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Offering help to someone with autism who injures himself

Question
Vraag

He works at a retirement home where he cleans out the dishwasher and does some other things there. But his hands are hurting and he harms his hands and arms on anything. You can not hold him because he says that this hurts.

Answered by NiceDay Psychologist Martijn Thomas
Answer
Antwoord

Hello,

Thank you for your question. I notice that your question and the context of it still is a little vague. I will try my best to answer your question. To my understanding, someone you know has autism and injures himself, which results in open wounds to his hands and arms, that causes problems at his work. You would like to receive advice about what you can do in this situation.

I think it is important to start with open communication with him, to get insight in his situation and the pain. Communicate on a calm and understanding way with him about his pain and worries. You can then put together a plan with each other that states what is the best way to support him in this situation and with his work. For example you can think of:

  • Can he do his work on another way?
  • Are there other tasks that he can do?
  • Does he need help or support with his work?
  • Does he need support outside work, regarding the self-injury?
  • Does he need extra equipment, like gloves?

I hope this helps some!

Greetings

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