Jide Macaulay’s Post

Our trustee, John Baker, has penned an insightful piece for the Male Psychology Magazine: "Families Need Fathers, Because Both Parents Matter". 💡 In this thought-provoking article, John explores the vital role both parents play in a child’s development and why supporting family relationships is essential for building a healthier, more balanced society. 💙👨👩👧👦 🌐 Dive into the full article here: https://lnkd.in/e2dse5Kc 📢 Join the conversation! What are your thoughts on the importance of both parents in a child’s life? Let us know in the comments below. 👇 #MalePsychology #FamilyMatters #Parenting #JohnBaker #FamiliesNeedFathers

Living as a neurodivergent person in a world designed for neurotypicals is an ongoing struggle—where simple, everyday interactions can feel like insurmountable challenges. The pressure to conform, mask our true selves, and perform for acceptance leaves many of us exhausted and unseen. What we need isn’t ‘fixing’ but understanding. Empathy, accommodations, and genuine support can go a long way in creating a society that embraces differences and fosters inclusion. Let’s work toward a world where everyone is valued for who they truly are. #Neurodivergence #Inclusion #SocialChange #Empathy "Empathy is not contingent on being closely familiar with someone’s struggles... it is in accepting and understanding them, that is where we start with true kindness."

In "Raising a Strong Daughter in a Toxic Culture," Dr. Meg Meeker offers guidance for parents navigating the challenges of raising daughters in the modern world and provides strategies to promote their happiness, health, and safety. here are 7 lessons from the book: 1. Building a Strong Parent-Daughter Bond: The book emphasizes the importance of a trusting and supportive relationship between parent and daughter. It offers strategies for fostering open communication and creating a safe space for your daughter to share her thoughts and feelings. 2. Cultivating Confidence and Self-Esteem: Meeker emphasizes the importance of fostering a strong sense of self-worth in your daughter. This involves helping her develop a healthy body image, positive self-esteem, and a clear understanding of her values. 3. The Power of Positive Relationships: The book highlights the importance of positive female role models in a girl's life. This could include mothers, grandmothers, aunts, or mentors who can provide guidance, support, and encouragement. 4. Understanding Boys and Men: Meeker offers insights into the world of boys and men, helping girls develop healthy relationships built on respect and communication. 5. Understanding Media Influences: The book explores the dangers of social media for young girls, including cyberbullying, unrealistic portrayals of life, and the pressure to conform. It provides strategies for parents to help their daughters navigate social media safely and responsibly. 6. The Importance of Open Communication: Meeker emphasizes the importance of open communication between parents and daughters. Creating a safe space for your daughter to talk about anything, from friendships to body image concerns, is crucial for building trust and fostering a healthy relationship. 7. Sex and Relationships: Early and Open Communication: The book encourages parents to have open and honest conversations with their daughters about sex and relationships, starting at a young age. This can help them make informed decisions and avoid risky behaviors.

In "Raising a Strong Daughter in a Toxic Culture," Dr. Meg Meeker offers guidance for parents navigating the challenges of raising daughters in the modern world and provides strategies to promote their happiness, health, and safety. here are 7 lessons from the book: 1. Building a Strong Parent-Daughter Bond: The book emphasizes the importance of a trusting and supportive relationship between parent and daughter. It offers strategies for fostering open communication and creating a safe space for your daughter to share her thoughts and feelings. 2. Cultivating Confidence and Self-Esteem: Meeker emphasizes the importance of fostering a strong sense of self-worth in your daughter. This involves helping her develop a healthy body image, positive self-esteem, and a clear understanding of her values. 3. The Power of Positive Relationships: The book highlights the importance of positive female role models in a girl's life. This could include mothers, grandmothers, aunts, or mentors who can provide guidance, support, and encouragement. 4. Understanding Boys and Men: Meeker offers insights into the world of boys and men, helping girls develop healthy relationships built on respect and communication. 5. Understanding Media Influences: The book explores the dangers of social media for young girls, including cyberbullying, unrealistic portrayals of life, and the pressure to conform. It provides strategies for parents to help their daughters navigate social media safely and responsibly. 6. The Importance of Open Communication: Meeker emphasizes the importance of open communication between parents and daughters. Creating a safe space for your daughter to talk about anything, from friendships to body image concerns, is crucial for building trust and fostering a healthy relationship. 7. Sex and Relationships: Early and Open Communication: The book encourages parents to have open and honest conversations with their daughters about sex and relationships, starting at a young age. This can help them make informed decisions and avoid risky behaviors.

