Hello,
I am looking for advice on what help there is for autistic people working in a bar or similar loud environment.
I have been out of work for some time but recently took up a job in a bar.
I was enjoying it at first but the proximity of the other bar staff to each other when it was busy, combined with the loud music, lots of people and fast pace etc was too over stimulating and though I took several 'toilet' breaks to try to calm myself and remain reasonable I had a bit of a meltdown and said to the manager it wasnt for me.
I realise in hindsight I could have asked for help such as to wear headphones or be given certain tasks to do so I don't feel overwhelmed. I am still in the middle of being formally diagnosed and i find it really hard to explain why i dont feel ok about things sometimes and I come across as seeming too unfriendly or rude and I feel embarrassed about that too as I have often been bullied in the workplace before because of this.
The people ar this bar were for the most part very understanding and I think if I was able to ask for help they would listen but I don't know exactly what I can ask for.
Does anyone have any advice on what would be available?
All i can think to start is wear headphones, be given clearer instructions about what to do and ask that my timetable is mostly consistent so I am not working too many irregular hours for a sleeping pattern.
Also for anyone in customer service generally I was struggling to smile or seem happy as I got locked into not feeling ok.
Please let me me know any advice.
Cheers.