Member-only story

Being perceived as either flaky or too much is a terrifying burden for an Autistic person.

Photo by Casey Horner on Unsplash

I’m out here studying people like a raven on a perch in the corner ceiling of the room, very aware I will not be perceived well if I come down to join everyone. I would describe my character as deep, intellectual, observant, instinctual, and empathetic. Other people seem to perceive me as too much or too little, either way never being the right dose of pill for people to swallow.

Photo by Dušan Tizić on Unsplash

Over and over, in the last year of being in the Autistic Adult Communities on Social Media, I’ve heard a common thread of experience in regards to Identity & Self Worth. “I am either too much or too flaky to others". When what is really happening to the Autistic person is their Autistic characteristics are being used against them or misunderstood - making it increasingly difficult to build long lasting relationships or bonds with others.

The author made this story available to Medium members only.
If you’re new to Medium, create a new account to read this story on us.

Or, continue in mobile web

Already have an account? Sign in

Jean Grey | Neurodivergent Rising
Jean Grey | Neurodivergent Rising

Written by Jean Grey | Neurodivergent Rising

#ActuallyAutistic #ADHD #CPTSD Sharing my Late realized Neurodivergent experiences. INFP-A | Cat lover | Writer | Blogger linktr.ee/jeangrey_rising

Responses (4)

Write a response

Thank you for this. I saw myself reflected in almost every line. I've worked so hard to make myself palatable to the neurotypical world and I'm just, not. At times, I even feel it from my spouse.

12

Thank you for this article. I go through most, if not all, of what you described in your experiences. I have also been recently diagnosed as a 39 year old and seeking ADHD too, which I know I am. It's a tough one. It's interesting, I am asked the…

25

Oh My God, wow!! You have just described, so beautifully, why I feel like I never fit in, anywhere. And yes, even in groups I have been in for a while. I could not believe it when you mentioned adrenal fatigue. Yes!! This just happened to me; I…

10