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Jenna profile picture
The Struggle of Being Autistic and Identifying Emotions
by Jenna
Last post
 August 31st
...See more **Disclaimer** I cannot and do not speak for all autistic people. As an autistic person, one of the biggest challenges I face is identifying and understanding my emotions. It’s not that I don’t feel emotions. In fact, I often experience them intensely, but I struggle to recognize and label them. This disconnect between feeling something deeply and not being able to articulate it can be confusing and overwhelming. Sometimes, emotions feel like a wave crashing over me, but I can't tell if it's sadness, anger, or frustration. Other times, I know something is off, but I can’t pinpoint exactly what it is. It's like having a whirlwind of feelings inside but no clear way to describe the storm. I might react to something, and later when I reflect, I realize I was angry or anxious, but in the moment, it was just a blur of overwhelming sensations. The process of identifying emotions can feel even more daunting for many autistic people because there’s often pressure to explain how they're feeling to others, but finding the right words doesn’t come easily. I tend to rely more on physical cues, like noticing if my body is tense, my breathing shallow, or my heart racing, as a way to recognize what I’m feeling. Sometimes it’s easier to express a feeling through a sound, like a sigh or groan, than to find the exact word to describe it. What adds to the challenge is that neurotypical people often expect quick, clear emotional responses. But for many of us with autism or neurodivergence, emotions take time to process. It can feel like we're on a delay, needing space to sit with what’s going on inside before we can understand or talk about it. I’ve had to learn that it’s okay to take that time and not rush to name my emotions if I’m not ready. Being autistic means we process the world differently, and that includes emotions. It’s a journey to understand them, and sometimes, we have to be patient with ourselves, accepting that we don’t always have the answers right away. I’ve learned to explore my emotions through journaling, creating art, or even just sitting with a feeling without trying to label it immediately. The struggle to identify emotions is real, but over time, I’ve come to see it as part of my unique way of experiencing life. For anyone else out there who shares this struggle, know that it’s okay not to have everything figured out all at once. Emotions can be complex, and finding your own way of understanding them is a process. Why Is It Difficult? * Alexithymia: A significant number of autistic people experience alexithymia, a condition where we struggle to identify and describe our own emotions. This doesn’t mean we don’t feel emotions; instead, we find it hard to pinpoint what those emotions are or how they connect to our experiences. For example, someone might feel an overwhelming physical sensation (like a knot in their stomach) but may not realize that they are anxious or upset. * Sensory Overload: Many autistic people experience sensory sensitivities, which can lead to sensory overload. When overwhelmed by stimuli like loud noises, bright lights, or even social environments, the body and mind can react intensely. In these situations, it can be hard to differentiate between physical discomfort and emotional states. For instance, an environment that feels overstimulating may trigger frustration, but the frustration itself might be difficult to separate from the overwhelming sensory input. * Nuanced Emotions: Emotions often come in layers or blends (e.g., feeling both happy and sad at the same time). Identifying these complex emotional states can be challenging for anyone, but for those on the spectrum, this complexity can feel especially confusing. Autistic people might struggle to name nuanced emotions, such as feeling bittersweet, relieved but nervous, or nostalgic. * Social-Emotional Processing: Interpreting others’ emotions can also be difficult, which in turn complicates identifying one's own emotions. Social cues that neurotypical individuals pick up on such as facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language may be harder to interpret for those on the spectrum. This can create a disconnection between what an autistic person feels internally and how they understand the emotional dynamics around them. * Communication Barriers: Language may not always feel like an appropriate tool for expressing emotions. Many autistic people may struggle with verbalizing their feelings, not because they don’t understand them, but because words don’t seem to fully capture the intensity or quality of what they’re experiencing. Non-verbal expressions like sounds, movements, or even art can sometimes be more effective than trying to 'find the right words.' The Emotional Disconnect Because emotions and their physical manifestations may not always align clearly, autistic individuals can experience a sense of emotional disconnect. For instance, they may feel strong emotions but not show them in a way that others expect, leading to misunderstandings in social situations. Conversely, they may appear visibly upset or anxious without being fully aware of the underlying emotional cause. Strategies for Identifying Emotions * Body Awareness: Focusing on physical sensations can be a starting point for identifying emotions. For example, noticing a tightness in the chest may signal stress or anxiety, while a lightness in the body might indicate joy. By tuning into these signals, individuals can begin to make connections between what they feel physically and emotionally. * Emotional Charts or Apps: Visual aids, such as emotion charts or mood-tracking apps, can be