How do i explain my autistic "icks"
Ok, so, im autistic. obviously. and i have all (what i like to call them) these icks. for example, people being loud, chewing with your mouth open, touching me, ect. and i have my meltdowns if they happen (or i suppress/mask like *** knows.) but anyways. i have these friends that don't know im autistic. (for context im on the lower functioning side of the spectrum but my autism is also coupled with high functioning adhd so, sometimes its hard to tell what is from what.) and i just dont know how to explain to them that touching me (even just tapping me on the arm or shoulder) isnt ok. because i feel like (knowing my friends) they'll just keep asking questions. like, if i tell them to stop touching my arm if they just tap it i'll most likely just get a "why?" and then that'll lead to me most likely have to explain that im autistic and all this stuff and idk if im quite just ready yet.
@CoralQ
If they are your good friends, I know it's hard but communication is key.
They wouldn't want to do anything that would make you uncomfortable and they can't know if you don't tell them.
It doesn't make you less.
I'm sure if the shoe was on the other foot and they told you, you would be respectful and kind, give them that chance!
💜💕
@CoralQ
Hi there,
I hear you. This must be annoying for you! If you’re not quite feeling ready to share your diagnosis, that’s fair enough as you don’t have to, it’s your business.
As regards touching your arm, would you perhaps feel more comfortable saying to someone that ‘you have sensory issues…so prefer not to be touched’ or…‘I’m not a very touchy feely person’… or ‘that makes me feel uncomfortable so I’d rather you not do that’…. That way, you’ve not been rude to anyone but politely let them know you’re not comfortable with it.
@RobynTheBirdIt makes sense that you want to protect your boundaries without having to explain everything before you feel ready. You can keep it simple by saying something like, “I’m not comfortable with being touched, please don’t tap me,” without going into details if you don’t want to. A clear and firm response can often be enough for friends to understand and respect your limits. If they do ask why, you can choose to say something like, “It’s just a personal boundary I have,” and you don’t owe anyone a deeper explanation until you’re ready to share more. Your comfort comes first, and it’s okay to set boundaries in a way that feels safe for you.