General Question: Stunted Social Development or Autism Spectrum?
Hello,
I have no idea if this is the right place to post this so let me know.
Throughout my childhood I was homeschooled and had bad social anxiety that was left unhelped (mostly because I didn't know how to help myself and my parents just kind of ignored it). Because of this I left the house only 2x a week to socialize (church and Awanas) and because I was so nervous and new the area I had some pretty weird behaviors and other kids avoided me like the plague.
I'm an adult now and a college graduate. I started taking college classes at 15 because of a weird state government loophole and I am excellent at job interviews and presentations (which were skills I researched and taught myself) . However, I can't form bonds with people, I have incredibly niche interests, and I find alot of one-on-one interpersonal skills exausting. I've never liked making eye contact, and I'm exausted because small talk does not feel natural and I have to script something normal to say in my head before I say it. I've always been a loner and have only had one consistent friend since childhood despite going to college for 4 years.
Is there something I'm missing? I wonder if I'm on the spectrum alot but I'm pretty high functioning.
@JessieKat
Wow, JessieKat. I am a newer listener and just came across your post. I sure do hope you're still using 7 Cups. I would love the opportunity to chat with you, so feel free to send me a message if you have an interest and if this is still a concern for you. I have some similar experiences in my past so kind of understand your feelings. Not exactly the same backstory, but I'm feeling like I might be able to empathize with your situation. In any event, be patient with me - I work full-time so usually check in over the weekends. If you aren't comfortable reaching out, know that you are not alone and that there are ways to feel less uncomfortable and to build skills that might help you as you continue to work through this thing called life! Take care.