Italy "cures" my Autism (+ LIFE UPDATE)

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#OliviaHops #ActuallyAutistic #SkillShare

[@AForestCreature]

I felt the same when I went on a solo trip to Norway in May. I felt significantly less stressed. I didn’t have to mask around the Norwegians by making small talk, smiling at people that look in my direction, etc. It was so nice. There was also less sensory overload there. No flashing lights, huge billboards, less options in the grocery store, it was nice. I also got to be in nature alone and being in nature makes me feel more grounded. I’ve never felt so calm before. I plan to move to either Norway, Germany, or the Netherlands in a couple of years. It will be challenging, but I dislike it here so much.

[@theoldaccountthatiusedtous6767]

I went on a solo trip to Norway a number of years ago... I didn't articulate it that way, but I felt... more real. I felt the normal range of human emotion, I never felt like I was stuck in one feeling or the other for a long time. It didn't stick when I returned home to the life I was trying to create and the job I dreaded, but I started doing solo trips even close by (eg backpacking in the summer), to remind myself that this exists for me. That I can temporarily run away from my anxiety, and that one day I'll be in a healthier place emotionally. Maybe I should see if there's any way for me to run away to a healthier place physically... ie another country. I never thought I could do it because of my work-related anxiety, but maybe in another country, trying to hold down a job would feel different.

[@aad7451]

Where do you live now? I also hate it here. Wish I could move to Europe

[@AForestCreature]

@@aad7451 I live in Georgia, USA and it’s getting super crowded here. The commercial system is getting worse and work-life balance is almost nonexistent because big companies are moving their businesses here because of cheaper taxes compared to states like California and New York. It’s ridiculous.

[@AForestCreature]

@@theoldaccountthatiusedtous6767 I don’t think it could hurt to try. You deserve to be physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy. The USA is just not where people like us are meant to thrive. Personally I’d rather be herding sheep and own a couple of cows, and other farm animals.

[@ritab5153]

I understand what you mean, Lena. "Less options in the grocery store". really resonates with me.

[@Dulcimerist]

I feel more comfortable in a foreign country, since not being a foreigner and not fluent in the language, I'm expected to be somewhat socially awkward. As a result, I don't get mentally exhausted due to not needing to use my energy on masking. It feels so liberating! It's interesting that you mentioned feeling like you want to jump out of your skin and feel like it's crawling. Restless leg syndrome often feels like that, and it was a restless leg syndrome medication (Mirapex/Pramipexole) that managed to cut through some of my autistic traits. It's a dopamine agonist (boosts dopamine activity), and I wonder if low dopamine somehow plays a role in autism.

[@jodieflute5480]

Your experience growing up in Italy sounds so very familiar to my childhood in the Netherlands. The way you described the cultural difference is spot on and how I feel going back to Holland. I feel like I different person there. More relaxed and in my own skin.

[@Dani68ABminus]

I am German but moved to the States in my twenties back in the early 90s. My happy place growing up was Italy as well. Even going back to Germany after a decade in the US felt like I had entered a calmer, more humane environment.

[@kellygarnet6329]

That is great that you were able to recognize the warning signs and were able to avoid a meltdown. That is a huge accomplishment. Your ring is gorgeous but more importantly it sounds like Alex is a wonderful partner.

[@Milklatte]

Have you considered relocating to Italy or some other country where your life would be more chilled in general and help yourself that way? Thanks for sharing your experience and all the best with wedding planning but! Don't get over exhausted by all the details. Its your day :)

[@avgirlaustintx]

Man you are lucky to get to go to Italy and know the place like that. My ancestors are from Italy and I always wanted to go there. I just haven't figured out how to do it yet, like money, passports, etc. it's overwhelming.... maybe someday!

[@LionessHiker]

I get hangry and have always had trouble with cigarette smoke as well. I would have had to leave as I have asthma too. Just the smell of smoke on clothing is more than I can bear. Please don’t apologize. You shared what is going on in your life and we all identify with at least parts of your story in our own lives. I think we have a deep desire to be accepted by others like us because we have not fit in with the neurotypical majority. You handled that dinner situation much better than I could have! Kudos to you.

[@dianathomas2674]

Same here, with cigarette smoke. My airways start clogging up just from walking behind someone who's smoking. Or wearing excessive amount or perfume. Or any perfume, depending on the brand. Hang in there...

[@LionessHiker]

@@dianathomas2674 I can’t attend church because of all the people who think bathing on perfume or cologne is cool.

[@dianathomas2674]

@@LionessHiker that's dreadful. I can relate. Public transport is a nightmare. Especially now that you cannot cough.

