For those of us with autism, we know how our symptoms present, but for others who don't understand, they may have their opinions of how socially awkward we are.

For me, it's interesting being able to read about other people’s experiences with autism, because it helps me feel less alone. It's not always easy for us to explain how we feel in certain situations, particularly when autism manifests itself around unexpected changes.

Autism and unexpected changes

It's also the unexpected changes, particularly the ones that make me feel anxious and panicked. As part of autism, I struggle with noises and certain smells. The biggest problem is anxiety and panic that comes over me when I struggle to find a resolve on some of the bigger issues.

Autism is mentally exhausting

It is mentally exhausting. I’ve lived with something, but never understood why I presented this way, or what it even meant. It is lonely and isolating, but where people understand, we feel more supported and less misunderstood. It’s what people can do to help us that make the biggest difference.

If everyone contributed to making those of us who deal with autism feel less of a burden, we would get to feel more inclusive and be more prepared.

Ilana Estelle is a mental health and wellbeing advocate who combines educational insight with her personal experience of living with physical, mental, and emotional disabilities. She holds diplomas in Counselling, Diet and Nutrition, Nutritional Therapy, Psychotherapy and Counselling, and Stress Management. Through her writing, Ilana supports others in navigating their emotional, mental, and physical health challenges. In addition to writing for The CP Diary, her work has appeared in healthy lifestyle magazines. Ilana is also the author of three books: Cerebral Palsy: A Story – Finding the Calm After the Storm, Spirituality, Healing and Me, and Survival: The Covid Years – Time for Change.

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2 comments on “My Autism Traits”

  1. I still find it hard to comprehend that this has been your life and that you're still finding out about the things you know you deal with.

    When any part of the brain is injured from birth, the brain compensates so all of this make sense. I find it sad you're still having to work it out yourself.

    And piecing your symptoms together as you're doing is exactly right. Very inspirational. I probably would have given up a long time ago.

    1. I am just pleased I know now. Although I didn't want to give up, there was a part of me that began to subconsciously question whether I would find out.

      I never gave up the hope that one day I would find out. It's what kept me going. Your words are comforting thank you. I appreciate the sentiment.

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