Presenter: Mike Macedo, LICSW, Social Sparks, Inc., East Coast Mental Wellness

Mike is a Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, and an Autistic adult himself. Diagnosed as a child, Mike discovered the benefits of group activities and team sports when he joined his high school cross country/track teams. What followed was a sense of belonging and a lifetime love of fitness not only as a means to stay in shape, but as a therapeutic tool. Life can be hard, and being Neurodivergent can be too. Sometimes it can feel like you are alone in navigating a world not designed for you, which can feel isolating. Mike's goal is to explain how regular participation in individual and group recreational activities can foster a sense of belonging, inclusion, and self-confidence. He will demonstrate how exercise and outdoor time can be especially healing for Neurodivergent individuals who need an escape from the overstimulation of everyday life. Mike will speak personally on the subject of loneliness, and how it uniquely pertains to Neurodivergent adults. Mike will also explain the prevalence of social isolation, depression, unemployment, and burnout among the Neurodivergent Community, and why it is so important for us to feel included and accepted. Using his perspectives as both a therapist, and an Autistic man himself, Mike will share with the audience, his personal story of how running changed, (and likely saved) his life, and how it doesn't matter what your abilities are if you want to pursue an active lifestyle or join a group activity, everyone deserves to feel included and find their community.