The semantics of the spectrum are always changing, and full of nuance, depending greatly on the people present, and the situation at hand. I chose to incorporate this word intentionally, both because many without diagnoses feel they can't receive help without something official, and also because many with official diagnoses don't resonate with their neurological symptoms as a fixed identity. Neurospicy is a word that I find opens people up to the topic of neurodivergence with curiosity about themselves and others, giving opportunities for awareness and empathy. There are still times where I need to advocate clearly and identify myself or my kids as Autistic or ADHD, but I believe wholeheartedly that those characteristics are more reflective of a type of thinking than a list of pathological symptoms.

This is a very complex and important question! Since I view Autism as an amazing, and much needed neurotype, I would be erasing myself and my family by saying that Autism should be cured. However, this sensitive type of brain is prone to chronic inflammation. The symptoms associated with Autism that hinder kids from learning and having stable emotions, families from feeling they have agency and peace over their daily outcomes, and adults from holding jobs and feeling good about themselves, are highly improvable. I do believe there are many viable ways to improve, anticipate, and accept the various parts of life with Autism, and no one should have to accept their current set of symptoms as set in stone.

In my house alone, I have seen evening meltdowns be predictable, and then disappear, bedwetting gone, dairy intolerances relieved, eczema gone, migraines be predicable and easy to treat, self harming tendencies go down almost completely, clearer communication, executive functioning improved, picky eating improved greatly, vocabulary and working memory improved, sound sensitivity greatly improved, self reporting of dysregulation become normal, healthy regulation strategies saving meltdowns, mast cell related allergies go into remission, and peace be restored to my family dynamic! People often report feeling mentally lighter, being kinder to themselves, and realizing that they're not terrible, inconsistent, flighty, ungrateful, irresponsible or hopeless. It's pretty great.

I am most familiar with the symptoms and struggles of Level 1 Autism (ASD1 / Low Support Needs Autism), Level 2 Autism (ASD2/Moderate Support Needs Autism), as well as ADHD. AuDHD (ASD +ADHD) is the most common neurotype/profile that I work with. While I have less experience with Level 3/Profound Autism, I have seen that regulation is improved for these individuals with the exact same principles, implemented with a similarly personalized plan that works with unique needs.