Your Autism Journey Doesn't End at 18: A Real Guide to Adult Life
8/15/2025
Growing up with autism can feel like you're always planning for "someday." But what happens when someday becomes today? If you're a teen or young adult with autism in Northeast Ohio, you're probably wondering how to handle work, relationships, and daily life as an adult. The good news? You've got this – and you don't have to figure it out alone.
Building Your Support Team
One of the biggest changes from teen to adult life is that your support system shifts. Growing up, if you had caring family and counselors in your life, they made sure you got help. As an adult, you'll need to build your own team.
Start by connecting with local resources. The Autism Society of Greater Akron offers support groups and services for adults. Local hospital systems also have autism programs that can help you find the right doctors and therapists.
Don't forget about online communities, too. Sometimes it's easier to talk to people who really get what you're going through when you're not face-to-face.
Making Work Actually Work for You
Finding a job that fits your strengths can be tough, but Ohio has some great resources. The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities helps people with autism find jobs and learn workplace skills.
Here are some tips that really help:
- Be honest about what you need to do your best work
- Ask about remote work options if offices feel overwhelming
- Look for employers who value attention to detail and reliability
- Consider fields like tech, libraries, or research where your focused interests might be perfect
Many companies in Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati now actively hire people with autism. Don't be afraid to highlight what makes you different – it might be exactly what they need.
Managing Daily Life Like a Pro
Adult life comes with a lot of moving parts. Bills, appointments, grocery shopping, and keeping your living space clean can feel overwhelming. The trick is creating systems that work for your brain.
Try using apps like calendars with reminders, or old-school planners if you prefer writing things down. The Autism Speaks website has tons of helpful tools and guides for daily living skills.
Set up automatic bill payments so you don't have to remember due dates. Create shopping lists on your phone, and try shopping at the same store so you know where everything is.
Taking Care of Your Mental Health
This part is huge and often gets overlooked. Managing autism as an adult means dealing with stress, anxiety, and sometimes feeling like you don't fit in. That's normal, and it's okay to ask for help.
Look for therapists who understand autism. The Psychology Today directory lets you search for specialists in your area. Many therapists in Northeast Ohio now offer telehealth, which can be more comfortable than in-person visits.
Remember that self-care isn't selfish. Whether that means taking breaks when you need them, stimming to feel better, or just having quiet time, do what helps you feel balanced.
And Level Up has tons of local resources. You can use their interactive map to find out which ones are closest to you.
You're Not Alone in This
Growing up with autism doesn't mean you can't live the life you want. It just means you might do things a little differently – and that's perfectly fine. Northeast Ohio has a growing community of autistic adults who are working, living independently, and building meaningful relationships.
Take things one step at a time, celebrate small wins, and remember that everyone's journey looks different. Your autism is part of who you are, not something that defines your limits.