Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi All,
I'm newly diagnosed with Autism. One thing that has come up a few times in my thoughts is I can now kind of avoid hugs with people I don't know very well (to be honest that feels like most people I see on a regular basis!)
I used to go along with it if someone initiated it even though I hated it but now I don't think I need to anymore. Does anyone have a way of avoiding hugs causing as little fuss as possible as I've noticed people seem to get offended if you don't want them touching you.
Sorry, I'm sure there's no right answer I'm just looking for tips / how others do it.
Eyes
Hi,
Stand back a bit and look awkward and uncomfortable, I guess that just comes naturally, I don't know but I've avoided hugs like that by just hanging back.
The thing I absolutely hate but luckily it doesn't happen very often is the continental kiss, not sure if its actually called that but that thing at family occasions where someone you know approaches you and does that kind of kiss/hug thing, I'm never quite sure what to do, is it a hug/cheek kiss as in actually kissing their cheek or an air kiss near their cheek? Ugh *shudder* I never quite know what to do in that situation so it always feels very awkward.
Also, continental kiss isn't something I get much, thank goodness though you see it in TV, sounds horrific - especially if they put their hands on your shoulders too.
Luckily its rare, although there's one who always does it and there's no escape with that person have to grin and bare it sometimes, its just easier and its soon over with, its just you know that moment when someone comes towards you and you think "OMG, what the hell do I do?"