In the whirlwind of life, sometimes the most unexpected anecdotes bring profound insights. One of my friends who was fleeing a war zone shared with me: "When I had to leave, I put on my nicest dress and changed my underwear.” She taught me so much with that simple story, prioritizing a change of underwear amidst chaos, humor amidst turmoil. She thought if I’m dying at least my picture will look nice. It's a reminder that how we enter, deal with, and exit situations shapes our experiences. Five years ago, my son Dany's autism and Dup15 diagnosis rocked my world. It challenged my belief that solutions exist for everything. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, my journey through online communities and associations became a lifeline. I needed to become an expert when physicians were not able to help. I encountered numerous rejections, from schools to medical systems, highlighting the paradox of needing labels for treatment but facing stigma attached to them. The struggle to balance acceptance and advocacy became evident as I fought for my son's rights. The irony of needing labels for government support while avoiding them for insurance coverage left my head spinning. But amid the chaos, I found purpose in advocating for neurodiversity, recognizing that legal frameworks often fall short in accommodating unique needs. Rejecting the quest for 'normalcy,' I embraced Dany's uniqueness, advocating for inclusion and recognition of neurodiversity in legislation. His journey taught me that true acceptance comes from celebrating individuality. Dany is keenly aware of his differences; he grapples with the disparity between his inner voice and external perceptions. His boundless affection often blurs boundaries of personal space, while his vocabulary evokes a bygone era, strikingly formal for his age. His laughter, distinct from his peers, is often met with patronizing treatment. As his mother, I provide him with the emotional support I believe he needs, yet I cannot shield him from a world that often views him through a lens of deficiency. As we commemorate Autism Acceptance Day, let's acknowledge the journey from awareness to genuine acceptance. It's not just about raising flags or lighting up landmarks; it's about fostering a culture of inclusion where every voice is heard. As I face life's challenges alongside my son, I'm reminded of my friend's wisdom: in the face of adversity, humor and resilience are our greatest assets. So, how do we want to face it? I chose laughter, acceptance, and unwavering advocacy. 💙 💙 Statistics: - 85% of autistic adults with college degrees are unemployed. - Autistic adults are 3 times more likely to commit suicide. - A 2012 report in the USA found that people with disabilities experience sexual assault at a rate seven times higher than people without disabilities. - The average lifespan of someone with autism is 16 years lower than the national average.

Happy #neurodiversitycelebrationweek! Some important reminders: - Neurodiversity is the natural variation of human minds. This can include gender, personality, sexuality, how we act, what we enjoy, how we think. It is a collective term for any group of people. - The person who coined the term "Neurodiversity" has since proven to be transphobic, and abusive towards ND folk, so whilst the term itself is valid, she is no one to be lauded and is no ally. - Neurodiversity is not the same as Neurodivergence. A group of Neurodivergent people will be Neurodiverse, but Neurodivergence itself is an umbrella term for individuals with a range of conditions, including Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, Tourettes, OCD, ADHD, Autism, and others. If we truly want to celebrate diversity of human minds, we need to build an accessible, inclusive society where everyone is supported, accommodated and valued. That means people of all races, genders, sexualities, ages, social classes, (dis)abilities... everyone! And yes, that absolutely must include all Neurodivergent people too! There is sadly still a lot of hate, ignorance and harmful rhetoric in society - misogyny, queerphobia, racism, classism and ableism in particular are still major issues we must overcome. So this week, a call to action. If we truly want to "celebrate" the diversity of society... we must fight against those who are harming, oppressing and dehumanising those who don't fit the "norm".