[@sitathisfeet5797]

@@LionessHikerLikewise. I end up with a scratchy throat and runny nose which is uncomfortable. Also, the bright lights at my church and many churches are an issue. So I watch from home : )

[@LionessHiker]

@@sitathisfeet5797 I do the same!

[@charlottehodgson5093]

Olivia, I have been following you for some time now as my gorgeous granddaughter was diagnosed with Asperger's a few years ago now. You speak to me!! I see the behaviours you talk about in my 12 year old granddaughter and we have pointed her in the direction of this channel so she can learn from you and you can be a role model for her. She cannot cope with attending school so has online learning, at the moment. Thank you for having the courage to start a channel and speak from your heart. I applaud your bravery and with you every step of the way. Go girl :)

[@kaylarhodes8697]

Thank you for raising awareness for autism on your channel. I’ve found it very useful in coming to understand myself. I’ve watched all of your videos. I am a 27 year old woman who was recently diagnosed with autism and ADD. I had known I was different since preschool but I could never figure out why so I hid it. This resulted in depression starting in high school which also went undiagnosed until my 20s.I only figured out I was autistic because I’m dating an autistic man who recognized the traits in me which led me to finally get diagnosed. The diagnosis makes my life finally make sense. I really wish I had known earlier. I hope by raising awareness, other girls and women will get recognized and diagnosed sooner than we did. I thought something was horribly wrong with me but it turns out, I’m just autistic and that’s ok

[@JAMESGREGORYKULP1985]

That is really cool Olivia that you have been to Italy. I have always wanted to at least travel outside of the United States of America. I have half Greek and German and Scottish. My last name Kulp comes from Scotland. I am 37 years old. And I am.on the Autism spectrum I have PDD-NOS. But I was born here in the united states of America. I was born in Montgomery Maryland. But I moved to Waynesboro, Pennsylvania. In July of 1990 and I was born on march 29th 1985.

[@andrejka_talking_out_loud]

First, never apologize for your videos. We are here because not only the information but ALSO for your presence, your thought process of how you experience things.. and just to visit. Thank you for showing up and sharing. It helps me realize my situation where the landlord roommate smokes up the house with burned oil smoke. I asked him if he could open a window and he blames me and puts all the burden of his indoor air pollution upon me. During the day and evenings I am prepared, I have fans or set it up once the smell starts.. yet one time he started a big oil burning thing at 11 pm after I had gone to bed.. honestly, I feel I could have hurt somebody. So in this bad neighborhood I went for a walk just to calm down and get fresh air.. while I stay away from medical diagnoses hearing about your experience shed some light upon me. What adds to the emotion are how everyone blames me for the smoke.. my friend is like "a landlord is going to do whatever " and other people are like "landlords have the toughest situation" .. and my landlord has only been renting out for less than six months. Folks just think because I am speaking up that I must be the problem and that it is up to me to fix the air.. when in fact OSHA, HUD and the ADA would fine the culprit.

[@southernauslanlearner544]

Sounds like time for you or your roommate to move out.

[@andrejka_talking_out_loud]

@@southernauslanlearner544 i have most everything in storage and have a trip scheduled in four days. It has to be me because it is the landlord that is causing the uninhabitable situation.

[@Wifeyfolifey]

THAT RING IS GORGEOUS my goodness! Congratulations girly, thanks for showing us the bling 🤩✨

[@georgiagirl1986]

Olivia 💯. I grew up a large portion of my childhood in Germany; your Italy is my Germany.

[@pezsworld2909]

I like this video just the way it is. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us. It was fun to hear about everything.

[@sitathisfeet5797]

Likewise! 🤗

[@meme8540]

I just watched Paul’s ( Autism from the Inside) newest video on how he always seemed to feel less stress when away from Australia aka a foreigner. Enjoyed your video and Best Wishes on your engagement!!

[@charlottewood2102]

I love the fact that you could identify meltdown triggers and avoid the meltdown. I don’t have meltdowns very often but this identifying and avoiding them is definitely a goal of mine :-) thanks for sharing the detail so I can understand :-) This was a really informative video actually! It’s the day to day detail that gives a good picture of what autism is like for you, and that is what helps me :-)

[@cathiesmith0812]

Please don't apologize. You were very informative.

[@jenniferrivera7087]

It was informative, I think my 19 year old son is autistic and you are helping me to understand him. Thank you very much and God bless.

[@corrierou7768]

Paul from Autism from the inside was taking about the foreigner strategy last week. I'm wondering if that might be part of why it's more enjoyable in Italy for you? With the exception of the smoke smell; That sounds terrible! In a nutshell there's no pressure to "fit in", or need for masking, since there's no expectation to fit into a totally different culture. You can simply just relax and enjoy yourself without worry.