helpful for identifying emotions. These break down emotions into basic categories, making it easier to recognize patterns and link feelings to specific experiences. * Routine Emotional Check-ins: Scheduling regular emotional check-ins throughout the day can help build emotional awareness. Asking questions like, “How do I feel right now?” and “What might have caused this feeling?” can develop a habit of reflection, helping us recognize emotions more readily over time. * Creative Expression: Art, music, or other creative outlets can be powerful ways to express emotions when words aren’t enough. Drawing how an emotion feels, playing a musical piece that reflects a mood, or even writing poetry can offer alternative avenues for emotional understanding and communication. * Seeking Support: Working with a therapist or counselor experienced in autism can also provide valuable insights. These professionals can guide us through recognizing our emotions and offering techniques and frameworks that are tailored to our specific needs and experiences. Being autistic doesn’t mean someone is emotionless or lacks empathy; rather, it means their emotional landscape might operate differently. By acknowledging these challenges and providing supportive tools and strategies, we can foster greater emotional self-awareness and communication for autistic people. With understanding, patience, and compassion, we can help create a space where identifying and expressing emotions feels safe and achievable.
Heather225 profile picture
Celebrating Neurodiversity: Autism Acceptance Month (2026)
by Heather225
Last post
 August 31st
...See more April is Autism Acceptance Month, and we want to take a moment to celebrate the neurodiversity within our community, both as members and volunteers.  This is an open floor to share, learn, and connect. Answer either of these prompts: * If you are neurodivergent, what is a unique strength or perspective you feel it brings to your volunteering, be it as a listener or in a leadership role here on 7 Cups? * What is a misconception about autism or neurodiversity that you wish more people understood? Bonus: drop a resource, article, or creator that has helped you feel seen or learn more!
tommy profile picture
Autism Automated Taglist!
by tommy
Last post
 June 4th
...See more Welcome to the Autism Taglist This thread is an auto-updating list. The list is regularly updated by forum leaders and can be found below. Having issues? Reply below and someone will help you! Why should I join the taglist? ✔ Never miss out on sub-community check-ins, discussions or events ✔ Get tagged and notified by community leaders whenever a new relevant thread has been posted ✔ Become a more active member of the community. What do I need to do? ✅ To add yourself to this taglist, press the Post to Thread button below and write the exact words Please add me. ❌ To remove yourself from this taglist, press the Post to Thread button below and write the exact words Please remove me. ------------------------- Current taglist as of 29 Dec (updated by tommy) @Alwayshungry983 @AutiBoy @azuladragon34 @beck1 @courteousCoconut2519 @Fozziewozzie @GwydionRowan @HarmonyBlossom @HatsEatYou @Howegeorgia @Jenna @JovianPlutonian @JustMeUwU @llemonz @LoveMyMoonflowers @NeurospicyGirl @NightOwl2003 @pineapple7722 @Plantsaremybestfriends @RainbowRosie @sentientape @silentbuster26 @SillyBlue32 @SleepyShyCat @smolLITTLEpotato @softParadise5949 @Stasia86 @StressedGirl @SunnyCat0 @teenytinyturtle @theboymoana @tommy @Trosclair03 @Twigo7 @unassumingPeach6421 @Vivikun9 @wishfulWillow6962 @Zahrian2112
sociableScarf2280 profile picture
What do you do when that one person who gets you is gone?
by sociableScarf2280
Last post
 September 7th
...See more My wife has been my best (and virtually only) friend for the last 20 years. When I have a problem, I talk about it with her. Also, when I have a problem, my solution space looks (I believe) very different from a neurotypical’s. I’m a “first principles”, avoid unnecessary assumptions, question the conventional wisdom sort of guy and my wife (who is also AuDHD) understands that. Except that we’re now separated and she doesn’t really want to talk to me anymore. She’s the only person in the world I have any desire to talk through my problems with. I have siblings who’d be happy to hear me out but I just don’t want to talk to them and I’m pretty confident that they simply won’t understand where I’m coming from as I try to navigate the issue and reach a solution.  I can’t be the only neurodivergent person to have ever encountered this. What do you do?
Jenna profile picture
The Struggle of Being Autistic and Identifying Emotions
by Jenna
Last post
 August 31st
...See more **Disclaimer** I cannot and do not speak for all autistic people. As an autistic person, one of the biggest challenges I face is identifying and understanding my emotions. It’s not that I don’t feel emotions. In fact, I often experience them intensely, but I struggle to recognize and label them. This disconnect between feeling something deeply and not being able to articulate it can be confusing and overwhelming. Sometimes, emotions feel like a wave crashing over me, but I can't tell if it's sadness, anger, or frustration. Other times, I know something is off, but I can’t pinpoint exactly what it is. It's like having a whirlwind of feelings inside but no clear way to describe the storm. I might react to something, and later when I reflect, I realize I was angry or anxious, but in the moment, it was just a blur of overwhelming sensations. The process of identifying emotions can feel even more daunting for many autistic people because there’s often pressure to explain how they're feeling to others, but finding the right words doesn’t come easily. I tend to rely more on physical