Do I Have Autism?

[@GamingTheSystems1]

Ways to support this channel: Patreon: www.patreon.com/GamingTheSystems?fan_landing=true Use "Buy Me a Cup of Coffee" to make a one-time donation: www.buymeacoffee.com/HowToX Buy Merch: kzbin.info/door/iz9BpVfDYKvaNH1PH7Fxjwstore Follow Me on Twitter twitter.com/GTSContinue Use Amazon links: Retron 5 System: amzn.to/3nk3kuM Electric Duster: amzn.to/3pJhTp5 Open Slot Wire Covers: amzn.to/3RcPbsi Rack Mount Power Supply: amzn.to/3NPpKvM TESmart 16 Port HDMI Switch 60 Hz: amzn.to/39b9mGZ TESmart 8 Port HDMI Switch 60 Hz: amzn.to/3xngDLY Kinivo HDMI Switch Box (550BN): amzn.to/3NQm7FW 10-Port USB Hub: amzn.to/39ixyae Console Trays: amzn.to/3OOTzfV Wall Shelf for Handhelds: amzn.to/3I3SS01 "Vectrex table": amzn.to/39ZkmHE Wireless microphone: amzn.to/3xG04uO Lablemaker: amzn.to/3OdaOYG *DISCLAIMER: The Amazon links are affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Also, you don't have to purchase the exact thing the link leads to. If you move to another page on Amazon after clicking the link, I still get the commission, except for certain items that are excluded. Thank you for supporting my channel!

[@geekatempsplein]

It doesn't matter if you have or not autism, I just think that you are a beautiful, endearing person and it would be an honor to have you as one of my friends if I'd live in the U.S. It would be also an honor to kick butt of anyone annoying you! 😁 Greetings from France. 🙂 🙋‍♂️

[@robertlawrence9000]

I thought you had Robotism😁

[@typerightseesight]

I dropped out of psychology in college 😅

[@hw5091]

Yeah it was pretty obvious (although it's not that bad), however you being self aware something was different made it come off easier. Your videos look like you're nervous, and just doing your first few videos, so you are not comfortable enough to show your personality.... except for years and years. About the bullying shit, of course that was the reason, when people can, they will. And you didn't have anything to burn them back with, so they did. EVERYONE, with few exceptions, will do this to some extent (part of our survival), but those assholes you were describing, were just the worst of them. If you just had self confidence issues, they'd have smelled that all over you too, and would've done the same shit. Keep up with the channel, now that this is officially out, you might get some added views, and some revisits from old viewers who might look at your content in a different way.

[@jaredkustron7696]

My autistic 9 year old child watched your video. He said he loved your video, loves your game room set up, and you have the best KZbin channel! Thank you for posting this! It really made him happy to see another KZbinr with autism. He has a small channel he occasionally posts on.

[@DuPz0r]

As someone who is a Father of a 15 year old Son with Autism, the signs for your Autism was clear to me. My Son has the exact same diagnosis as you (that you read out), and he fixates on gaming and animation. He's happy with those fixations. This is one of your best videos, being transparent about your diagnosis will make more people aware and understand you. Don't change, keep making the videos that please you. 👍

[@bigrobotnewstoday1436]

The Carnivore Diet is known to heal people its eating eggs and beef for the most part. Its saturated fats that heal you. I saw a father in one of the comments on a video saying his son had aspersers and he put his son on the Carnivore Diet and he got tested six months later and no signs showed up.

[@andyfritter]

You describing your relationship with your wife was sweet, cheers to both of you

[@Oingo87]

This is def one of your best vids. I totally thought it was going to be a troll video but no. Its beautiful that you two found each other. Sometime around puberty I stopped socializing and became very nervous talking with people. I didnt know it then but years later found out I had social anxiety. It was def eye opening .

[@GamingTheSystems1]

Troll? Why I would never do a thing like that.

[@TylerAStinson]

I’m on the spectrum and subscribe to your channel it’s nice that we have people like you showing that autistic are successful people and not harmful stereotypes.

[@MidoseitoAkage]

Or be bullied by the internet because one of the norm act like a weirdo.

[@iSnortRockSalt]

"Apparently two autistic people can find souless in each other." 😂 I'm glad you've found your person. Keep killing it.

[@DP12321]

Solace

[@janX9]

​@@DP12321hahaha souless 😅

[@SmallSpoonBrigade]

Yeah, my wife and I are almost certainly. I'm hopefully getting a formal diagnosis this year. We clearly deserve each other.

[@greenmonkeygonenonparielof1718]

Im a somewhat newer viewer so im still discovering most of your content. I never had a problem with how you speak on/provide your content because its about video games which I love. This video is very important and helpful for someone who is concerned or worried about autism or someone who could be autistic. I hope youtube is or is going to be good to you to where you won't need to worry about any job after this because your channel is awesome.

