Published on 12, July, 2020
I have meltdowns over lots of things. I find it difficult to choose what to eat, and even to think about what to eat, what to wear, which clothes to buy, which products to buy, which food to buy, etc. I also struggle with hygiene. I don't like it if my face gets wet in the shower, don't like the feeling of a toothbrush, the taste of toothpaste, I worry that I am not washing my hair, brushing my teeth, combing my hair properly because of my dexterity problems and sensory issues. I have a big phobia with brushing my teeth as I have issues with my gums. I worry about seeing them bleed when I brush or that the toothbrush might make my gums recede more. I have to see the dentist every three months and I am terrified of them. Everytime I go there, it't the same issues. Most of my teeth are fine, but I still have the bleeding gums and I still have the biggest build up of plaque and tartar on my lower front teeth. It ruins my confidence. I'm not sure if this is psychological and an irrational fear, and do other people with autism feel this way, and if so, how do you overcome it?. I feel like I am not having a normal life because I am constantly worrying and having overloads and meltdowns about things. I am in supported accommodation at the moment, but the staff don't take the time to help me with these issues.
I don't have issues with brushing my teeth as long as I always get the same toothpaste. Showering is an issue. Hygiene wise I like baths so that's fine. But hair washing does bother me.
Food and clothes I accepted a long time ago that I'm very fussy about them and to just buy the limited amount of things that I like. Gave up bothering what people think about that. It helps me feel calm.
Tidying up in the house is a massive struggle. I have to really push myself to do that.
It is more anxiety, social events and my own thoughts that I really struggle with.
It's a shame the staff aren't providing more support for you with these issues. Is there no one you can speak to about it?