Medical Story: Aspergers And Me (Chris Packham Documentary) | Real Stories

For most of his life, broadcaster and naturalist Chris Packham didn't tell anyone about the one thing that in many ways has defined his entire existence. Chris is autistic - he has Asperger's Syndrome, which means he struggles in social situations, has difficulty with human relationships and is, by his own admission, 'a little bit weird'. But what if there was a way of taking away these autistic traits? Would Chris ever choose to be 'normal'?
In this film, Chris invites us inside his autistic world to try to show what it is really like being him. He lives alone in the woods with his 'best friend' Scratchy the dog, but he also has a long-term partner, Charlotte, who discusses the problems Asperger's creates in their relationship - she describes Chris as being sometimes 'like an alien'. Chris experiences the world in a very different way, with heightened senses that at times are overwhelming, and a mind that is constant bouncing from one subject to the next.
Growing up at a time when little was known about autism, Chris wasn't diagnosed with Asperger's until he was in his forties. With scientific advances offering new possibilities to treat his condition, Chris travels to America to witness radical therapies that appear to offer the possibility of entirely eradicating problematic autistic traits, but he also meets those who are challenging the idea that autistic people need to change in order to fit into society. Confronting this deeply personal subject with brutal honesty, and reflecting on the devastating struggles of his adolescence, Chris explores the question of whether he would ever want to be cured himself or whether, ultimately, Asperger's has helped make him who he is today.
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[@barryosullivan3428]

I have Aspergers, having a house in the middle of the woods with only my dog is one of my life goals 😊

[@Divinefapper]

This is what keeps me going. Gotta work hard to get there, but goddamit will it be worth it.

[@pringleloverbp3826]

Me too man.

[@Divinefapper]

@@pringleloverbp3826 We can do it!

[@thebrummierailenthusiasts5329]

I have too and music keeps me occupied

[@giovannigiorgio4622]

Dogs dont live long enough.... i chose a parrot.

[@nicholegreen5180]

I have to say I watched this video for the first time and cried my eyes out!!!!!! For the first time to hear someone explain all the struggles I go through.....from the bottom of my heart thank you so much for making this video!!!!!!!

[@trishgreen2892]

Watch Life on the Spectrum: Women Sharing Their Unique Experiences... you will like that one too.

[@Sweden-wd5lg]

Same❤

[@willyansantosmoreira820]

Me too. I can't stop crying

[@carolyndaly9368]

Such courage.

[@ExiledGypsy]

I am autistic and I know exactly what he is talking about when it comes to the pain of suffering of it but I hate people who take pride in their suffering, expecting others to understand them and refusing solutions. It is not about fundamentally changing yourself when you are young. Autism is a developmental process that excludes your from majority and early intervention can change that. Nobody knows what they are fundamentally. people identify themselves with their own suffering as a way of coping with it. Identity is a construct, there is nothing intrinsic about it. You tend to develop secondary pathologies like OCD which is what you seem to have. Oh, yeah redesign society. Social engineering as if it has been successful in any other positive way. It is like this person hasn't seen the marches of Black Lives Matter. Racism is an evolutionary by product. You are never going to get rid of it. You will see racism against whites in Africa. To educate people to be aware of their own natural prejudices and learn to take them into account it is very different to eliminating racism. We are all racist just as we all pass wind but to pass wind in company makes other uncomfortable and this is why we learn to control our behavior otherwise if got rid of passing wind we would damage our digestive system. I remember an African American who was posted to an embassy somewhere in Africa. He suddenly felt comfortable. That is natural . To be part of majority anywhere has the same advantages. His wife on the other hand couldn't wait to leave Africa because she didn't have to mingle as much since she was a housewife. There is no free lunch in life to fight against an evolutionary instinct will have its tolls especially if you deny it. It is better to be aware and adapt rather than deny it. Here is a contradiction for you. Get rid of racism and make society accommodate autism. Wow talk about unrealistic expectations. No wonder we remain disappointed about our high aspirations. This love for suffering is the fruits of Christianity. You are not happy and you are lucky to have found some one. The stress of it could well turn into cancer. Why do you think the incidences of cancer is soaring. It is the result of the stresses of our modern life and the degradation of our environment. What if she walks away one day? What are you going to feel then? Do you have the resiliance to get back up again? Are you going to get lucky again? Do you realize how lucky you have been? Every time you go through an autistic crisis it gets harder to get back up. Usually the third time is the last time. Read Robert Sapolsky's book on effects of stress who is an evolutionary biologist and teaches in Stanford. You can find his 25 lecture on human behavior on KZbin for free. Or his book about why Zebras don't get ulcers. You are a scientist, aren't you? This is physiology Mr. scientist. Didn't you hear the similar things from the one before her? Maybe she is autistic as well. Autism is highly hereditable.. Do you really want to burden your off springs with similar suffering in school and teen years when early intervention could save them from all that pain? Isn't this like Abraham sacrificing Issac? Sacrificing the next generation for your own beliefs? Except that there won't be a lamb appearing out of thin air this time. Finally not all autistic people turn out to be another Einstein. Most of them die is poverty and loneliness. This is another problem of the capitalist society, focusing on the winners and forgetting about everyone else who never had a chance to make it. It is a miracle after all that someone as well as suffering all the pain you have experienced first hand, winning the race, isn't it? Does that mean Jesus was the son of God?

