How to Spot Autism in the Office (ASD)

[@tomasvoldrich]

I would add a sign: Does not ask for help unless it is really the last option, after trying everything and struggling, to not to lose feeling of having control over situation

[@EdnaBeLurking]

My manager has actually called me out on this, lol. He was like please, work WITH us. Sorry Bob, never, lol.

[@taoist32]

I am the autistic co-worker. I have had so many awkward encounters with other co-workers that they start to avoid me. For years I would not understand why. Now I know.

[@NeurodivergentMom]

I’m glad this sheds light on your experience to see it in a different way. I feel like so many events from my life also makes more sense since I found out I’m autistic. Not that it takes the pain away from the experiences but at least I understand now why.

[@LaurelxLynch]

Great video, very recognizable behavior. Haven't worked much in an office, but most of it can also be seen in other work environments. The finding connection with a co-worker, and it looking like flirting, omg. About the sudden/long toilet breaks: I often went to the toilet to get away from having to be social, to have a break from masking. It's often the only place where you can hide. I do the same at social events. I even used to when I was a kid, at home, then my parents limited my toilet time. I wasn't aware of why I often when to the toilet (with no need to use the toilet), but I understand since I discovered I am AuDHD (not "just" ADD). An other behavior which I think might be autism related: not giving compliments for what seems to be expected, not understanding compliments (yeah, just doing my job, it's what's expected of me, nothing out of the ordinary, I'm getting paid for this). Often only giving negative feedback or complaining when something goes wrong. It made me look like a bad co- worker, but I would absolutely help anyone if they'd just ask.

[@papierflieger9110]

I love this! So respectfully explained!

[@NeurodivergentMom]

Thanks for your feedback 🫶🏽

[@SusanaXpeace2u]

I feel normal but people often shy away from me. I can't understand it. I do have close friendships though. I might have ADHD. I think i'm very intuitive though, don't struggle to read cues at all, so I can tell if people are shutting me down. Maybe I'm just low status 😐

[@NeurodivergentMom]

I know how you feel about low status… the neurodivergence might be driving the social differences that are causing others to treat you in a way that gives you that feeling. It’s not ok nor pleasant. But you can turn it around. Own your differences and speak up for yourself and others like you.

[@serhanosman1308]

I can relate. I found out a few days ago I am AuDHD. I’m 38. I honestly thought you were in your 20’s! I get told I look young for my age to. Maybe that’s a hidden sign of autism 😄

[@NeurodivergentMom]

I had the same thought pass my mind! Eternal youth or eternal innocence of some sort

[@leilap2495]

I do anything to avoid being with others at work, even remotely, turning off my camera in meetings. I avoid parties, etc.

[@oliviastratton2169]

Isn't it a bit weird and invasive to be speculating about other people's mental health/neurotype at work? What's the point of this?

[@MandaPanda254]

I think the intention behind this video is to help with understanding of others, but i think the execution and advice is not well thought out, and gives some invasive advice. And the 'they are autistic and they dont know yet' is not appropriately worded

[@r_and_a]

​@@MandaPanda254agree, there's also outright misinfo like inaccurately conflating the separate neurulogical *syndrome* of rls with "stimming"

[@SmackedyDoo]

Great explanations of each behavior. Thanks!

[@NeurodivergentMom]

Glad it was helpful!

[@r_and_a]

restless leg syndrome is a neurulogical disorder NOT form of stimming & conflating the two is unhelpful at best

[@ResidentNotEvil5]

Going to reach 1.5k seems soon to be 2k, 👍

[@NeurodivergentMom]

🤞hope so!

[@digger1989]

I'm the autistic coworker. I have a nice gig now, but it's been a rough road.

[@NeurodivergentMom]

Curious... are you employed or self-employed now?

[@digger1989]

@@NeurodivergentMom Oh I'm an office drone, in office 3 days a week. They realize I'm different so they give me the oddball customers and let me do my thing w/ very little micro managing

[@digger1989]

@@NeurodivergentMom I'm an office drone, in the office 3 days a week. They realize I'm different, I came out to my boss last year. They leave me alone and assign me the oddball customers. No micro managing. It's a sweet gig.

[@digger1989]

@@NeurodivergentMom I'm an office drone, in the office 3 days per week. I'm out to my boss. They let me do what I do with minimal micro managing. They assign me the oddball customers. It's a good gig

[@leana8959]

Is it okay to diagnose people tho ?

[@r_and_a]

it's good to try to understand others but she's spreading some misinfo (restless leg syndrome is a separate neurological issue which is NOT a form of stimming) & imo comes from a patronizing perspective of wanting to help others "despite" their neurotype that's problematic

[@KristinAlayna]

Wait...we aren't supposed to say that?

[@papierflieger9110]

Whaaaat?😅

[@KristinAlayna]

Categorizing people as safe or unsafe is an autistic thing?

[@laurensa.1803]

Nah. Also a PTSD thing.

[@skittlesmash]

Stop describing me 😢 (not diagnosed )

[@waikit828]

How did you outgrow the autism? My son is 8, and I am so worried how he would take care of himself when my wife and I get older and.. pass.

[@VanessaMarieBooks]

Autism is not something you ever "outgrow." It's a difference in how our brains are wired and how we process info around us, that is not something you "outgrow." You can learn to manage it and live independently, but it's something that will always be with you. If you want to help your son, I suggest learning everything you can about autism and specifically how it manifests in your son, because everyone is different so autism is going to look different for each individual. For example, most of the signs she talks about in the video are not ones I've struggled with, but my younger brother who is also autistic, does. His autism looks way different than mine; that's why it's called a spectrum. It looks different from person to person. Learn how it presents in your son and then find ways to support him as he learns skills to become independent.

[@andrewgarcia6951]

Don't give up your day job 😂😂😂

[@NeurodivergentMom]

you too!