cues, like noticing if my body is tense, my breathing shallow, or my heart racing, as a way to recognize what I’m feeling. Sometimes it’s easier to express a feeling through a sound, like a sigh or groan, than to find the exact word to describe it. What adds to the challenge is that neurotypical people often expect quick, clear emotional responses. But for many of us with autism or neurodivergence, emotions take time to process. It can feel like we're on a delay, needing space to sit with what’s going on inside before we can understand or talk about it. I’ve had to learn that it’s okay to take that time and not rush to name my emotions if I’m not ready. Being autistic means we process the world differently, and that includes emotions. It’s a journey to understand them, and sometimes, we have to be patient with ourselves, accepting that we don’t always have the answers right away. I’ve learned to explore my emotions through journaling, creating art, or even just sitting with a feeling without trying to label it immediately. The struggle to identify emotions is real, but over time, I’ve come to see it as part of my unique way of experiencing life. For anyone else out there who shares this struggle, know that it’s okay not to have everything figured out all at once. Emotions can be complex, and finding your own way of understanding them is a process. Why Is It Difficult? * Alexithymia: A significant number of autistic people experience alexithymia, a condition where we struggle to identify and describe our own emotions. This doesn’t mean we don’t feel emotions; instead, we find it hard to pinpoint what those emotions are or how they connect to our experiences. For example, someone might feel an overwhelming physical sensation (like a knot in their stomach) but may not realize that they are anxious or upset. * Sensory Overload: Many autistic people experience sensory sensitivities, which can lead to sensory overload. When overwhelmed by stimuli like loud noises, bright lights, or even social environments, the body and mind can react intensely. In these situations, it can be hard to differentiate between physical discomfort and emotional states. For instance, an environment that feels overstimulating may trigger frustration, but the frustration itself might be difficult to separate from the overwhelming sensory input. * Nuanced Emotions: Emotions often come in layers or blends (e.g., feeling both happy and sad at the same time). Identifying these complex emotional states can be challenging for anyone, but for those on the spectrum, this complexity can feel especially confusing. Autistic people might struggle to name nuanced emotions, such as feeling bittersweet, relieved but nervous, or nostalgic. * Social-Emotional Processing: Interpreting others’ emotions can also be difficult, which in turn complicates identifying one's own emotions. Social cues that neurotypical individuals pick up on such as facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language may be harder to interpret for those on the spectrum. This can create a disconnection between what an autistic person feels internally and how they understand the emotional dynamics around them. * Communication Barriers: Language may not always feel like an appropriate tool for expressing emotions. Many autistic people may struggle with verbalizing their feelings, not because they don’t understand them, but because words don’t seem to fully capture the intensity or quality of what they’re experiencing. Non-verbal expressions like sounds, movements, or even art can sometimes be more effective than trying to 'find the right words.' The Emotional Disconnect Because emotions and their physical manifestations may not always align clearly, autistic individuals can experience a sense of emotional disconnect. For instance, they may feel strong emotions but not show them in a way that others expect, leading to misunderstandings in social situations. Conversely, they may appear visibly upset or anxious without being fully aware of the underlying emotional cause. Strategies for Identifying Emotions * Body Awareness: Focusing on physical sensations can be a starting point for identifying emotions. For example, noticing a tightness in the chest may signal stress or anxiety, while a lightness in the body might indicate joy. By tuning into these signals, individuals can begin to make connections between what they feel physically and emotionally. * Emotional Charts or Apps: Visual aids, such as emotion charts or mood-tracking apps, can be helpful for identifying emotions. These break down emotions into basic categories, making it easier to recognize patterns and link feelings to specific experiences. * Routine Emotional Check-ins: Scheduling regular emotional check-ins throughout the day can help build emotional awareness. Asking questions like, “How do I feel right now?” and “What might have caused this feeling?” can develop a habit of reflection, helping us recognize emotions more readily over time. * Creative Expression: Art, music, or other creative outlets can be powerful ways to express emotions when words aren’t enough. Drawing how an emotion feels, playing a musical piece that reflects a mood, or even writing poetry can offer alternative avenues for emotional understanding and communication. * Seeking Support: Working with a therapist or counselor experienced in autism can also provide valuable insights. These professionals can guide us through recognizing our emotions and offering techniques and frameworks that are tailored to our specific needs and experiences. Being autistic doesn’t mean someone is emotionless or lacks empathy; rather, it means their emotional landscape might operate differently. By acknowledging these challenges and providing supportive tools and strategies, we can foster greater emotional self-awareness and communication for autistic people. With understanding, patience, and compassion, we can help create a space where identifying and expressing emotions feels safe and achievable.