[@steinrunottastefansdottir1057]

I started watching your videos to inform my self about autism. My younger daughter was diagnosed 2 years ago at the age of 12. Now I just watch your videos because I like them alot! The great thing about them are those casual talks that explain to us more than you think. So for me and my daughter this f.ex. Was VERY informative ❤Daily struggles, real life, meltdowns, dreams and being the best version of your self. I also lived in northen Italy for a year in 2001 to learn italian. I love Italy! Even if Iceland has a lot og nature and calmness, Italy has a part of my heart 🇮🇸🇮🇹 Thanx for all your brilliant videos 🥰

[@elisabethryder4006]

Gut problems... horrible indecision... finding peace in a different culture... Can relate with many things you've said here. Happy to have found your channel and see some more neurodiversity topics on your channel. If you don't know HowToADHD, I highly recommend her channel as she has some great videos on ADHD and other topics, too. I love how your eyes just bounce around everywhere, much like mine will if doing anything in front of a camera or people. Thanks for the update, hope your wedding, has or will go quite well. Have a blessed week, too. ❣

[@charliemopps4926]

My wife and I had roughly 100 guests at our wedding. It cost us about $3k. Mostly on the food. We had the actual ceremony in a local nature conservatory. They charged a total of $100 for the day lol

[@Anna.Maria.Muller]

What a lovely start to your lives together, to be yourself and relaxed.

[@nancyjohnson9783]

Don’t apologize! This video was very informative. I appreciate so much that you put yourself out there so the rest of us can better understand autism. Hugs. You are terrific.

[@sandralantau7395]

Please don't apologise for your video's content. I loved this video and found it personally interesting because you threw in tidbits here and there about your childhood and your life and why you sought an autism diagnosis ...

[@alexadellastella5247]

it is common for autistic people to feel better abroad! cos they are foreigner anyway so people treat them with less judgment naturally and more social mistakes are naturally allowed which takes away a lot of stress from us :) I love living abroad too!

[@beimkohlehydrat2455]

re the smoking: i live in austria and also have the impression that instead of people smoking less it gets more and more each year. i am especially sad that young people are making that same unhealthy decision that their elders did. i hate it, i am highly sensitive to smoke (i also have COPD) and my lungs seize up if someone even just has smoke hanging in their clothes. i have trouble going outside in the city as all the many smokers now smoke outside, going about their business. smoke is everywhere.

[@AxelC2020]

Glad to have you back ☺️

[@nutskers]

I was lucky enough to know I could not find peace through productivity, but unfortunately for 30+ years, in this culture, and without knowing I was autistic, I was branded lazy. I still struggle with this nagging feeling of passiveness and needing rest as being bad traits, as a lot of Americans do. I am lucky I was smart enough to take care of myself and found my accepting partner at an early age so I found happiness in the bubble I was able to create. Autism diagnosis in my late 40s is still a breakthrough for my own self-acceptance.

[@teribartusek1125]

Welcome back !!! So glad you had a great time!! Remember to pray about the venue, knowing He will lead you to the best one for you all!! You shared some very important and enlightening info about changing the environment when you need to. THat IS huge!! SO THANKS AGAIN! ITS so good to see you again!!! 💓 God bless you too!!!! Looking forward to our session when you're ready to reschedule...No Pressure!!!! Pictures from Italy when you have time to share!

[@monikastuckey8737]

Glad you had a great time! Hope you find your venue soon.

[@silverymoon5516]

When you talk about how you are doing/how you cope with different things it is still very informative.

[@deborahhope9094]

Olivia, I think this video was informative and fun. So happy to hear you’re getting married!

[@Stella_Blue1972]

Now I want to go to Italy and eat pastries, bread and Gelato. What is it about white foods and carbs? Yum yum. I am sorry you had to deal with the smoke, I hate it when im overcome with smells. For me it's perfume, I am super sensitive to all smells but especially perfume and cologne. Once it hits you hard like that it's pretty bad, not just "this stinks " but "this has poisoned the very essence of my soul and I will have this odor stuck in my nose for the next 6 hours ". I'm so glad you had a good trip, it's wonderful to get a change of scenery from time to time. God bless you and your fiance

[@orionkelly]

You’re getting married in Italy! Amazing! I’ve never been. Any room in your luggage?! 😆

[@OliviaHops]

If you want to make the trip, I would be honored to have you there for my big day, Orion!

