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Fluctuating abilities

Martin

I wonder if this is a feature of autism that many people experience, a wide and often sudden fluctuation in the ability to cope with everyday social interactions? As an example, I was posting a valuable watch to a watch repairers the other day. In the post office I was fine, working out with the member of staff what form of postage with insurance would be the best. All went off really smoothly, I think I even made a little joke. Then I went to the local park and had a wander about. It was a hot day and I thought that I would really like an ice cream. There is a tea room in the park that sells ice cream, choc ices etc.. I couldn't make myself go in and interact with the staff in order to purchase an ice cream. Despite knowing that was what the staff were there to do, and that they would be quite happy to sell me whatever I wanted. Then I walked home, ice cream-less, mentally kicking myself for being totally useless.

Parents

  • You're not alone. I go through this all the time - virtually every day.. and the bit about going home empty-handed and kicking yourself is painfully familiar. 

    I just try and say to myself something like 'i'm too overwhelmed right now, i'll come back another day'. Tends to take a while to sink in but it can help. Maybe you could try that? It's ok to be overwhelmed after all.

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  • You're not alone. I go through this all the time - virtually every day.. and the bit about going home empty-handed and kicking yourself is painfully familiar. 

    I just try and say to myself something like 'i'm too overwhelmed right now, i'll come back another day'. Tends to take a while to sink in but it can help. Maybe you could try that? It's ok to be overwhelmed after all.

Children