kckeyz profile picture
My Experience
by kckeyz
Last post
 August 16th
...See more Greetings, I am new here and I decided to look for different avenues of understanding myself and came across this website. After reading @Jenna post then I decided to join.  I am truly a rare "case study" and overall patient in this mental health "game"/battle as I have ADHD, OCD, and Asperger's (Autism Level 1/Spectrum) disorder along with it's "peers" that this brings depression, anxiety, insomnia, stress, social anxiety just to name a few as there are more.  I have been diagnosed and on medication since 2018 and I knew all of my life I was just different than everyone else. To an outside person looking in, one would assume that I am extraverted and not realize that the topic of discussion is what I am "hyper-focused" on and after that conversation I draw back into my own world. If there is a picture dictionary my face would be the epitome of highly introverted when adding labels or the need to describe me. I never became interested in my diagnosis even after countless therapist's and psychiatrist's kept labeling me as being neurodivergent but it wasn't until I came across my new therapist who actually took the time to understand me and removed the neurodivergent title and broke each part down. I then conducted 3 heavy non-sleep days of research and found that I am basically a one of a kind extremely rare person which is why I am not the typical textbook client/patient.  What I have found (which might be helpful to you as it made logical sense to me during my research) is that ADHD, OCD, and Autism (I do not know other medical diagnosis I am just focused on what I have) are basically computer systems. How I was able to make sense of this is in technical terms: your body is the computer and these attributes are the windows program that the computer runs and operates on. Because I have all three programs my body now has to produce a mass amount of energy, time, and process data at a much greater speed, intensity, thought, etc... more than anyone else. Since my body is not using just one baseline program it is operating on all 3, oftentimes it causes the "system"/my body to crash when all 3 of the programs are pushing to be the default program.  I never got swept up in the labels anyone said to me nor have I cared what people thought of me. All I understood was that there are things I like and things that I will not tolerate at all. What I am experiencing has helped me academically but now putting all of the pieces together I do see how anything that is "boring" to my mind or not giving me any dopamine stimulation I cannot engage in.  I learned throughout my 30 plus years of life to encourage myself, build my own self-esteem up, and treat people as seasons, which means to me that no matter the length of time a person is in my life when I am ready for them to leave (due to pushed boundaries) or they walk away, I take it as their season with me as concluded.  Due to my research. I finally have the words to articulate my experience. I have the understanding of how this happened (whereby I have found that it is a birth "defect" during brain development...so whatever my birth mother was doing was not good for me while I was developing), and now I am able to properly describe even in detail to others why I am the way that I am.  Although I do not consider nor accept myself as "broken" my favorite song is by Kelly Clarkson "Broken Beautiful" as I never wanted anyone from friends, family, or medical doctors to "fix" me. All I needed was understanding as I was tired of people calling me everything I felt I was not. I do not process emotions the same way as others. I do have emotional intelligence (as it is not logical to my brain). I am socially appropriate, which can take me weeks to months to recuperate from so any event that I have to go to I have to mentally prepare for beforehand. I am not the person to call for regular chit-chat or small talk as my brain needs a topic and a problem to solve, on the flip side, I am the person everyone calls in a crisis as I am not emotional and everything I say has a reasonable logical solved problem.  Overall, I am glad to know that even though no one else has all 3 "programs", there are shared experiences across the board that can help me understand my own behaviors and to break down the stereotype that social media and the entertainment business jokes about or has completely wrong when it comes mental health.                                                                                                                                                -keys
BunFromThe90s profile picture
Does anyone else feel this way?
by BunFromThe90s
Last post
 August 10th