[@TheRdfrota]

Very awesome content. My son is autistic. Thinking about it I might be as well. One thing I would highlight is its not really a disease you are healthy. You are just different and its ok. It is kind of a sad reality that a company would not promote you based on lack of communication skills. Sadly it's true. Our society values sly talking rather than people who actually do the actual work to move a company forward.

[@JeremyPatton]

I am an autism therapist and teacher. I think it‘s great that you are so positive with everything. Your self awareness and internalization is wonderful. Having a supportive network in your life is key! Glad you have found an outlet for your interests and hobbies! Keep it up!

[@AndreSjoberg]

This is why I love KZbin - keep them videos rollin’, they are a refreshing break from all the other crazy paced, 500 words a second brain draining stuff - an oasis of cool, calm and collected delivery and entertaining information, never change man :)

[@andre-le-bone-aparte]

Autism... or Awesome Guy, who's happily married, as a hobby that he loves, and runs a youtube channel to share his joy. -- That's what I see.

[@jamesbevan4479]

I Respect the honesty/ transparency. Its nobody else's business, but you told your story anyways. My Son's brother has autism (low functioning), and it can be hard work sometimes. My advice to interacting anyone who knows someone who has it; be patient and be articulate.

[@89simba57]

This channel surprises me of its transparency. Fresh change

[@arunca190]

Why did I start to tear when you talked about autistic people finding solace in eachother. My nephew is autistic, but it seems the world is more ready for it. He too does not like loud sounds and doesn’t react well to applause or birthday songs. He speak the same as you in that it’s almost “mechanical” and some sprinklings in mispronunciation. Pretty uncanny really and hope I didn’t offend you with that. He just turned 6 (in 2023) but gets therapy and it helps alot. I’m glad you are ok and found someone. Support and understanding is key. Sorry for the suffering and the bullies in life. They are weaker for it. You are stronger for it.

[@cheesoboy2]

I've done research and related interventions to address the underrepresentation of individuals with disabilities in STEM fields for the National Science Foundation and also helped create an Autism at Work initiative at an Air Force base. Given my background, I will say you've demonstrated behaviors (in various videos I've watched of yours) typical to the ASD community I've worked with. To your point about "could just be a nerd" when I was helping instruct/train managers/supervisors at the base so they could better understand Autism and its behaviors to better support employees with ASD, multiple after the training said "these characteristics apply to like 90% of the engineers I currently work with" and having worked at Case Western Reserve University a couple years as well, which has a huge engineering/nerd slant, the average student expressed at least a few ASD attributes. I suspect a number of students I worked with were indeed undiagnosed but again, to your point, there can be a lot of overlap for engineer/scientist types on attributes like higher preference towards analysis, introversion/some awkwardness in social situations, liking clearly defined structure/rules, etc. This video you've done is fantastic and if I were still in my prior career I'd be referring it 100% to the students I've known considering being tested and/or that have recently received a diagnosis. You also do a good job describing strengths tied to the diagnosis and honestly a lot of those same traits are what make your retro gaming videos stand out in analysis among the flood of content out there. Keep up the good work! I am sorry to hear about the bullying though. Sadly it's all too common to the stories I've heard from the countless individuals with ASD I've worked with. It's a shame more folks aren't raised to appreciate or at least be more tolerant of difference in general. I've always gotten along extremely well with the ASD community as a big sci-fi/fantasy nerd who appreciates getting in-depth information on topics I don't always have the time/skillset to compile myself.

[@markofthefonz]

I appreciate your story, my son has autism and he is going to enter the work force fairly soon and your video is very helpful in this regard. Thank you for sharing.

[@TheRetroBristolian]

The funny thing is I love your calm no nonsense way of presenting, I've enjoyed so many of your videos for your calm maybe 'quirky' style. but I can also see how 'triggering' it would be for people who have a 'bully' personality. its sad but that is there issue not yours. keep up the good work 🙂

[@AutismRocksOfficial]

"Jazz Hands!" and much love from our channel to yours. 🙌

[@ramadjones]

I'm just adding to the pile. This was a good vid. It's nice to see the honesty and openness of another netizen, and as a father of an autistic son, I hope you continue to do what brings you joy.

[@niallmccann6780]

I've a son who's autistic. It's good for me to see you do well for yourself as I've the fears, of all parents with autistic children, what will they grow to be be, hold a job have a full life. Hope, such a small word, such a large feeling

[@chicagotransitauthority3161]

I mean I have Aspergers, and it was apparent you’re on the spectrum. Great video as always

[@DoomguyAV]

Same here

[@DadDude]

You seem like a great and very normal dude. I'm so sorry to hear about all the crap those people gave you. Much love man.

[@Ren722]

I remember watching your videos in high school or middle school and although it did sound like you were autistic, I related with you so much as I wanted to start collecting video games and now I have way too much to where my whole family notices, a year ago I did get diagnosed on the spectrum and I guess it really makes sense why I have a hyperfixation towards games the same way my friend loves cars

[@HaloGrunt]

The only thing i really hate about me having Autism is people not understanding me & treating me badly

[@marcianoacuerda]

As said on the video, people can be dicks. There’s nothing to hate about yourself, it’s the dicks and bullies who have to go away!

