Dr. Amy, Psy.D.Realizing I’m autistic has allowed me to be kinder to myself. Instead of getting frustrated that I’m overstimulated at the grocery store, forcing myself to power through, and ending the day with a meltdown or shutdown, I just tell my husband I’m at my limit, and he checks out while I wait in the car. I remember I’m not bad or lazy or whatever for having sensory needs. 💜
f00f/eris/continuum/etc@dramypsyd I still struggle with this exact thing, even though I've known I'm autistic for as long as I can remember, probably because I don't have those trusted people to help me and I feel a need to be as independent as is possible nonetheless. Perhaps having survived the pressure of traditional schooling and childhood while knowing I'm autistic has contributed to this struggle.
@f00fc7c8 I imagine being encouraged or forced to “suck it up” and “do your best” makes it hard to express a need! I’m sorry you went through that 💜