Reaching out to someone while going through a difficult life experience is tough, and it can be even more difficult when you have Autism or Aspergers. For these conditions, there often isn't much support available, especially when it comes to working with others who are going through the same challenges as yourself.

There is now an Aspergers peer support group that is held in Moose Jaw put on by the Canadian Mental Health Association.

Tina Dolcetti has Autism as well as a university education, and she works at the Moose Jaw Public Library. She spoke about the challenges that come along with the diagnosis.

"Often people with high functioning Autism can be very bright, get through university or complete their education. But then it can create difficulties you don't expect like being able to keep a job, being able to have a relationship, meaningful friendships, stuff like that."

The group is for adults and gives people with Aspergers or Autism a place to meet, and gives them somewhere to talk about their successes and the challenges that come with every day life.

Darrell Downton lives in Moose Jaw and has been diagnosed with Autism. He detailed why support groups like this are so important.

"For a lot of people there's just not any services, because we're high functioning - they like our services but they don't like helping us because they figure we don't need help. And that's wrong. That's why I think this group is so valuable."

Downton says he's seen large changes in many of the people who attend the group program.

"I've seen transformation in the people's lives that have come. People that feel isolated and lonely. I've seen their lives take off by having this support group. For me, I find it very valuable because there just doesn't seem to be any support for us. I think it serves a very useful purpose and I'm very excited to be a part of that."

Meetings are held the last Monday of each month at the Moose Jaw Public library and run from 7-8:30.