[@Subsbench]

As I've got older (nearly 38 now) I've wondered if some of my traits are autism. I considered going to the Dr but figured it wouldn't change anything other than adding a label. Props for making a video about what must be a very personal thing for you

[@SnapCraft316]

Where many may see you as weak, I see you as a very strong individual. My son is autistic...this video gives me hope. F the haters!

[@Veganerd_]

I have nearly all of those autistic traits you talked about, including the sound part in that every sudden loud noise makes me jump involuntarily lol and like you, I also listen to heavy metal..the heavier the better most of the time. And the part about emotion, I've largely been an unemotional person, except for rare circumstances. What sucks is that psychiatrists around here (sw ohio) have not been willing to talk about autism at all. As an adult (I'm 43), I don't know where to go to get a formal diagnosis. Edit: OH! The job interviews, I am always extremely nervous and awkward during them and of course many of them were failures. I'm bad at reading people, too..

[@hiltwo]

Very brave of you to share this, thanks so much for that. I was diagnosed at 33 yeard old myself. I was working in assisted living and people wouldn't believe it (both before and after) because I was 'way too social' and love/get sarcastic and dark humor. Everyone is indeed different, I'll share some bits as well; I also love metal music (especially with female vocals), I actually thrive on constant sounds like heavy rain, fans, etc. because it drowns out all other sounds, irregular sounds drive me nuts, I also feel like sound is louder for me than for most other people (often I'm the only person in the room who hears some sounds), I'm a very emotional person, no problem with making eye contact - but dividing it up between people as I'm telling something feels very calculated. My diagnosis was a big relief and lots of things have fallen in place. For your video, my absolute favorite thing was how you backtracked to the second thing your wife told you. That was beautifully done. You're a lucky man, and I'm happy for you. And I'm not just saying that because I feel I have to ;) Now if you'll excuse me, I'm having a QuackShot phase and am going to play it for the 5th time this week.

[@InnocentSoul0283]

I recently went through the same realization and diagnostic process to learn that I have autism as well. It was something on my mind for years and honestly, it is extremely freeing to know that I'm not just inexplicably a socially awkward person but now I can explain how I see things differently. Even your work related struggles were almost identical to mine in terms of being called the expert, being told that I am not cut for management, and told that I'm going to be a grunt for the rest of my life. With this, it let me take control of my life a lot more. So congrats on the diagnosis, thank you for sharing something personal and important to you. I hope this helped you in great ways. Keep up the great videos.

[@roguedr0id]

Dude! I think it's amazing you put yourself out there and shared your diagnosis with the world. I am the proud mother of an autistic, non speaking, 7 year old boy who requires alot of support. We had him diagnosed at 3 when we decided his words were not coming back (he spoke at 8 mos old and lost his few words just before his 1st birthday). As he was being diagnosed, my husband and I both discovered some things about ourselves too during the diagnosis. I don't believe I have autism, but I definitely have sensory processing disorder and possibly ADHD, which I was diagnosed with when I was a small child but it was believed to be a misdiagnosis because I had a seizure my 1st day on Ritalin. There are other family members we knew had autism on my husband's side, and others I've kind of put two and two together on, such as my late grandfather, who never did well in social situations, was completely obsessed with football (never missed a televised game and would doodle plays on any paper he got his hands on) and would shamelessly snag any book, magazine, etc..that was within reach (including my school text books, lol). He also used to stim, especially when he was distressed. He was hella smart and had an amazing memory. My little guy reminds me a lot of him in this aspect. I cannot begin to tell you how happy you sharing your diagnosis makes my heart feel. I am all for awareness. If more people understand, I'm hopeful people will become more aware of how they interact with others and make this world more inclusive for people like my son. It breaks my heart how people discount his intelligence because of his autism, but this kid is smarter than probably even I'm aware of...and I already know he's further along than the 2nd grade work that I have him doing in 1st grade. Much love, my Neuro Diverse friend!

[@tjzambonischwartz]

Your most recent video was recommended to me by the algorithm, and while watching it I noticed, from my own lived experience as a fellow late-diagnosed autistic person, that you had CLEAR autistic body language and speech patterns. That was before even noticing your game room surroundings. I kept thinking "I hope he knows..." Came looking through your channel and found this video. Warmed my heart. As you get to understand yourself better, you'll realize 'tism radar is absolutely a thing and it makes it easier to find people who understand you.

[@Omnicollectables]

Thank you for sharing your story. Takes a lot of guts! Keep doing what you are doing! Do not let your illness define you!

[@usdms13]

It's not an illness. There's isn't a "cure". It's a mental disorder. More of a social disorder. Because autism is more evident in those situations. Brain processes are different than the typical person. Some more noticeable than others. Hence the spectrum designation.

