autism is very important. Communication is critical in police work and safe interactions with the public. We understand from many of the self-advocates we work with and through many hours of practical research, all five senses can be "firing" off at one time for an autistic person making it extremely difficult to focus and understand certain communication from police during high stress calls. 

This video aims to help police officers understand what it may be like for an autistic person when this occurs. It is important to note, not all cases of autism are the same, so sensory sensitivities may not be the same for each individual. 

It is important to know this, adjust your communication style, and ensure the individual is understanding of what you, as the officer, want them to do. Training combined with empathy is paramount.  

School Psychologist, Ameet Bosmia, joins the IAG Podcast to discuss mental health and students. 50%-70% of bullying cases go unreported by the student. Bosmia gives his advice to parents who suspect their child is being bullied and signs to look for in depression. 

If you are having suicidal thoughts please call:

National Suicide Hotline - 1-800-273-8255

or visit

Suicide Prevention Website: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Students with autism spectrum disorder are statistically more likely to be bullied. We cover three basic things that we think are important. 

Resources:

Check out this study that looks at positive school environment leading to less bullying for seventh graders:

https://capmh.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13034-022-00456-z?fbclid=IwAR0EzPLn0FVDDdiwLUb3Tp6mkyH8yiBJqddHjZ7zZWSSCzVmN1kMPtu6FQo

Link to help Stop Bullying:

https://www.stopbullying.gov/bullying/special-needs

Tracking technology can be one of the best tools in helping locate a loved one who has wandered. In this episode, the founder of the tracking tech Project Lifesaver talks to us about the technology and how it works.

We suggest visiting their website and seeing if Project Lifesaver is a good option for your situation. 

www.projectlifesaver.org

*this is not a product endorsement*

Dustin talks with parent/advocate, Stacey Givens(Athens,AL). Stacey shares about her son Brooks and their journey. She also shares advice for new parents beginning an autism journey with their loved one. 

Don't know where to turn when looking for autism services for your loved one? Cody Farmer, from the Department of Mental Health - Autism Coordinator (Region V), explains the Regional Autism Networks and what his role is in helping families. We also discuss resources for law enforcement and other first responders to help them navigate any challenges they may have. 

IfIneedhelp.org is a 501(c)3 organization founded by two parents who saw they need to help their son if he wandered or was separated from them. Learn about the beginnings and how you can use their products and website to help your loved one stay safe in a wandering event. 

Communication is very important especially during an emergency event. During this episode, instructor Dustin Chandler, shares a few things you need to be aware of during communication. 

IAG believes in a team approach to managing any situation especially when it comes to emergency response. Who should be in alignment and why? 

Tragically a seven year old child lost her life on January 10, 2022, after being struck by a vehicle as she walked in traffic. We know the dangers of wandering and want you to know the dangers too. This episode will help emphasize the importance of knowing about wandering for first responders AND caregivers. 

Learn more about Dustin Chandler and how he thought it was important to create a company dedicated to helping first responders understand certain mental health conditions. 

Hey, did you know Interaction Advisory Group has a podcast that covers autism, developmental disabilities and other mental health conditions! Please give us a follow and a like.