[@orionkelly]

@@OliviaHops Wow Olivia that would be amazing. I’m not sure how I’d make it work for my family though.

[@MsChan-gc1oe]

Please don’t apologize. I like your “spontaneity”, and I still learnt lots. I felt the same as you when I was in Italy! I would also consider Italy as my second home if I was to move over to Europe. There’s just something about that country. Thanks for sharing. ❤

[@snooksmcdermott]

I felt that way about Italy, too, when I visited. My brothers were both stationed in Naples at different times, and I went twice. Even crazy busy Naples felt more relaxing than the US! Mexico City is the same for me. Chaotic but relaxing? And the people are so kind.

[@hawkeye9382]

That is so awesome that he doesn't annoy you. I used to have a saying on my fridge by Mark Twain " The greatest catastrophe in my life, never even happened. "

[@maiamaiapapaya]

Side note: I love your ruffly neckline. It's super cute and it looks comfy!

[@loopylori2563]

Get checked for Celiac Disease! Italy grows a different strain of wheat than that grown in the States. Many Celiacs find Italian breads don't make them ill like breads from home. There is a high rate of autism in Celiac Disease. I have Celiac and Aspergers. High dose Thiamine supplementation is beneficial in reducing anxiety and panic attacks.

[@ianwolford277]

i am also autistic and am tired of the us. this country is mostly centered around the "neurotypical" culture. I want to live in Scandinavia, Germany, France, or Spain. they have amazing work life balances and seem to be way more autism friendly than the us. they seem to have a slower pace at life which i like. I hope i can someday move to Europe.

[@tanyadirienzo9544]

Funny that you grew up in Piedmont! My parents got married in Alba (Piedmont) and from the pictures it looks absolutely gorgeous. They had their reception in one of the castles around there 🏰 You'll have a beautiful wedding 💍🎉 😊

[@threewins3]

I missed you. Loved this style of video. Thank you for sharing. 😊

[@simonanardi4312]

Hi Olivia, it’s the first time I watch one of your videos, even if it’s been a while now that KZbin is suggesting them to me. As you can imagine it’s been the “Italy“ part that sparked my interest, among other things. 🤩 I’m impressed with how well you looked after yourself in this almost-meltdown-situation. This is really the key I think, together with your close ones who also know and support you! Thank you so much for your courage, I definitely will check out the other clips! And… All the Best for your wedding!!! Tell us more soon! 💖💖💖

[@angeldawnkelley5019]

This was super informative for me ❤️ thank you ❤ one of my favorites of yours I like you just being you ❤️ By all means I love all your videos but this one and the time g not for the wedding parts haha but did get a chance to bring up stuff with my bo so I’ll let you know ;) Thank you for this video tonight I needed it - ❤ I’m so happy for you that you found the one amd the wedding stuff for you ! Thank you for your videos

[@taracat7141]

This video was extremely informative you have actually almost described my relationship with my partner as hes the only one who doesn't annoy me and you've also help me identify external situations That may lead to meltdowns and also help me identify how busy life is in Australia And why I feel on edge all the timexx

[@dinieldelaware]

It's almost been a yr since I started my KZbin channel and because of ur support/comments have been really inspiring to keep going.

[@shantitakemoto1058]

You manage everything so well and you are wonderfully strong and smart and so real..I’m not sure I’m autistic but have wondered..congratulations and thanks for your insightful posts!

[@karensmith5580]

Your video was VERY informative! I have a daughter on the spectrum, more severely affected than you, and your insights and experiences are enlightening and useful. Best wishes to you and your fellow on your new career (marriage).

[@benedettasavitri9644]

I am Italian, very glad my country 'helps' you. May I ask where is your place, which region?

[@CarrieMtn]

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding. I have heard MANY people say they can’t eat gluten in the US, but they have no trouble in Italy. Makes me wonder what is different in our wheat vs theirs. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@Esthie229]

American wheat is much higher in protein and therefore higher in gluten. I'm from The Netherlands and some Americans have told me this lol

[@RoadRunnergarage8570]

Congrats on getting married!!.. 😢 ly I've given up on love because of several heartbreaks I've had with women and I don't believe and woman could live with my Mental Health issues which are :1)CPTSD,2) Asperger's,3) Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI),4)Anxiety and 5 Depression... 😢 but it is what it is ...

[@gigi4848]

Congrats on your engagement! Love the ring!

[@ritab5153]

Yes, you have told us about Italy! It's my #1 place i'd LOVE to visit! Good for you. The ring is gorgeous! Congratulations!!! Buy a house there instead of the next 6 cars ;) Btw, this was VERY informative, Olivia!

