My name is John, and I’m an autistic adult. I was diagnosed with autism when I was five years old.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how the brain processes information, and it can affect a person’s ability to communicate, socialize, and learn. In this article, I’ll share what it was like growing up as an autistic child and navigating the world around me.

Early Childhood

When I was a toddler, my parents noticed that I wasn’t hitting some developmental milestones. For example, I didn’t start talking until I was around three years old.

They also noticed that I had repetitive behaviors, such as lining up my toys in a certain way and rocking back and forth. My parents took me to a doctor, and I was eventually diagnosed with autism.

My early childhood was marked by a lot of difficulties. I had trouble communicating with others, which led to frustration and tantrums. I also had sensory issues, such as being sensitive to loud noises and certain textures.

For example, I couldn’t stand wearing scratchy clothing or eating certain foods. My parents worked with me to try and help me navigate these issues, but it took time and patience.

School Years

When I started school, I quickly realized that I was different from my peers. I struggled to make friends, and I didn’t understand social cues like when someone was joking or being sarcastic. This led to many misunderstandings and hurt feelings.

I also often got overwhelmed with sensory input in the classroom, which made it difficult to concentrate.

One thing that helped me in school was having a routine. I knew what to expect each day, and I found comfort in that. I also had accommodations in place, such as sitting in a quiet corner of the classroom and having a fidget toy to help me focus.

It wasn’t always easy, but with support from my parents, teachers, and therapists, I was able to make it through the school years.

Teenage Years

As I entered my teenage years, my autism presented new challenges. I struggled with anxiety and depression, which is common for autistic people. I also felt like I didn’t fit in anywhere.

I wasn’t part of the “nerd” crowd, but I also wasn’t popular. I had a few friends, but I still often felt isolated.

One bright spot during my teenage years was my love of art. I found that I had a natural talent for drawing and painting, and it became a way for me to express myself.

I also discovered that I enjoyed writing, which led me to start a blog where I could share my thoughts and experiences with others.

Adulthood

Now that I’m an adult, I’ve learned a lot about myself and how to manage my autism. I still struggle with social situations, but I’ve found ways to cope.

For example, I’ve learned to pick up on certain cues that people give off when they’re uncomfortable, so I know when to back off. I’ve also learned to be more direct in my communication, which has helped me avoid misunderstandings.

One challenge of being an autistic adult is finding meaningful work. Many employers aren’t willing to make accommodations for autistic people, which can make it difficult to find a job.

However, I’ve been lucky enough to find work as a freelance artist and writer, which allows me to work from home and set my own schedule.

Conclusion

Living with autism has had its share of challenges, but it’s also given me a unique perspective on the world.

I’ve learned to appreciate the small things in life, and I’ve developed a deep empathy for others who struggle in their own way. I hope that by sharing my story, I can help others understand what it’s like to be an autistic person and foster greater understanding and acceptance.