Single mother Helena has three children with autism. She has built herself a life in the coastal suburb of Maroubra in Sydney’s East. Despite her challenges as a carer for her children with additional needs, Helena believes in the power of knowledge, connection and finding a supportive community. 

April marks Autism Understanding Month (AUM). It celebrates the existing strength of the community and encourages the shift from awareness to understanding and support. According to Aspect, around 675,000 Australians are autistic, with early diagnosis leading to significant improvements in quality of life for many children and adults. 

For Helena, she often sees people label autism as a child or young person being ‘difficult’ particularly when they start school. 

“There are so many preconceptions and misconceptions about autism – no two autistic people are the same. Many think that it’s just children being naughty or disruptive and going to school only adds an extra layer of expectation.” 

Image: Carer Gateway Client Support Partner, Izabella and Helena smiling in the photo.

Autism occurs across all cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds and can be diagnosed at any age.  Helena received her autism diagnosis at age 46 and says that years of reading, researching and educating herself to best support her children, helped prepare her with the resources to better understand and advocate for herself. 

Helena reached out to the team at Carer Gateway which provide vital support to her not only as a carer for her children, but also on her journey being a single mother with autism.  

“Caring for a loved one with additional needs can be isolating and parents often carry immense guilt or question themselves. Carer Gateway has taught me that I’m not just a carer or a mother but I’m also my own person with personal hurdles that I don’t need to carry on my own.” 

Helena found the peer support programs helpful and now leads the Carer Gateway Peer Support Group in her local community, with guidance from team leaders - a role she is very passionate about. 

“It’s important to find your people who are fighting the same fight. You may be in different spaces but there’s mutual understanding on how tough caring can be and showing support through words, giving grace and listening without judgement goes a long way.” 

Helena expresses that although her life has had tough moments, it’s through services like Carer Gateway where she’s met with instant support and empathy. 

“You’re just shown immediate grace and kindness the second you walk into a Carer Gateway program or activity. There’s no judgement because they just get it!” 

When asked how the community can support individuals with autism, Helena encourages people to educate themselves, and lead with kindness and curiosity rather than assumption. 

“For example, if a friend is coming over with their child who you know has autism – be open to asking them what their child likes so you can ensure they feel comfortable and happy.” 

Carer Gateway is an Australian Government program providing free services and support for carers. If you care for a family member, friend or a loved with disability, mental illness or who is frail due to age, Carer Gateway services may be able to assist you. 

For more information about Autism Understanding Month, visit here. If you would like to learn more about Carer Gateway, visit here or call 1800 236 762.