[@anelpretorius66]

Your post is informative to many of us, so please don't under-estimate its power. Lots of love.

[@alexadellastella5247]

Lovely ring! very special :)

[@joshuafarrow9581]

Love your videos I have a brother with autism

[@Ninaagabi]

The caffeine in the us makes me jittery not anxious but like my hands all shaky but in Italy I’d have 2-3 espressos and it’s was like nothing! The food is such HIGH quality 😙👌🏻 And THE BIDETS😂👌🏻

[@gracegrace9567]

Best Wishes on your wedding! so very happy for you!!

[@kayjay-kreations]

I love Italy and I felt like I had gone home when I went there yet I had never been there before Amazing place

[@eleonoradf3395]

Hello from Italy!!😊🙋‍♀️

[@craigcarter400]

Sounds like anyway to make your life less rushed, whether US or abroad is good for ASD / ADHD etc

[@adrianedevries1068]

I feel that America is a toxic place. We are all stressed out and not able to be out best selves here 😔

[@andrejka_talking_out_loud]

I wonder if Italy has a better quality of life, healthier food, water, etc.?

[@katzie93]

Congratulations! And show us the cars!!!!!

[@RoadRunnergarage8570]

I don't do to well when I allow myself to get "hangry" too ...

[@sharonginger2997]

Congratulations

[@JessicaVanderhoff]

It's probably the glyphosate in our wheat. If you try organic carb products, your digestion may be a lot better here. Corn, oats, and wheat are the biggest offenders, and here they're doused with chemicals that aren't even allowed in Europe.

[@Piroschatz44]

We are from Switzerland and my mother is Italian, that was the reason why we went to Italy every summer holidays and I disliked that more and more....I was a kid and wanted to visit other countries and not always the same....but nope and I start to hate Italy. My parents retired sooner and now they live in south Italy and they are very happy. I wasn´t motivated to visit them and planned only 2 weeks there.....but it is a paradise and the last years I was there for 4-5 weeks every year🙂 The people there live pure freedom and act more like a big family. You want to make a fire? Do it. You want to build something for your house? Do it. You want tomatoes, figs, etc. from a tree? Pick them and eat directly or ask the your neighbor first if it is his tree or fruits ^^ Here in Switzerland? If you see an apple tree and 10 apples rotting on the ground, don´t try to take one, you get called a thieve and someone calls the police. If you want to build something for your house or garden, you have to ask the government for permission. A good friend´s father did this and then he built a small shack for his garden, a new neighbor complained about it and now he have to deconstruct this shack.....after 30 years this thing was in his garden.......

[@clarasamuelthomas]

No way! I'm Italian and I live in Piemonte. I think I have some autistic traits and I love the US with my entire heart! I also felt calmer the 2 times I went there. Also my husband doesn't count as a number yet sometimes he does and I want to stay totally alone. Where did you grow up ?(partially) I live in a little town called Ivrea, do you know this city?

[@sarahbeaulieu999]

Weddings are ridiculous in America. The cost is just ridiculous. I fully agree that people should do what they want but I would rather put a down payment on a new car or house than spend money on a wedding. Me and hubby only took 2 weeks to plan our wedding and got married in my mom's living room 12 days before our 2nd child was born.n

[@jaz398]

I wish I could move country

[@lesliedean8029]

I'm 80, maybe Aspie, maybe not; but definately seeking sense (??) If NT & ND sense, seem & feel different(ly?) how does an ND know what an NT is any better than the converse? So what is believsble.in cross video explanations of "the other?" Not a dig; a serious concern question.

[@sharonginger2997]

That cool

[@tatymac21]

Europe is amazing. I never understand why people want to leave Europe to visit the U.s. lol! It’s insanity.

[@CreativeOne-ll8et]

Why can’t I watch your Good jobs for people with Autism , I just paid for KZbin membership.

[@teflonpan115]

Good. Now you can be free from this horrible disease.

[@beimkohlehydrat2455]

wait... german and lebanese...? how interesting!

[@haroldgifford852]

🇮🇹

[@stefanmargraf7878]

Congratulation to your decision to marry in Italy. Alas, the concept of marriage is to me awkward, old fashion and scary, because marriage is a prerequiste for divorce.

[@OliviaHops]

Thank you! But I'm sorry you have such a bad outlook on marriage. Marriage is a beautiful gift from God. 💙

[@FroggyFrog9000]

Olivia please dont marry this guy, theres surely better suitable guys you know?

[@elisa48092]

wtf o-o for you it's cheaper to organize an intere wedding, take a plane for you and your guest to Italy than stay in LA ?