I Overcame My Autism and All I Got Was This Lousy Anxiety Disorder

1. Autism is a complex neurological condition that affects individuals in diverse ways

I do not speak for all autistic people. I will not try to. I do not want to. I wish to be a voice/face of autism in a much greater, more nuanced and diverse conversation, not the voice or face of autism.

Autism is highly individual. The autism spectrum encompasses a wide range of experiences, abilities, and challenges. While some autistic individuals may struggle with verbal communication, others may excel in certain areas like pattern recognition or intense focus. The diversity within the autism community highlights the importance of understanding each person's unique needs and strengths.

Common characteristics include:

• Differences in social communication and interaction
• Repetitive behaviors or restricted interests
• Sensory sensitivities
• Challenges with executive functioning
• Varying levels of support needs

It's crucial to recognize that autism is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Each autistic person's experience is shaped by their individual traits, environment, and support system.

2. Masking and camouflaging autism can lead to burnout and mental health issues

Masking might be destroying us, but it's also gained us access to a world that is denied to many of our fellow autistic human beings.

Masking is exhausting. Many autistic individuals develop strategies to hide their autistic traits in social situations, a process known as masking or camouflaging. While this can help them navigate neurotypical environments, it often comes at a significant cost to their mental health and well-being.

Consequences of long-term masking:

• Chronic fatigue and burnout
• Increased anxiety and depression
• Loss of sense of self
• Difficulty maintaining relationships
• Delayed autism diagnosis

The pressure to conform to neurotypical expectations can lead to a cycle of exhaustion and self-doubt. Recognizing the impact of masking is crucial for autistic individuals and those who support them to develop healthier coping strategies and promote self-acceptance.

3. Special interests are a vital aspect of autistic life, providing joy and coping mechanisms

I believe special interests have the ability to bring a sense of order and control to a world that is often baffling to us. I appreciate the escapism they provide when things get too overwhelming.

Special interests are powerful. For many autistic individuals, special interests are not just hobbies but a fundamental part of their identity and well-being. These intense passions provide a sense of structure, comfort, and joy in a world that can often feel chaotic and overwhelming.

Benefits of special interests:

• Stress relief and emotional regulation
• Opportunities for learning and skill development
• Potential career paths or areas of expertise
• Social connections with like-minded individuals
• Enhanced self-esteem and sense of purpose

Rather than discouraging or pathologizing special interests, it's important to recognize their value and potential. Embracing and nurturing these passions can lead to increased happiness, self-confidence, and even professional success for autistic individuals.

4. Navigating social situations and relationships requires significant effort for autistic individuals

I don't know how to temper a lifetime of high-alert survival instincts, no matter how poorly formed and detrimental they might be.

Social interactions are complex. For many autistic people, social situations require constant analysis and effort. Understanding unwritten social rules, interpreting non-verbal cues, and managing sensory input in social settings can be challenging and draining.

Common social challenges:

• Difficulty with small talk and casual conversations
• Misinterpreting social cues or intentions
• Struggling with unspoken social expectations
• Sensory overload in social environments
• Anxiety about potential social missteps

Despite these challenges, many autistic individuals deeply value relationships and connections. Developing strategies to navigate social situations while honoring their own needs and limitations is an ongoing process for many on the autism spectrum.

5. The autism community faces challenges from both internal conflicts and external misunderstandings

Far too many mainstream solutions prioritize non-autistic whims over autistic needs.

Diverse perspectives create tension. The autism community is not monolithic, and conflicting views on autism can create divisions. Some advocate for autism acceptance and neurodiversity, while others focus on finding a cure or promoting interventions to make autistic individuals appear more "normal."

Key areas of conflict:

• Debates over person-first vs. identity-first language
• Disagreements on the role of therapy and interventions
• Varying opinions on the concept of "curing" autism
• Tensions between autistic self-advocates and some parent groups
• Misrepresentation of autism in media and public discourse

These internal conflicts, combined with widespread misunderstandings about autism in society at large, can make it challenging for autistic individuals to find acceptance and appropriate support. Bridging these divides and promoting better understanding is crucial for the well-being of the autism community.

6. Autistic individuals often struggle with self-acceptance and societal expectations

I don't regret—and I won't stop—seeking a bigger audience, either. I worked in complete obscurity for years. When I weigh the positives and negatives, writing in this slightly less marginal level of obscurity is still preferable to the alternative.

Self-acceptance is a journey. Many autistic individuals grow up feeling different or "wrong" due to societal expectations and lack of understanding about autism. Learning to accept and embrace their autistic identity can be a challenging but rewarding process.

Challenges to self-acceptance:

• Internalized ableism and negative self-perception
• Pressure to conform to neurotypical standards
• Limited representation of diverse autistic experiences
• Difficulties in finding supportive communities
• Coping with the aftermath of late-life diagnosis

Developing self-acceptance often involves unlearning harmful beliefs, connecting with other autistic individuals, and finding ways to honor one's authentic self while navigating a predominantly neurotypical world.

7. Finding one's place in the world as an autistic person is an ongoing journey of self-discovery

I am still, ten years later, very much a work in progress. But at least I know what I'm working on now.

Self-discovery is continuous. For many autistic individuals, understanding and embracing their autism is a lifelong process. This journey often involves learning to advocate for oneself, developing coping strategies, and finding ways to thrive in a world that isn't always accommodating to neurodivergent individuals.

Key aspects of the autistic journey:

• Learning about autism and how it affects one's life
• Developing self-advocacy skills
• Finding supportive communities and relationships
• Exploring career paths that align with strengths and interests
• Balancing self-care with societal demands

While the path can be challenging, many autistic individuals find that embracing their neurodiversity leads to greater self-understanding, improved well-being, and the ability to create a life that honors their authentic selves.

Last updated: October 13, 2024