Large groups of (strange) people

I think this is part of the issue.

In October, I joined a music group and there was something like 8 people and I quickly settled in. Someone mentioned that there was a group which was quite a bit closer to me and I asked for some information on them.

I was then contacted via Facebook by 2 people who attend the group. I attended the group and settled in with no problem.

I was asked by various members of each group if / when there was going to be a group set up where I am. (not because they wanted to get rid of me; but due to travel stuff / distance)

The group was set up in May and by this time, I'd left the first group because of distance, which I'd discussed with organiser.

At first, we only had 5-6 people there, which I was fine with and had been talking to one of them for about 6 months previously.

We put an advert in the local paper because not everyone has access to Facebook (how the group was set up) and a lot of people turned up.

This appears to have caused a serious problem for me and I've really not enjoyed the previous 2 (didn't go last week) weeks.

I am finding it far too overwhelming socially to be in a group that big. :( It wasn't helped by going from 6 people to 20. It may have been easier if it had increased slowly.

Does anyone else get this? Yet, I can happily go to the pub with a few friends when there's loads of people in there with no problem.

I have just been asked about where I've been from another member. No-one is aware that I'm Autistic and how much of an issue this is becoming.

Parents
  • openheart said:
    I may try this concept myself, but I must the tell the friend, they are the shield and constant in the environment, a bit like what a support worker does, except the friend is more free range.

    Be careful with this, openheart.

    Many people will not want to be 'chosen' in this way, and you may do nothing more than lose a friend.

    It is better to ask a friend if they would become your 'guard', and be ready to accept their decision if they say no.

    Do not force it upon them.

Reply
  • openheart said:
    I may try this concept myself, but I must the tell the friend, they are the shield and constant in the environment, a bit like what a support worker does, except the friend is more free range.

    Be careful with this, openheart.

    Many people will not want to be 'chosen' in this way, and you may do nothing more than lose a friend.

    It is better to ask a friend if they would become your 'guard', and be ready to accept their decision if they say no.

    Do not force it upon them.

Children
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