Here’s how you can support your LGBTQIA+ child 👇 In a world where inclusivity should be as natural as breathing, supporting our LGBTQIA+ children is more crucial than ever 🌈 With 82% of UK parents recognising the importance of teaching children about diverse family dynamics (Just Like Us, 2022), it’s clear that acceptance starts at home 🏡 Here’s how you can create a supportive and affirming space for your LGBTQIA+ child: 1. Create a welcoming space 🙌 Affirming spaces are crucial for the health and well-being of LGBTQIA+ youth. Ensure your home is a sanctuary of acceptance and understanding. 2. Listen and learn 👂 When your child shares their identity with you, centre the conversation around their experiences, not your own reactions. It takes immense courage to come out. Listen more, ask respectful questions, and let them guide the disclosure process. 3. Embrace their identity 🙏 Acknowledge their preferred pronouns and terms. Avoid assumptions about their sexual orientation or gender identity based on stereotypes. Each journey is personal and unique. 4. Educate yourself 📚 If you’re unsure about terms or concepts, it’s okay to seek information. Use reliable sources to educate yourself rather than expecting your child to explain everything. 5. Monitor their well-being 👀 Be vigilant for any signs of distress or mental health struggles. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. 6. Be an active ally 🤝🏼 Advocate for your child in social settings and correct misconceptions or discriminatory remarks. Support isn’t just private; it’s a public affirmation of your child’s worth. 7. Celebrate diversity at home 🫶 Even if you don’t have LGBTQIA+ family members, discussing and normalising LGBTQIA+ topics at home fosters acceptance and respect. 👉 Ultimately, be their champion!

Let your child know they are not alone. Your support can be the stronghold they rely on as they navigate their path 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️ They don’t need you to be perfect, just willing to stand by them with love and acceptance. Have questions or need resources? Feel free to reach out or comment below 👇

🧠 Embracing Neurodiversity!! 2024 With this week being #neurodiversitycelebrationweek I wanted to open up about my own struggles with #ND and how it affects my life! As a trans woman navigating parenthood with two incredible kids who are both undiagnosed, thanks to the dreaded waiting lists! One with suspected autism and one with suspected ADHD, the journey hasn't always been smooth sailing! Infact I always feel like a fraud or a cheat if I mention about their #ND when it hasn't been diagnosed, because the ingrained societal expectation of an official letter from a GP, makes me feel like I am lying and just a terrible parent for not raising my children right! You see, for the longest time, I've also struggled with undiagnosed ADHD and the nagging feeling of being a fraud. I mean, how can I be a good parent when I can barely keep my own thoughts in order? Being Transgender on top of that also weighs heavily on being a parent who is just "messing" my children's life before it has even started! It is a real struggle where I feel like just admitting anything like this, plays into the hands of judgemental/gender critical people! Being diagnosed as neuro-diverse shouldn't be something to fear. And yet, as a trans woman, I can't help but worry about the judgment and scrutiny from those so-called "gender critical" folks. Will they use my diagnosis as ammunition to undermine my identity? Will they weaponize it against me and my family? It's just something more added to the anxiety of trying to exist! I am NOT an expert of all things Neuro-Diverse! I spend a lot of my time researching and making sure I am aware of the differences and what I can do to support and help my kids! I am always learning more and more about how my kids navigate this world and I want them to feel accepted and seen in this world! I am aware of the changes and things I need to put in place so my Kids can thrive! I am learning more from then, whilst stepping outside of what I "thought I knew" and taking on new ideas, ways of living and triggers to be aware of. With such long waiting lists, It's like we're stuck in limbo, waiting for answers that may never come. There's no quick fix or cure for neurodiversity. It's not something we can just sweep under the rug or wish away. But you know what we can do? We can embrace it. We can celebrate our differences and advocate for better support and understanding. We can create a world where neuro-diverse individuals are valued, respected, and celebrated for exactly who they are. 🌟 Here's to embracing neurodiversity – in all its messy, beautiful, and wonderfully chaotic glory. Let's lean into the journey, support each other, and create a more inclusive and accepting world for neuro-diverse individuals everywhere. Together, we can make a difference. 💪 Please keep having the right conversations! ❤ #Neurodiversity #ADHD #AutismAwareness #TransRights #InclusionMatters #IDontKnowHowToBeTrans

