Has your autisticness changed over the years?

Not sure autisticness is a real word, but you get the idea.

If I think back to how I was In my 20s, then 30s, then 50s, and now post diagnosis, plus how I am in and out of burnout, I can see some changes.

In my 20s I was far more set on what food I would eat, I had stricter routines, changes made me uncomfortable, I couldn't approach strangers at all, I was quite timid, I couldn't really do social events, if I had to they were a lot more stressful than enjoyable, something to be endured.

As long as not burnt out, I became less timid, more outwardly assured, albeit at the expense of chronic stress, and did more. I stopped most scripting and rarely replay conversations now. I became much better at using forums, and even calling people on the phone (I couldn't use it as a teenager). Social events are hard but not as bad, I still feel awkward, I think that will never go.

I think as you get older there is less new stuff so your sphere widens.

Is this other people's experience?

Parents
  • I can really relate to what you’ve said.

    I was very timid when I was younger and had awful social anxiety  even simple things like talking to people or going to events felt impossible.

    As I’ve got older, it’s helped that there are fewer completely new situations to face.

    Things feel a bit more familiar and predictable now, so they’re not quite as overwhelming, even though that awkward feeling never really goes away.

Reply
  • I can really relate to what you’ve said.

    I was very timid when I was younger and had awful social anxiety  even simple things like talking to people or going to events felt impossible.

    As I’ve got older, it’s helped that there are fewer completely new situations to face.

    Things feel a bit more familiar and predictable now, so they’re not quite as overwhelming, even though that awkward feeling never really goes away.

Children