Poor memory

I don’t know if this is a specific problem with autism but I can see how memory could be affected by autism. There is always so much to process and think about so I’m sure things like memory can be a bit sketchy, especially when things like drinking and eating can so easily be forgotten about.

This is the case for me especially when I am stressed or have a lot going on in my head.

My memory overall isn’t bad but I do struggle with remembering things I have read and watched. When I was going through the diagnosis I was told that struggles with retaining new things is often seen in autistic people. So it’s possible this is an autistic trait in some people.

It is a spectrum so not everyone will have this.

I also struggle with remembering conversations and people's names... Really adds to the social anxiety lol.

My memory isn’t too bad but reading and watching things, I forget more than I remember, especially character names.

I don't remember most names, but most people don't because they are not really interested. Certain people you will remember though.

I have been replaying difficult conversations and decisions from 30 years ago recently, I light of my realisation I might not be normal. I can still see people's faces and their expressions, and my emotions.

I remember certain lessons from school from 40 years ago. In January I went through everything bad I could remember from about 6 onwards, 50 years of it, as I wanted to know what was holding me back. I then got it all together and went to see someone to sort out what it all meant. And here I am.

Anything unusual I remember. But ordinary stuff from yesterday is already forgotten.

I have always had a good memory though.

I would like to forget some of it as it has haunted me for a long time, but once it's in there its ready to be wheeled out to beat myself up with when I get burnt out or depressed.

I’m rubbish with names but I do remember faces most of the time. Sometimes I’ll see someone walking and think oh that’s that woman from Lidls lol. My brain remembers useless stuff really.

That’s cool you can picture faces, expressions and emotions. I definitely couldn’t do that! I’ve never understood emotions, my own or other people’s. But that’s for a different thread!

Sounds like you have quite a good memory! And I’m glad you got the answers you were looking for, or some of them anyway. You’re normal for somebody who’s autistic!
Most of my time at school I have forgotten, or tried to forget. It wasn’t a good experience for me.

Stuart333 said:

I would like to forget some of it as it has haunted me for a long time, but once it's in there its ready to be wheeled out to beat myself up with when I get burnt out or depressed.

I’m sorry to hear that but can seriously relate. We’re always hardest on ourselves. When you feel like that try to think of the good stuff, and that you got through the bad stuff. It’s always easiest to focus and see the negative things so try and see the good.

Easier said than done I know (I suffer with a lot of self hatred sadly), but hopefully that will help. Always try to be kind to yourself, I am still working on this in my own life.

Thanks everyone for your replys that's all very interesting to read x

Thanks everyone for your replys that's all very interesting to read x