ATYPICAL

Do you know someone who is diagnosed with Autism? Most likely you do. 1% of the world’s population is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and the prevalence in the United States is 1 in 68 births. Whether or not you have been personally touched by such a unique and awesome individual, I highly suggest you watch the Netflix series, Atypical. And trust me you are going to love it! I am already jonesing for the season 2!
 
Atypical is a series based on a high functioning high school senior who is on the spectrum. Through the eight episodes, you see Sam Gardner's journey first hand - trying to fit into a world with neurotypical (people who are not diagnosed with Autism). You get an insider’s view on how his mind works, how he processes social situations and what it is like to be someone who has Autism. The added bonus is that you get to see how Sam’s family copes and supports his tendencies and experiences.

• His mom, who is struggling with adjusting to Sam’s independence and not being needed as much.
• His sister, who has taken the role of his bodyguard, while trying to balance her role as spectrum sibling and her own needs and wants.
• His dad, who struggles to connect with his son and all rest of the family members.

All in all, it is a great way to understand what it is like to have a family member on the spectrum. Does it mean that all families have the exact same experiences as the Gardner's, absolutely not. Like many TV shows and movies, the scenes are exaggerated and yet most families can relate to the majority of the situations the series highlights. I loved it so much that I have assigned it to many of my clients who have a family member on the spectrum.

My hope is that watching the series will help others build empathy and understanding for individuals who are on the spectrum. It is a great way to see everyday situations through a different perspective. Individuals with Autism, think and perceive the world differently. Wouldn't the world be a better place if we all could understand each other a little better?