Published on 12, July, 2020
Just been for my first hair cut in more than 2 years.
Since the lockdowns I've enjoyed the quiet, the routines, the lack of pressure to be out in busy places socialising.
Went back to somewhere I have been before and I was totally unused to it. Pains, sensory overwhelm, couldn't understand convos, went into my shell and could have agreed to anything (but thankfully a day later I can see I didn't have my head completely shaved or anything too drastic, haha, phew.) When I eventually got home I was ready to meltdown. Fearful of the sudden change to my hair.
Last time I was there I had no idea I was autistic. I don't remember SO much overwhelm, but I do remember it being a 'bigger' experience but couldn't pinpoint how. Yet I also remember some times of complete quiet - which tended to be when there was lots of white noise from hair dryers, etc. I could zone out, kind of an out-of-body experience, but also ran the risk of getting disorientated and forgetting what I'm supposed to do, leading to panic.
I totally understand that hairdressers and barbers could be hugely overwhelming places now, and I'm seriously considering cutting my own hair, but I don't think I'd do well with that at all so for now I'll continue putting myself through this as infrequently as I can...
What are your experiences with hair cuts - especially before and after the lockdowns?
Also, have any of you ever confided in a hairdresser / barber about being autistic? Did it help?
I haven't been to a hairdresser/barber for years, thankfully! My partner was a hairdresser, many years ago, so I get it cut for free and without the added stress. I've always hated the hairdressers, mainly because they always want to chat. "Have you booked your holidays?", "Going anywhere nice this year?". "Just shut up and cut my hair!". I never said that, but I wanted to! Lol! The last few times I went to a local barber. I have short hair in a basic style so being a woman wasn't an issue. Apart from being miles cheaper, £20+ at a hairdresser's to less than £10 at the barber for the same service, the guy didn't insist on small talk either! Win, win. I'm super glad I don't have to do that now, though!
JustMe said:they always want to chat. "Have you booked your holidays?"
I think people need to look at it another way - these people are bored sh*tless - spending all day, every day in a 12' box, on their feet doing a job guaranteed to give them RSI.
An ASD person with a specialist subject knowledge is like a breath of fresh air - I've found many just need you to talk about anything to relieve their suicidal boredom - so something out of the ordinary repertoire of "weather's nice" input is usually welcomed - even if they are baffled by your knowledge about 1965 Citroen 2CV engine rebuilds.