[@isobel.eleanor]

Sucks that you get those crappy comments my guy. Made me angry on your behalf, but you seem to deal with it pretty well. Haven't seen any of your content before but I'm glad you're comfortable and happy, and you have your passions. I suspect I might be autistic too, but am not pursuing diagnosis - not sure what benefit it would have for me in truth! Keep making content and sharing your passion, and thanks for your transparency and honesty about your... issues seems like the wrong word, so insert a better one when you read this :) All the best!

[@misterboost4446]

As the father of 2 Autistic boys I just wanted to say thank you for sharing your story. I love your honest and positive outlook this was an awesome video. Awareness is so important when it comes to ASD, so people sharing their experiences educating others is the best thing we can all do to help those with ASD live a better life and have a more positive experience.

[@unrat87]

Great video Kevin! I saw quite some similarities to me and my personal life, although I did not get tested myself. Only got tested positive for adhd as a child, but there might be some similarities to autism too... anyway, really enjoy your videos, keep up the good work, you are one of my fave retro video game channels. greetings from Germany

[@GamingTheSystems1]

Greetings from America!

[@jeice13]

Autism seems pretty common in certain sections of youtube creation. Medieval and tech stuff are where ive noticed it specifically

[@VinePest]

So cool of you to share that! I always thought there was a special amount of care and detail going into your hobbies and manner of speaking and I think it sets you apart from other creators; it's that special something that has made your content memorable and has kept me coming back. I also watched a few scenes you shot together with your wife and somehow you seemed made for each other; it's not the usual emotionally outgoing gamer couple that you find portrayed (possibly staged) on other channels. I never gave it much thought and I don't judge people, I enjoy their originality first and foremost. However, it really does all make sense now. Thanks again for opening up!

[@robintst]

I similarly started to suspect I was on the spectrum due to a loved one also, my youngest niece is autistic and spending time around her as she got older is where I started to notice that she was developing so many of the same specific little isms and behavior patterns that I did in that same age rage of early-teens. Turns out my suspicions were true, I was sought out autism testing and got the official diagnosis earlier this year. It's been very eye-opening and helped me really put my life thus far into perspective as I enter my 40s. One thing that will never change though is my lifelong love for video games and that's something most anyone can share in together regardless.

[@eukat3ch]

You make a lot of sense, i have PTSD and severe anxiety, i have a lot of the same symptoms that you explain. though the emotion side is of the scale on my part. Thank you for this video.

[@idk-zj4cz]

I've never been diagnosed but I've suspected I might be autistic for a few reasons although I never realized that sensitivity to sound was a symptom. Sounds make me jump super easily to the point where it becomes a problem because it happens almost everytime a co-worker talks to me. Most of the time it causes laughter but I find it more stressful than funny.

[@TheBrokenTech]

I'm sure the jumpiness is a symptom for a lot of autistic people, but it's a symptom for a lot of regular people too. I long ago learned to gently knock on someone's desk if I need their attention rather than shoulder tap them or "Hey there!"... I don't think I've ever seen anyone startled by it. You could ask your coworkers to do the same? Personally... I hate having my back to open room for pretty much exactly that reason. I always try to get a seat with my back to a barrier so I can see who is approaching...

[@TehOneTrewIdjut]

In the future I’m going to type a long comment in my notes app and then post it. I swear I don’t do this anywhere else. The thing about family events. I have always found a corner to hide in. When my girlfriend and I go to her family events, I hide with her nephews and play video games. She recently asked me to talk to her first so she can determine a “polite” time for me to disappear.

[@EXWiz4rd]

Came here from Redcow. Good for you dude, I’m glad you had the courage to get tested and now you know. Subscribed

[@shanegreen2933]

I was one of the guys saying that I am also autistic. You reminded me of myself. I also did not find out until adulthood. I mostly assumed your diagnosis by your speech pattern and what you focus on talking about especially in your channel splitting video. I also suspect you have the ability to hyperfocus. That usually gets lumped into ADHD, but a lot of autistic people seem to have that as well.

[@samusvikerness661]

1:57 Bruh… that hair. Lmao Great video man. This is why I keep watching you man. Talking about having autism over footage of Forgotten Worlds. Yes

[@PretentiousHipster]

Great video. A diagnosis might not change much in the grand scheme of things, but like you said, it does provide a sense of closure and you start to realize how some issues came to be, and if needed you can learn to work around them. I'm bipolar, and my psychiatrist said I'm also teetering on the edge of schizophrenia. Perhaps not enough for a diagnosis, but psychosis does happen quite often and I take schizophrenic meds as well. Even during the medication adjustment period, just the diagnosis was enough for me to finally get into a relationship. I realized what got in the way (I'd usually get manic, or even get psychosis if dates went well previously, and it was obv scare dates away), how to detect the signs of said episodes, and how to work around them. Unfortunately, stuff still gets in the way. I don't think I can work full-time again in my life, but it's something I've learned to accept.

