This week, actor Nathan Brooks took to social media to share his recent autism diagnosis as an adult. His candidness is significant, as it highlights that individuals on the autism spectrum—both adults and children—are not isolated in their experiences. As a parent of an autistic child, witnessing someone like Nathan thrive in his career helps combat the persistent stigma surrounding autism.
Nathan pointed out, “It was a long, flawed process in need of updating. IMO. I’m a middle-aged man. Not a 5-year-old.” At 49, he recognizes the privilege of receiving a formal diagnosis—a privilege that many individuals, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, may not have. By addressing this issue upfront, he emphasizes his commitment to raising awareness rather than simply sharing his personal story.
Importantly, Nathan expresses that he is still navigating his new identity within the autism community and does not wish to be an uninformed spokesperson. Instead, he aims to acknowledge his place in the community while directing attention to the many knowledgeable voices present on social media. “The #autistic community has historically been talked over. Spoken for. I don’t wish to do additional harm,” he stated, showcasing his desire to elevate those whose voices are often overlooked.
Supporting My Son’s Journey
As my son approaches adulthood, he is eager to engage in typical teenage activities, such as dating, socializing, and even learning to drive. At 14 years old and autistic, he wants the same experiences his peers enjoy. When he started kindergarten, his teacher noted his lack of engagement with other children. After multiple evaluations, he received a diagnosis of Asperger’s, which is no longer an official term; today, we proudly identify him as autistic. As his parents, we strive to support him in a world that often fails to understand his needs, which can be daunting as we consider his future.
Our son desires the same freedoms as other teens, yet we must balance these wishes with his unique needs. We understand that eventually, he will need to navigate life independently. This prospect is intimidating, but like Nathan Brooks, we aim to support our son in finding his way in a world that may not always make sense to him.
Other Voices in the Autism Conversation
Nathan isn’t the only celebrity shedding light on adult autism. Comedian Sarah Lane also recently discussed her husband, chef Mark Turner, being on the spectrum during her comedy special. The revelation surprised many, not because of the diagnosis, but because it challenged the stigma that individuals with autism are unworthy of love and relationships. In her series, she provides an intimate look at life with someone on the spectrum, fostering greater understanding.
Through the visibility brought by public figures like Nathan Brooks and Sarah Lane, we can collectively enhance our understanding of autism. One of the most impactful statements from Nathan’s announcement was, “[B]eing autistic is central to who I am.” This is the message I hope my son embraces, and with increased representation, it may become more attainable for him.
Further Reading
For more insights on related topics, check out this other blog post. You can also explore this authority on infertility for more information. The CDC provides excellent resources on infertility and home insemination.
Summary
Nathan Brooks’ recent announcement about his autism diagnosis serves as a beacon of hope for many, including parents of autistic children. His openness not only fights stigma but also emphasizes the importance of community voices. As my son prepares for adulthood, the lessons from Nathan’s journey resonate deeply, encouraging acceptance and understanding of autism.