But if I got a dog, would I have to also get a ridiculous yellow coat to dress it up in? Pets and their ability to help people never cease to amaze me. I have been researching the use of cats to help families with new diagnosis of aspergers. Cats behave in very much the same way as people with aspergers (or we behave like cats!) The need to sleep and feel safe in small places. The need for routine. The incredible intelligence. The sensory needs. When our cat climbs in the same paper bag, at the same time of day, for the same 6 hour sleep she has every day, my daughter says 'Mummy the cats being autistic again!'

Oh of course, and a matching ones for you and the children! Oh dear, that would be a sight! Please don't.

I don't have any experience with aspergers myself but i can definitely relate to the need for a routine, i think its especially important for anyone having difficulties with their mental health. I suffer from severe depression and anxiety, but i can just about manage the anxiety (or know what to expect of myself anyway) with the help of anti-depressants, therapy and most importantly to me, a routine.

I like that youre including your daughter in these conversations, even if its in jest! She should grow up with a better understanding of mental health and that can only be a good thing, they're the next generation after all, so lets hope some of these judgements people make are left behind in the future. I think the currently visibility of mental health issues is great, the adverts on the TV and radio. Although i am a tiny bit afraid of the uneducated, that they may think if theyre a bit upset they should get professional help, i just dont want those who really need the help to have to wait longer or explain themselves further, but then trust me to always find the bad side. I actually only say this due to some dissapointing reactions from people around me who should really know better. If the publicity means more acceptance, less judgements, a better understanding, more available support, better services and processes then that can only be a good thing for us... oh look, the 'bright' side, i did it!

Hope you're as well as can be today x