[@JDHutchison]

I really appreciate this video. My wife has been going through a very similar journey you did. She’s don’t the assessment and we are waiting on the results. Her therapist is confident she’s somewhere on the spectrum. I’ve been supportive and doing my best to understand. But it’s been a journey for me to to fully get what she is experiencing. She’s had me read books or watch videos - most of which I have trouble relating to (they are dry or are targeted to people actually experiencing symptoms). Your video legitimately helped me a little bit there. It’s easily digestible, and your analogies were good. Thank you.

[@jeromebouffard]

I have worked with many autist person in my life and i have always have a blast learning from them and i was always enjoying their dark humor. Some people can't just accept then some person are just a bit different. People can be jealous. Great video, thanks for life sharing experience.

[@asymptoticspatula]

I love your channel, and I love this video. You are an awesome guy. lol I laughed so hard at that Mario 2 clip at the end. I hated hearing about all the bullying you suffered. My wife has mentioned to me a number of times that I might be "on the spectrum" (sorry, I hate that phrase). I don't know. I've never been tested but I certainly have experienced a few thing you mentioned. I definitely have a similar thing with sounds, and for me lights are always too bright. If I lived alone my house would be kept very dark. The intensity of the light just hurts my brain always. Anyway, again, great video and very informative and accepting in tone.

[@joncellini]

Thanks for sharing that. I’m a parent or two autistic children and it gave me another perspective to try and understand them and how they experience the world.

[@CLINTSTER77COX]

Ok I fought so many bullies in my life . Self defense became my out . I beat the crap out of some of them . Because of my demeanor I was an easy target. It happens so often I wound up dropping out of school, but then went to college figure that out

[@dynastymusou8906]

First off, I would like to say that you have a lovely wife and you seem happy together in the photos you showed. Secondly, I was diagnosed with a form of autism as well about 10 years ago. I am 34 now. At first I thought of it as some sort of sickness or abnormality; that I was different than other people in a negative way. I fixated on video games, movies and TV-shows and didn't really do much else. At that time I was unemployed so there was plenty of time for those things. Like you, certain things about me such as not crying at funerals, being very sensitive to sound (especially sounds that wake me up give me a headache when it's too sudden) and having very little interest in socializing at gatherings or parties are a good way of knowing that autism is a part of me. Over time however, I have come to the realization that having autism isn't a bad thing at all. At least, not all forms of autism. Because there is definitely a big variety when it comes to the severity of one's autism. Some people are highly-functioning while others require constant care and attention. Your video right here is very informative to those who believe they might be in the spectrum of autism as well as to those who already know they are. I would like to thank you for it. On the topic of video games, are there any autistic traits you can spot when reflecting on yourself and the way you collect or play? Personally, for instance, I always try to support a console for as long as possible. Buying The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild for Wii U instead of Switch or Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag on PlayStation 3 instead of PlayStation 4 even though I already own the 'superior' console are good examples of that. Another one I often see myself doing is sorting my games by release order instead of alphabetically. I have a hard time with games such as the next Forza Motorsport just being called that instead of Forza Motorsport 8, as it should be titled. If I sorted my games alphabetically that would mean it would come before Forza Motorsport 5, 6 and 7 on my shelf even though it released years later. Once again, thanks for the video and keep it coming! Both your channels are looking good! 👍🏻

[@GamingTheSystems1]

I'm not sure if my autism affects my game playing. I do get addicted to certain online first person shooters, and end up playing them for months and months. Normal people do that too though. I do feel guilty spending so much time on one game when I have a shelf of 2,000 games in the other room.

[@dynastymusou8906]

@@GamingTheSystems1 Well, playing games thoroughly but being slow about getting through the collection is a better scenario than playing 2.000 games for an hour each, I would say. 😉

[@Veganerd_]

@@dynastymusou8906 I have a similar scenario, got around 1,000 (not counting steam lol) games in my library and just.. so many I haven't played yet because I've been so stuck on World of Warcraft and a bit of D3. And of course I'll be preordering D4 this week.. so we'll see how much time I sink in to that one. 😅

[@TheBedtimeBoy]

I love that you’re sharing more about yourself, it makes the channel much more interesting (not that I wasn’t a fan before)

[@avk2111]

Great video. Leaving a comment for the algorithm engagement.

[@GamingTheSystems1]

Yo!

[@matthewsommerville88]

I too was recently diagnosed at 35. My wife also was the one to first mention it and encourage testing. It seems super common for us to totally doubt it as a possibility for a long time while also having that pervasive outsider feeling lol…knowing is very liberating

[@JMTrains1]

Thank you for sharing and expanding our understanding!

[@TehOneTrewIdjut]

My daughter describes her issues with sounds exactly like you do. I need to get her tested. On the line about your music taste, my daughter has that in common with you too. If she enjoys a genre of music she doesn’t react badly to it. If it’s something she doesn’t enjoy it literally makes her have a panic attack. The production of the music matters too. She prefers lo-fi and music without high tones. She’s 14 and her mother died last year. She did not cry at the funeral. She cried a little privately, but not a lot.

