Autistic State of Mind: The chaotic symphony of a late-diagnosed woman's mind

by Kayla Francis

I suffer from living in a neurotypical world that consistently tries to change, erase, or “cure” me in order to conform to its societal norms.

Inertia, for me, looks a lot like: not taking lunch breaks at work hyper-focusing on a task for hours at a time because I put off starting it for too long forgetting to use the bathroom or drink water feeling physically sick if I leave a task unfinished

The best way to help autistic people is to encourage them to identify their needs and ask for things that help aid those needs in the way that best fits their experience. Never assume someone can handle something just because you cannot see an immediate reaction.

Why is this such a negative question to ask? I am told to do something, and by asking “why?” I am suddenly rude and disrespectful. I think that it’s fair for me to understand the intentions and reasoning behind something I am going to do.

One trait I learned about autism was the innate sense of justice. This one connects with me so deeply. I absolutely cannot stand to see injustice around me, even if it does not directly affect me. It makes me physically ill at times.

I always overshare or don’t share enough. There is no in-between, and I still haven’t figured out how to find a good balance there.