...See more Hi, I'm new to 7 Cups. I'm autistic and I recently experienced two massively traumatic events in my life that have made me isolate and I'm 100% afraid of people and connection. I need to make that disclaimer before moving forward with any conversation here whatsoever. However, I'm tired of feeling miserable- so I joined this website to try and combat it. I used to be proud of being autistic- like it was something to embrace and love about myself, but now I hate it and hate that I was born this way. If I wasn't autistic, I feel like 95% of my life would be 10 times better, but it isn't. This is the hand I was dealt, and I can't do anything with it. And yet, over and over, I'm punished for it. I had the gut-wrenching realization that most if not all of my problems in life have stemmed from being autistic. I don't understand social cues, I beg for basic communication and am often denied it, I've been bullied out of spaces over assumptions and conjecture because people won't just talk to me or tell me what I've done wrong/to upset them, and I feel entirely alone in this messed up world. I feel utterly hated as a human being, as well as subhuman and have zero self-esteem after how I have been treated by people around me, and I feel like I don't have a chance to find happiness in life. Compound that with being marginalized in multiple ways and I have been wishing for something better for longer than I can remember. The worst part is I feel like a helpless child trapped in an adult's body and I do not know what to do about it. No matter how many times I tell people my communication needs, I'm let down, or worse, met with animosity or violence. I've told people that they need to spell things out for me because my brain is wired differently. No matter how much I plead to be treated like a human being, it hasn't happened. I don't think it ever has. Anyone else? Or am I alone in this too? Before you ask or try to give me advice: Please understand that I am disabled, low income, don't have access to many things due to living in the USA. I'm unfortunately one of those people who are at the behest of a system that would rather see me gone than give me the care I need, and that's... rough, to be honest. I just want to be heard, know I'm not alone, and there's more to life than what I've dealt with.
RobotPuppy profile picture
Will it get better?
by RobotPuppy
Last post
 June 28th
...See more I recently started living with roommates instead of my family, since they cause me great stress. I am friends with my roommates, and soon we plan on getting jobs in the same mall together. I cannot get a job until I get my ID next month, though. My friends have promised to take care of me because I am so stunted. But I feel like such a burden. I am starting to wonder if getting a job will change anything. Will I even make friends? Make a difference? Will I change at all? I am stuck feeling like I am fourteen years old forever, and I'm so worried how that will effect me in the future. I'm considered "high-functioning," but inside I don't feel that way at all. I guess in general I just want to know if getting a job and making new friends will help me feel more mature, or help me change for the better. I'm scared of being stuck forever.
melodiemichelle63 profile picture
I am AuDHD
by melodiemichelle63
Last post
 June 6th
...See more I just recently was diagnosed with autism and I'm 2024 I was diagnosed at 62 with ADHD. Now I have a dual diagnosis and I'm learning to embrace me and my uniqueness 🙋🏼 I wish there was an AuDHD option on the mental health list that's there while you're looking for the communities you'd like to join. I've been given the warmest welcome everywhere I go here in 7 cups and that touched my heart in a big way 🙂 I wish I'd learned of my AuDHD earlier on but it's okay once I was diagnosed it is like my life made a lot more sense and now I am getting to know me and it's a healing miracle for me.  God bless y'all ✝️ 
EuphoriaJessica profile picture
Autism
by EuphoriaJessica
Last post
 May 31st
...See more Autistic people are an important part of the world. I am an advocate for them and how they see the world.
TovaCares76 profile picture
How My Autism Helps Me as a Listener
by TovaCares76
Last post
 April 24th
...See more Hello! I am on the autism spectrum, and am considered a Highly Sensitive Person. A Highly Sensitive Person is someone who feels and processes things more deeply than others. This can include emotions, sounds, lights, and even other people’s moods. Because of this, we might become overwhelmed more easily, but we also tend to be very empathetic, thoughtful, and aware of details. Being a highly sensitive autistic person can be a real strength for listening. Sensitivity often means you notice small details that others might overlook. This helps me understand how someone feels, even if they are not saying it directly. I pick up on changes in tone, word choice, or patterns in their sharing. Many autistic people also value honesty and deep thinking. As a listener, this helps me respond in a genuine and thoughtful way. Instead of giving quick or surface-level answers, I try to take time to really consider what the other person is experiencing. This can make them feel heard and respected. Being highly sensitive can also mean you care deeply about others. When someone is struggling, you might feel a strong urge to support them. This empathy can create a safe and comforting space for the person you are listening to. Additionally, autistic individuals often prefer clear communication. This clarity is useful on a platform like 7 Cups, where listening carefully and responding clearly matters. I try to ask thoughtful questions and ensure you fully understand before responding.  Attention to detail, empathy, honesty, and thoughtful communication helps others feel supported and understood.  Being a highly sensitive autistic person makes me an excellent listener, which makes autism something I think we should never underestimate. 
Summershy profile picture
Realtor "Friend" and "Mentor tried to advantage of me
by Summershy
Last post
 April 3rd