[@GamingTheSystems1]

Good luck with the testing. As far as music, I don't have any adverse reaction to any unless it's really loud. I also have a strong dislike for Country, no matter how loud it is.

[@dhsmrmgbdjemdg5673]

Just discovered your channel, loved the video! Also autistic, hope that you keep making videos. Definitely gonna watch your back catalogue now.

[@noemedmedia]

Kevin is back, with his "back from the dead" channel! I love your videos about *whatever*, keep them coming! And for those who are NOT overly analytical, he's really playing the YT game on a deep level. For some of us, he says it right there "..for views". Going public with your diagnosis is something lots of creators could do, but they don't. Kevin know controversy sells. He "shuttered" this channel last year, after many many years of analysis - a real bomb! - but keeps posting videos. If it sounds like I'm against this practice, think again! I am a big fan of Kevin and this channel - no other creator have had me watching ALL their videos. As for the diagnosis itself, I may never accrue the amount of consoles Kevin has, but

[@GamingTheSystems1]

Thanks for the comment. Just to clarify, the channel was never shuttered, or declared as so. I converted it from a "main" channel to a part time one.

[@phrasheekwerk354]

dave plummer (ex microsoft employee) has autism, did a video and posted a link to a preliminary psychology test for autism assessment. his channel is called dave's garage.

[@FlavourFool]

I like you, and I'm happy you and your wife found each other.

[@TheMultiGunMan]

Thank you for sharing this with us. It takes a lot of guts to open up like this.

[@Ultimategc13]

This is one of the best videos I have seen on KZbin or anywhere to date. I really appreciate your courage to open up about Autism. I pray you continue to make videos and do what you enjoy. The story about you and your wife is amazing! Good looking couple!

[@BohemianRaichu]

Fantastic, another recurit for my autist army. Your progress at workplaces is exponential rather than linear. It's better I think.

[@maxrichards5925]

As someone with autism I can relate with your story about how I thought different from others except my parents never told me I was diagnosed until last year, so for the longest time I was under the impression that I never had autism even though my friends could immediately tell months before my parents told me. I can also relate to that part with emotions I struggled to really bring out emotions. I’m not exactly sure if I could relate to that bullying, but the couple of times I was bullied, I remember not being able to know what to do in those situations. As for relationships, I didn’t try enough & it’s lead me to depression after a break up. I won’t blame that on autism alone, but I’m feeling better about it now. Thanks a lot for your insight with your experience with autism :)

[@GamingTheSystems1]

Thanks for sharing your experiences.

[@JolliAllGenGamer]

My son is autistic so you telling more about your experiences with it is good to know.

[@fredtim9232]

I came into this video as a meme but this was really wholesome. Good video, stranger.

[@bricegraham8256]

Sometimes I wonder what goes through peoples sick twisted minds to want to bully you just because you act different or are weak. That shit disgust me and I hope those people meet their maker some day.

[@GamingTheSystems1]

To put it simply, I think they sense weakness and want to take advantage. That trait may be imbedded within us all, but only a handful actually act on it.

[@bricegraham8256]

@@GamingTheSystems1 That sounds about right. It's still stupid that people are like that. We're all tryna win at this damn rat race. But I suppose people just wanna cut others down just to feel a sense of superiority. Thanks for making this video, it relates to me too cause I have autism. Luckily most of the severe traits were left behind as a kid. But when I was younger I was sensitive to sounds like loud engines, vacuums etc. I had a tendency to line up all my toy cars. And I would go on and on about things that I like. Nowadays I'm not as sensitive to engines (I'm actually a mechanic lol, how ironic). And I always try to make sure that I give other the floor to speak. Sometimes loud noises catch me off guard and I jump, but if I'm expecting it then it wont bother me as much. That's what helped me getting over engines revving. Me actually starting up a car and revving it myself helped a lot. People would sometimes pick on me but never to to level that you were bullied. I'm sorry you had to deal with that. It seems like things gotten a lot better for you these days and you found the love of your life. I'm still hunting for the love of my life.

[@MichaelRGibson]

I have someone in my life like this and this video was very helpful for me. Thank you for sharing and the information that this video contained.

[@TheBrokenTech]

It's always fun finding out things that would have been extremely nice to know a few decades before you found out. 😂 I have a condition where one eye will wonder if I try to focus on something in the near-field, like reading a book. This went undetected until I was in my mid-20s (after a decade of wearing glasses) and half way through college. That includes being held back a year in elementary school and doing very poorly the rest of the way through. I didn't _really_ get the hang of reading until the computer era (where you sit much further away from the text). After my childhood optometrist retired, it took the next guy all of about 20 minutes to catch it. The schools never did anything to check my vision, and since I didn't know anything different, I didn't know anything was wrong. When I told him my story, he was pretty shocked... Anyhow, good times... 🤣

[@GamingTheSystems1]

Nice to hear from you again Broken. I for one think they should do a whole body scan of everyone in the population. I know there are not the funds to do that, but it would be nice to know about things before things get worse (like tumors).

