The autistic urge to nod repeatedly during a conversation, because nodding is often easier and quicker than trying to formulate a verbal response that is likely to be well-received and finding a good time to speak it.

‘There’s just something about you that I’m drawn to. I can’t put my finger on it, but you’re such a breath of fresh air!’

Thank you! What you’re noticing is I’m Autistic and ADHD. 😎

I feel like movies and TV shows often have the loudest music but the quietest dialogue. One minute dramatic music is booming through the TV sending me into sensory overload as I rush to turn down the volume, the next minute I’m reading the subtitles and turning up the volume.

If only I could pick up social cues like I pick up song lyrics. 😎

One reason why many Autistics and ADHDers are hypersensitive to rejection is that we have experienced so much of it due to our differences and thus are all too aware of the negative consequences that often come with rejection - loneliness, ostracism, loss of opportunities, etc.

Autistic people may seem quiet at times, even when we have a lot to say. Years of being told we’re too blunt, too direct, inappropriate and more has scarred many of us to the extent that we’re perpetually terrified of saying the wrong thing and many social situations feel risky.

Don’t tell neurodivergent children and adults to ‘apply themselves’, because they already are. Instead, ‘apply’ some adjustments by asking them how you can best support them to succeed.

The ADHD talent of just taking a “few moments” to do something, then falling into a hyperfixation rabbit hole with it and hyperfocusing on that thing (and only that thing) for hours.

It’s publication day. 🥹

#GirlUnmasked

the ADHD urge to dive into an intense, deeply personal conversation with someone you met 15 minutes ago because you can’t handle small talk

Please stop judging people for using big words or using a ton of words to explain things. I’m not trying to be fancy, I often can’t think of the small words or short ways to say something.

#ActuallyAutistic

A cool thing about being autistic, for me, is being able to enjoy my interests for years (with or without breaks). I don’t abandon my interests when they’re no longer ‘cool’ or ‘trendy’. My love for them is deep, organic, pure and enduring.