[@rebeccadelbridge2998]

I had a boyfriend who is autistic/Asperger's. He owns cows. Cows are also autistic. He understands them better than anyone I've ever seen. He would tell me "don't look them in the eye, they don't like that." He also struggled with eye contact. Yet he could rest heads on those enormous beasts, and both would be perfectly at peace...He is a "cow whisperer" we are still friends. To those who thinks autistics don't have empathy, I disagree. I believe that they feel others emotions too much, and have to fight to control it. Beautiful people. No deception. They can't hide what they feel.

[@avimae4225]

Dr. Temple Grandon's parents recognized as a little girl that she was different. The encouraged her unique-ness. She loves cows as well! Her books are great.

[@evieblessed]

@@avimae4225 , no, she does not love cows. She designed a contraption that held cows for procedures, based on her particular autistic trait (which is common) of finding comfort in being almost swaddled. She also designed a system that allows cows to go to slaughter without seeing the cows in front, basically bends and turns, so they would be less frightened. Loving cows means NOT slaughtering them. Cows are not autistic. They don't generally have communication or social deficits. I say this as someone who is undiagnosed HFA with aspie partner and grown-up aspie child who was diagnosed 15 years ago. I have worked with ASD children in an educational setting too.

[@JuditaHoffman.]

@@avimae4225 Girl, you really got it all wrong. Do you really think that she likes cows? She loves playing with her own imagination and making things up, like this cow slaughter machine. And autistic cows? Like really? I thought it was the beginning of some tasteless joke.

[@4cil3gna]

💚💚💚

[@jamesedmonds7519]

@Mooeybubs But you use the term "aspie" which is short for Asperger's which comes from Hans Asperger's who sent autistic people to their deaths.

[@avimae4225]

My adult son is an Aspie. He is a brilliant writer and welder. He has a great sense of humor as well. However, he was bullied by his dad and stepmom. I wish I could take that pain from him. I love him dearly ❤️ He is unique, brilliant and has a good heart.

[@harlotteoscara686]

My awesome husband and our beautiful daughter are Aspies (I’m not). They are hilarious, intelligent, artistic, compassionate, and are trying to be polite. I don’t think I could ❤️ them more no matter how much they irritate me with their absolute precision. 😂

[@Astri-ez9wx]

Even they will irriate you to how precise you must slice the potatoes. lol. i am a woman with asperger and I do like detail and precision. but it's fun, eventho people might think I am crazy, and rigid.

[@christinerobinson890]

I found this documentary to be enthralling and enlightening. I totally agree with his conclusions, that people should be channeled into occupations that match their strengths rather than trying to conform to some non-existent norm. Traditional schools are notorious for trying to push square pegs into round holes. No one is round. We are all square to some degree. Yes, there are some societal norms that we all must learn, but trying to make us all “normal” is absurd. Thank you for making this documentary. You are truly an interesting person.

[@ocdplaylistmaker7032]

Edutopia is a cool KZbin channel that talks about those kinds of schools that allow uniqueness

[@giovannigiorgio4622]

Apart of my Aspergers was to type you a 3 page explination of why and how, and than delet it, as i feel its irrelevant and you wont understand anyway. And even if you do understand.... as its not so complicated as to be the creation of gravity on an entity in real time, its more... what does it really matter? you cant fix what is not broken and what is broken you cant fix.

[@karendegenerous8044]

Christine. I like and agree with most of what you've written, particularly regarding trying to put children - and adults - into places that they don't belong. I'm a very open minded person, probably a bit extreme, a psychology doctor and a criminal doctor so a bit mad, which we have to be mad to be able to understand all that goes with that. To make my life easier, as much as possible, I avoid all people whose initials are A J or S, and Christophers, Christines, Peters and Ians, because I find their minds too enclosed on the hole and therefore alien to me. I only believe in what is real, and not scripted by somebody else. My point here is that opposite to what you write, I would say that most people are round, and it's an insult to say that we are all square to some degree, but that, my dear, points out the difference between you and me, at least, and I just wanted you to know that although there are many similarities between people, there are major differences in all people too, even twins are different - that's putting it very briefly, I know when there's no point to explain further, said in the nicest possible way.