[@TheBrokenTech]

@@GamingTheSystems1 We always had regular check-ups and everything as kids. In my case, I'm not sure that anything short of a second opinion would have done any good, and if the first opinion is that everything is fine, why would you seek a second one? That kind of taught me the lesson that if something isn't right, asking more questions/people won't hurt.

[@nickwallette6201]

Love it. I think it's super helpful when someone finds out something like this. It doesn't change anything at all about them -- nothing new _happened_ to you, you just now understand more about yourself. That gives you a better set of tools to navigate everyday life, which, frankly, we could all use. I'm also a little iffy on how we label these things "disorders," or talk about them as divergent from "neurotypical" people. The more I learn about people, the more I feel like we're _all_ divergent in some way -- it's just a matter of scale. And... and... people with autism and (e.g.) ADHD have really beautiful, unique qualities. We are truly better off with them in our ranks. The social aspects can be a little challenging, but as someone who is not (that I know of) autistic, but have relationships with people who are (or, in some cases, I think may be), those people are very dear to me. Speaking of which.. As you get older, the things you look for in friends and romantic partners start to change. Not to put too fine a point on it, but -- as a former kid, I feel I'm qualified to make this assessment: Kids are idiots. ;-D OK, that's an exaggeration, but boy does experience with humankind teach us some things. So it is not at all surprising that someone like our host found someone he clicks with, later in life. If anyone reading this is having a hard time with that as a young person, just wait... Much love to both of you, and all the other weirdos out there, from a fellow social weirdo (without an officially diagnosed excuse.)

[@DevgamerGaming]

I've been checking out your content regularly for about 9 months now. My thoughts on your presentation style is you are concise, to the point and clear. I enjoy your work and I enjoy the passion you share for retro gaming. Glad to hear you are getting some answers you may have been wondering about for some time. I personally appreciate the opening up about yourself, only gives more dimension to what you do here and makes you even more likeable imho.

[@tsuikagura]

One thing definitely helps you, the people around you and especially your wife in all of the hardships or unusual situations you have to face. Your humor :D I wish you two happy merry days to come.

[@ReaperCH90]

This was very interesting for me who is not on the spectrum. It's nice to see an autistic person on the Internet who does very well for himself for once.

[@tawadavidson6383]

Great vid Kev, been loving your channel lately all the way from Adelaide South Australia!

[@GamingTheSystems1]

Greetings from America!

[@SuperFam12345]

This video has xome at the right time for me.... Iv been struggling with mental health to a point that drastic measures were nearly taken on my behalf.... Doctors are now checking me for autism due to my drastic action.

[@marcianoacuerda]

Have been around for years with people on the spectrum in my family and I never thought you had autism. The experience I’ve had is very different 😮, it really show how varied it can be!

[@MidoseitoAkage]

19:25 Did you know that despite the Doki Doki Panic characters belong to Fuji TV, it is still a game made by Nintendo itself? It was a prototype game for a Mario game and almost canceled it before a festival came out and they've decied to turn into Doki Doki Panic. Edit: I am also in the autism spectrum, but mostly in the asperger one.

[@kieronandrews1553]

Thanks for sharing. A very honest look into autism.. Great video

[@BobPharmacon]

Even if you are, the way you talk on it. You won't suffer❤

[@Redmage913]

I was misdiagnosed with bipolar II as a mid-teen, and the symptoms never quite truly fit. Nine months ago, at age 35, I was diagnosed autistic after an anomalous ADHD test, combined with a few therapy sessions. The therapist said “I could tell simply by looking at you in the waiting area”. I was in the corner, not engaging except when necessary, on my hacked 3DS. My diagnosis was completely unexpected, though at this point my brain has reindexed my memories and realized oh yes, definitely autistic. I am so thankful that chance and happenstance led to this discovery. I always felt like an alien too, and societal things like religion have always made zero sense to me. I’m just relieved I finally have the answer to “what’s ‘wrong’ with me”. I wish you good luck from this point forward! It won’t be an easy road, but you might find your path slightly more illuminated as you learn more about yourself and how you interact with society.

[@Phutlikka]

Thank you for opening to us your fan base Kevin, I've felt all my life I was different so you are very relatable to me. You are still a top bloke! Informative and funny keep on keepin on my mate. 👍🏻

[@1982markjm]

Good for you man, it was a very interesting watch and you were so candid with the effects on your personal life. I think people have grown more accepting of others who act differently over the years. The 90s were indeed rough but I feel like since the 2000s a lot of knowledge and proper diagnosis has lead to a more empathetic society in general.

[@SHUPIRATE1991]

You and your wife are beautiful people. I found this entertaining and enlightening. Wish you all the best!!

