High Functioning Doesn’t Mean Easy

Here’s a great article that sums up my world very well:

Why ‘High Functioning’ Autism Is So Challenging

These are me:

Extreme sensory issues. …sensory dysfunctions. These include mild, moderate, or extreme sensitivity to noise, crowds, bright lights, strong tastes, smells, and touch.

Social “cluelessness.”  What’s the difference between a civil greeting and a signal of romantic interest? How loud is too loud? When is okay to talk about your personal issues or interests?

Anxiety and depression. …We don’t know whether the autism causes the mood disorders, or whether the disorders are the result of social rejection and frustration.

Lack of executive planning skills.

Emotional disregulation. Contrary to popular opinion, people with autism have plenty of emotions. In fact, people with autism can become far too emotional in the wrong situations. Imagine a 16-year-old bursting into tears because of a change in plans, or a grown woman melting down completely because her car won’t start.  These are the types of issues that can arise for people with high functioning autism, who are capable of doing a great many things ONLY when the situation is predictable, and no obstacles arise.

Difficulty with transitions and change.  Lots of people have a hard time with change, but people with high functioning autism take the issue to a whole new level.

 

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