zylen.lol

I'm diagnosed with autism. It affects how I communicate, process information, handle sensory input, hygiene, routines and emotions. Everyday things that might seem simple to other people can sometimes feel overwhelming or take a lot more effort than you'd expect.

I can struggle with things like starting tasks, keeping routines, dealing with sudden changes, understanding certain social situations and explaining how I'm feeling. Sometimes I know exactly what I want to say, but I can't figure out how to put it into words. Other times I might need more time to process something before I can properly respond.

Sensory stuff can also affect me more than people might realise. Noise, lights, crowds, certain textures or just having too much going on at once can become overwhelming. When that happens, I might become quiet, distant or need to get away from everything for a while. It's not me trying to ignore anyone or be difficult.

Masking can make me seem "fine," even when I'm struggling inside. I might copy how other people act, force myself through situations or hide how overwhelmed I actually am. Because of that, people can mistake my struggles for being rude, lazy, careless or emotionless when that's not what is happening.

I also don't always react to things in the way people expect. I might seem completely calm when something is actually bothering me, or I might get overwhelmed by something that doesn't seem like a big deal to someone else. That doesn't mean I'm overreacting or that I don't care.

I don't expect everyone to understand everything about autism, and I don't want people to treat me differently just because I'm autistic. I just want a little patience when I'm struggling, especially when something that seems easy to someone else isn't easy for me.

I don't want pity. I just want to be understood.