...See more Hi: This is a serious topic that goes beyond my situation as an woman living on the autistic spectrum Nearly 3 years ago, I looked into selling my home and moving elsewhere.  I reached out to woman who I I used to attend synagogue with since she was a realtor.   The main reason for this was because she had always appeared to come across as kind and sincere right?   In the beginning, she made it sound like she could help me sell my home. She also seemed to idealize me and talk about what an amazing person I am.   Yet, little did I know that I was a frog being placed in water that was meant to boil.  Red flags that I noticed 🚩 #1. While appearing to encourage my dreams and desires, she started telling me to re-apply on social security.  "You need this because it's a blessing from God. Plus he is going to open some new doors for you." 🚩 #2. She claimed to be my mentor and friend but a relationship never developed.    She never really called or texted me that much.  Rather, I was the one doing all the calling and texting.   🚩 #3 She said that she was going to have someone come out and draw up my kitchen so we could remodel it.   However, she kept postponing before finally telling me that this person wanted money. 🚩 # 4. In the two and a half years of associating, she never inviting me over for dinner or really do anything with me.   She never seemed to have time for me 🚩 # 5.  She never invited me to look any any properties that she was selling. She only sent me one listing for one property but was not able to make it.   🚩 # 6 .  When expressing my interest in that property, I had that realtor reach out to her.  Yet, she didn't follow up.  So I had to follow up with  her only to be told "Your property isn't ready.  However, I sent you to look at that property to give you ideas on how your home should look when you sell it.  Yet, she never told me that from the begining.  🚩 #7.  She never really supported what I want to do with my life. Instead, she told me to either get back on disability or get a second part time job at a place like a grocery store or a fast food restaurant. 🚩 #8.  She and her husband recently talked down to me like I was a 4 year old during a prom for people with disabilities. She also acted very phony with me during whole event. 🚩 #9.  She recently started using fear monger tactics through unsolicited advice. "Be care about doing that because you could get into trouble at work."  "If you lose your job, you need to get on social security."   🚩 #10. She lacked empathy and was often emotional available whenever I looked for support. -She would always cut me off when I would try and get support by trying to get support - Girl, listen, "We're not even going to worry about that."  🚩 #11.  She continued to tell me "I plan on helping with your home so we can work on everything. However, I am so busy right now. I have time in a few months.'  🚩#12.  "I really believe that God allowed you to attend that synagogue because He wanted you to meet me."  🚩 #13.  Recently, she started getting even pushier with me about getting back on social security.  "Girl, you need to make sure you keep a minimum amount in account so that you can re-apply for these services. 🚩 #14. I felt suicidle on Friday and posted about it on a social media page.   Of course, she called me but was not supportive. Instead, she criticized and manipulated me. "You could lose your job for posting things like that. Other people might think you are unstable.  Take that down and quietly get help."  🚩 #15.  During the last conversation, she talked about me getting back on disability and setting up a special needs trust fund.  She said "You don't spend any of that money, just put it in that trust.  Then we could get you a car and a new home." 🚩#16. She also started to have this doom and gloom approach while seeming to knew better than everyone else. Additionally, she seemed to discredit other people who were supporting me.  "Um..no I don't think so.'  However, I started to feel icky after our most recent conversations and realized that she never had my best interest at heart.  So, went no contact with her on Monday. 
LocalLesbianlol profile picture
Loneliness as a Female Autistic Person.
by LocalLesbianlol
Last post
 February 2nd
...See more Hello everyone, you can call me local (She/Her) Today I wanted to talk about my feelings not only that i've noticed as an adult (also throughout my teen years also), and a queer person. As 21, it's been getting so much harder to grow connections as an adult, and I'm struggling to hold connections due to my trust issues, and doubt that if people actually care about me for who i am. Lots of people in my past have broken my trust, and me as a person because all I want to be in my life is myself, and as i'm healing and growing I am getting close to who I want to be again. But, I still struggle with being happy with myself in a way, and its because my friends, my family and my job is making it so much harder, and overwhelming to connect with people or put effort due to people proving to me that they dont, and never cared about me. And to be honest, I just wish that people could just accept the kindesss, the effort, and the empathy I do give because I want real connections with people. But, people my age don't really care nowadays. And I want to give up but I don't at the same time.  thanks for reading. 
ListeningStar101 profile picture
Beyond the "Weird Kid" Label 🧩 🌈
by ListeningStar101
Last post
 January 31st
...See more For many, 'being different' wasn't a choice—it was a challenge. Many who grew up feeling like the 'weird kid' understand the pain of bullying. It can be exhausting to try to fit a mold that wasn't made for you.  As a Listener, I want to remind anyone currently in those shoes: • Your unique traits are your essence, not your flaws.  •  You don't need to 'fix' your neurodivergence to be worthy of respect and care. • You aren't a broken version of someone else; you are a complete version of yourself. To those reading: Feel free to share your thoughts, I’m here to listen to your journey." Gentle reminder: 
likeatattoo profile picture
Hearing "Everyone Is a Little Autistic"
by likeatattoo
Last post
 November 27th, 2025
...See more To me, this is the most harmful stigma I hear, and I listen to it all the time.