[@Jerry4050]

I believe I have Dyslexia I have a hard time reading and when people hear me talk they think I just woke up and feeling tired all the time but that's just me. I do talk in a slow manner thats why its hard for me a get regular job and I would prefer to work at night. It's very encouraging to show your results in the public

[@KeMiZe44]

Based on the video you have everything in the world any man can ask for. A beautiful wife, a hobby to invest in, an education, and the confidence to be yourself and talk about it. I admire you.

[@gtssage]

New subscriber here. You seem to be a highly functional autistic. I work with another highly functional autistic person in a professional environment , and this person is truly amazing at their job but yet I can't help notice certain behavior traits. Ive also dated a highly functional autistic person. Just like any other person, relationships are a work in progress. I appreciate your honesty and candor. By the way, I am a 48 year old who grew up with Atari 2600/odyssey 2. Love your content.

[@TheGameroomAwakens]

Autism and Legendism...Great combo Kev! Great job on the video. Love your work. 😁👍

[@paulwilliams7816]

I like the analogy you used from the Simpsons about the crayon made me laugh

[@michaelknight8459]

I notice as I got older, people respected me more too. I never got tested for autism but was tested when I was little and said to have ADHD and was put on Ridelin. I hated the way it made me feel and told my parents and they said I had to take it and would not listen to me so I would spit the pills down the sink.

[@Renozable]

Much respect for opening to this personal topic! Keep going mate, you got great content going on.

[@Reaperman4711]

A lot of this hits a little close to home. At work we semi-jokingly call it 'being into I.T.,' as our field seems to concentrate certain traits the higher up one goes, and we're high-level nerds. example: 'Don't mind new-guy, he's good, but a bit 'INTO I.T.'-he'll fit in eventually' 🙄 We do need a clean mental health record for the job, so we'd never actually get examined like this

[@chiissu]

I got some autism too but am pretty high functioning. I often go to Yugioh Tournaments with my homies and many of them got it too. I at times have faux pas but that's usually because I don't care instead of not understanding it. I do got some good skills like listening to a guy putting cards down to power shuffle and counting it by sound and knowing obscure things. I too clashed with kids in grade school and had no friends but in high school I changed my style and tried to be a nice guy like Quatre from Gundam Wing and made friends. I even met this chick who's become my gf after high school and we talk every day. She's probably got some autism with her DBZ obsession but is kinda ditzy and innocent. Glad you found love and got over those issues. Also KZbin helped me make friends and find guys with similar interests, as did Yugioh.

[@AsurasWrath164]

Im on the spektrum as well and maybe that's the reason I like how you speak so slow, but clearly. I HATE it when ppl on KZbin don't put the effort into informing themselves how to properly pronounce something and immediately go into troll mode in the comments. A few minutes later I realise how stupid it was what I did, but just can't help myself in that moment. The same feeling you had, feeling alien, which I still have, drove me into depression and into lifelong drug addiction including heroin. My wife and my children helped me to get my shit together. At the age of 2 years my wife said that something is wrong with our daughter and when she turned 8 she and I made that autism test because my wife said that both of us behave the same way. Both of us were diagnosed with autism spektrum disorder.

[@TylerMBuller12]

Now I'm starting to think I have autism a lot of these symptoms relate to me. Honestly on a social level I struggle a ton that's like my biggest limiting factor. I feel it has taken away certain opportunities for me because I just can't get passed it. I quit my last job due to it.

[@bananonymouslastname5693]

I really enjoy how much you just steer into whatever people put on you. The transparency and ownership makes it just become interesting. I expected that you were autistic, and mentioned why in your poll post. My wife is a learning consultant and spent many years with our local special school district. I have a college background in education. One of my closest friends has Asperger's Syndrome, and exhibits some similar traits as well, and I also have had quite a few employees on the spectrum over the years. Everything about your presentation says autism to me. I don't mean that in any negative way. Sharing a hobby with an autistic person, especially a friend, has advantages. The perspective is different, and the enthusiasm can be contagious. My buddy is the opposite of you in some ways... instead of being less emotional, he's heavily emotional and sensitive. However, he has an enthusiasm for video games, movies, and other hobbies that can make things more fun. He can also be exhausting at times, but when you love your friends, you love the whole person, and everything that they bring with them. Autistic or not, you're still you, and your detail and curiousity makes you a fun person with which to share a hobby, even if it's really just one-sided through video. I hope you find ongoing and increasing success.

[@livejay9062]

Thank you for this video! I very recently started watching this channel, and suspected it after a couple videos. Pertinentaly regarding my guess, I used to work as a caregiver for kids on the spectrum. Congratulations on finding out, as I believe it's a great opportunity to understand your life with fresh perspective.

[@zachtwilightwindwaker596]

I know I do. That could explain why I went into different classrooms that most people don't go to because I'm different.

[@thrillretrogamer9801]

Congratulations. Everyone is on the spectrum, don't worry and accept you are normal.

[@Beirdo267]

I'm going through an assessment at the minute. But being in the UK I've been waiting 3 years so far. Glad you've got closure though and now you can try and make sense of the world.