Published on 12, July, 2020
Hello, new member here. I've only recently been diagnosed with autism so I'm doing a lot of learning. Piecing together things that I thought was just me being crazy and unlovable a lot of the time was actually undiagnosed autism. It hasn't felt good though and has strangely left me feeling more isolated and stressed.
My housemate is away and last night my downstairs neighbours were playing music so loudly I could basically feel it through the floor. I tried knocking/ringing on their door but they didn't open it, and eventually I got so stressed by it I couldn't eat and completely broke down. I think loneliness and things being really busy at work haven't helped, but is getting this upset over noisy neighbours normal for people with autism or am I just extra sensitive?
Any shared stories or info would be appreciated. Thanks
It is common for autistic people to be ultra sensitive to certain noises. Exposure can result in sensory overload and trigger a meltdown. If you are stressed to start with (about other things) that will exacerbate the situation and amplify the emotional response that such a situation triggers.
The emotional response is complex. What can start out as sensory overload becomes more complicated and deep rooted. I have experienced a lot of anger in such situations in the past, much of it directed inwardly. Feeling angry that I have to endure it and also being afraid of any kind of confrontation with the neighbours. Knowing that the way it affects you is due to being autistic should help you to be a little kinder to yourself about getting upset.
Unfortunately soundproofing is inadequate in most housing, especially flats. People can be inconsiderate and selfish.
You mentioned being able to feel the noise through the floor. This is something I have really struggled with. Earplugs or noise cancelling headphones can help to dampen the actual noise, but they don't help with the vibrations and 'feeling' the noise. I don't know what the solution is for that, other than moving.
Years ago I had neighbours who used their tumble dryer for several hours every day. The vibrations from it was like torture for me. I couldn't bear to be anywhere inside my house when that machine was switched on. Thankfully they moved before I was driven completely mad by it.