Autism All blue and underlined text is clickable


Welcome to Autism! This is a safe, supportive and inclusive space for you to discuss everything and anything related to Autism. Our main goal is to support everyone that stops by and make this sub community one that is inclusive! 



What are the different forum topics for Autism?

Community Space: A place for icebreakers, introductions, discussions and community check-ins.

Discussions & Resources: Want to get involved in the latest discussions? Find them here!

Living with Autism: Do you live with autism? Talk about your experiences here.


How can I help?

You can help us by simply responding to threads and sharing your story (if you're comfortable). Check-in with us, join a discussion, or start one! Alternatively, you can join us as a Forum Leader. Check out this thread for more information.


Helpful Threads

Taglist: Do you want to stay up to date with our community? Then join our tag list to be notified whenever there is a new discussion or update within the community!


Help! I still have a question!

If you need help, feel free to contact a community leader or post here, and someone will contact you!


Autism FAQ

Are there any sub-community-specific guidelines that we need to adhere to?

You can find Sub-community-specific guidelines below, which you should follow in addition to the general forum guidelines.


Is this sub community just for people who have been diagnosed with Autism?

Nope! Everyone is welcome here! Whether you have been diagnosed or not, feel free to come pull up a chair and join us! This space is inclusive and no matter your story, we would love for you to be here 


How do I navigate the sub-community?

You can find a handy guide here on how to find your way around our forum. 


I have another question…

We love questions! You can ask your questions in this thread and someone will respond to you as soon as possible.

Community Resources