Some reasons why we contemplate suicide as queer people (and why non-carceral support is so important) We might want to die because of: > Navigating violence and abuse perpetuated by homophobia and transphobia > Feeling intense distress from dysphoria and barriers to accessing gender affirming care > The internal conflict, shame, and guilt of internalized homophobia and transphobia > Being ostracized and rejected from family and others who were “supposed to” love us > Struggling to survive, materially and emotionally, in a world that oftentimes actively seeks to keep us out > Facing barriers to accessing basic needs such as healthcare, housing, employment, food, etc When the carceral mental health system also often perpetuates homophobia and transphobia, and isn’t knowledgeable around how our queer identities intersect with our trauma and other mental health needs and identities, then it makes sense that many of us face harm and trauma when we seek help, too. Having support that is rooted in consent, autonomy, and humanity, that affirms and understands our identities and their impact on our experiences in the world, allows us to care for and heal ourselves in the ways we need to. Join us next Thursday to Ask a Queer Peer Supporter! Drop-in Question Session with THRIVE + Stronger U teams. We expertly support queer folks in our communities through acute crises, identity-based needs, and chronic marginalization Details: Register at tinyurl.com/ask-queer-peer $10 cost 1 hour long June 27, 11:30p GMT / 7:30p ET / 4:30p PT Stronger U partners with THRIVE and uses a revenue sharing model, donating funds, peer support, and free training to THRIVE, which provides free anonymous mental heath and identity affirming lifeline conversations, including non-carceral suicide and self harm support. #MentalHealthSupport #PrideMonth #LGBTQ #Trans #Queer #TraumaInformed #CommunitySupport #PeerSupport #LivedExperience

🌟 Championing the Boy Child: Their Lives, Their Emotions, Their Well-being 🌟 In our quest for gender equality and empowerment, it's crucial that we don't overlook the unique challenges faced by boys. The boy child's life matters just as profoundly, and we must create an environment where they feel valued, supported, and understood. Boys, like girls, are often subjected to societal pressures that dictate how they should behave. They are frequently told that "boys don't cry" or "boys need to be tough." This narrative can be damaging, leading to suppressed emotions and mental health issues. It's time we change this dialogue. 💬 Boys Can Talk About Their Feelings: Encouraging boys to express their emotions is vital. Open conversations about feelings should be normalized, allowing boys to share their experiences without fear of judgment. 😭 It's Okay for Boys to Cry: Tears are not a sign of weakness but a natural response to various situations. Boys should be reassured that expressing sadness, frustration, or pain is healthy and human. 🤝 Support for Boys' Mental Health: We must provide boys with the tools and support they need to manage their mental health. This includes access to counseling, mental health education, and positive role models who demonstrate that vulnerability is a strength. 📚 Educational and Social Support: Schools and communities play a critical role in supporting boys. Programs that teach emotional intelligence, resilience, and coping strategies can make a significant difference. Boys should be encouraged to participate in activities that promote emotional well-being and social connection. 👨👦 Role of Parents and Guardians: Parents and guardians have a powerful influence. By modeling emotional openness and reinforcing that mistakes are part of learning, they can help boys develop a healthy self-concept. Let's work together to ensure that every boy feels free to express himself fully, understands that it's okay to make mistakes, and knows that his mental health is a priority. By doing so, we pave the way for a generation of emotionally intelligent, resilient, and compassionate men. Every child deserves to feel supported and understood. Let's make this a reality for the boy child. 🌟 #MentalHealth #BoysMatter #EmotionalWellbeing #SupportBoys #GenderEquality #MentalHealthAwareness #ChildAdvocacy #HealthyMinds #FutureLeaders