My behavior isn't "uncalled for"
I'm on the spectrum. I struggle to pick up on social cues, I have a million and one sensory issues, I get confused and overwhelmed by my own emotions, I have week long meltdowns sometimes- I'm autistic.
At every job I've ever had, in most every classroom I've been in, I've been told that my behavior is "uncalled for." Hell, I've had a partner tell me that during one of my meltdowns because I started crying for no reason. Weather it's a boss, a teacher, or a loved one- I just seem to experience this ableist attitude everywhere. I can't stop myself having a flashback, panic attack, or meltdown; it's not that simple. But able people just see me as a neusance, it's so exhausting. I can't help the way my brain works, I can't help that loud noises like fire alarms or slamming doors can trigger me and make me start crying. I can't help that certain textures trigger me, I can't help that chewing on things calms me down.
I can't be what people want me to be, I can't be "normal"
@NiceGayUnicorns2002 I get you, Nice. I appreciate your honesty and agree with you. I am the parent of an adult child with ASD, and it's one of the most misunderstood conditions in society. I think you are awesome for speaking out and sharing with others in this way. Take care and keep sharing.
Hey @NiceGayUnicorns2002. I hear you. I also am on the spectrum and it isn't easy. You are absolutely right - we can't control the way our brains work it is just how we are wired. You should be respected for who you are, spectrum and all. I do not believe there is a "normal" as we are all unique in our own ways. Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing!
@NiceGayUnicorns2002 I totally hear you on this completely! I too am on the autism spectrum (Asperger syndrome to be specific), and communication and managing emotions can be some of the hardest things for me also. Many also don't seem to understand that I can't always control how I feel. It is such a frustrating feeling. I feel for you on this. Has anyone you know been educated on what it is like to be autistic? Do they want to know? If so, maybe suggest they try doing a Google search or reading some books on the topic of autism. Just an idea.