[@kerryh3833]

@@karendegenerous8044 Considering your comment, you sound very square to me. Unless aggressive opinion and ego is round...

[@hannah.kate.]

I have Aspergers and hearing that guy saying if he could cure it, it would be a dream come true... that one stung.

[@amyk8238]

I don't think anyone could cure it any more than those now-discredited "reparative" therapies could change a person's sexual orientation. At most, a patient might learn to pass themselves off as neurotypical. I doubt it would change the core of who they (we) really are inside.

[@harlotteoscara686]

Hannah Gilbert, you’re beautiful the way you are. Surround yourself with better people.

[@sissyrayself7508]

What's wrong with that? It's a disorder..not able to really understand others feelings and needs is a disorder.

[@sissyrayself7508]

@@harlotteoscara686 and if you're not on the "spectrum" and you are in a relationship with someone who is and you're completely depleted emotionally.. find someone who is capable of true empathy, spontaneity and of truly sharing your joy and get FREE. Leave.

[@harlotteoscara686]

Sissy Ray Self, I’ve been married for 15 years to a man “on the Spectrum” and we have a daughter who is “on the Spectrum” and I’m not emotionally depleted at all. Quite the opposite. You couldn’t find a better husband and father. They are funny, compassionate, intelligent people who relate to the world differently than I do and I don’t have a problem with that. Aspies are as diverse as the rest of us.

[@furthermoore1863]

I think I'd rather talk to Chris anyday than almost 100% of the people I've ever met. I don't talk to hardly anyone anymore but I'm ok with it. One thing I think Chris overlooked is when he said live on your own as a solution. I have done many times but it's also led to accomodation in places next to other people and it's hard to deal with. I've had lots of trouble. If you're having a period of unemployment you could be housed near some bad people. He's lucky to have his home. I don't want anyone elses mind but I don't fit in.

[@jenniferbloomfield3656]

I found I fitted in better with guys more then girls. I guess their attitude is more similar to mine. But it can be lonely, that's why I like animals because some give much more then some humans.

[@laraoneal7284]

Further Moore. I so agree. Love ASPIES. I have ADD and see similar issues with myself.

[@sweetnsour5661]

VIC TOLMAN I live in a flat with a lot of different people. Lucky my neighbours seems nice enough, I just moved in a year ago. I don’t know if I have Asperger syndrome or high functioning autism. I don’t seem to notice if people are talking about me as I’m in my so called own world. I hope you can move ASAP as it can be so hard to live in a situation like that.

[@MrUrielBD]

I feel the same...and the older I get the less contact with people I had...better be with.my art, cats and dog, my music and with mother nature ...

[@SomeBuddy777]

TRUTH!!!

[@TheAnthoula14]

That's awesome that he and Charlotte are happy together. Even those of us without autism can have crippling emotional trauma and/or issues that make true long term relationships hard to find and sustain. I'm happy for any two people who find each other in today's world and truly enjoy each other's company and are happy together.

[@sissyrayself7508]

Trust me it's nearly impossible to have a truly reciprocal relationship with an Aspie..

[@JuditaHoffman.]

@@sissyrayself7508 Why?

[@beazrichz973]

@@sissyrayself7508 as an autistic, I am not heterosexual. Actually if you’re autistic, the more likelihood you’re LGBT than the general population. There is an obvious overlap with the autistic community and the LGBT community. Though more autistics are heterosexual than not, the percentage of non heterosexuals in the autistic population is larger than the non autistic population.

[@giovannigiorgio4622]

@@JuditaHoffman. I have aspergers and the truth is that we dont know what love is... it makes no sense to us at all. I am called Robot at work... i dont feel emotion like you do... i LOVE to be alone. Its my passion, if i can be alone on a river even better. I would think that is what the comment means. Aspies have a hard time with love as its not natural for us to think that way.

[@karendegenerous8044]

That's a bit bizarre. I watch a lot on KZbin in particular documentaries, I woke up at four this morning and just decided to watch more videos about Asperger's and autism, to see what's updated, personal views. Before I came across this, and therefore before I came across your comment, I decided to rename my previous doctor Rob, the the shortened version of the real intention name being ROBOT, due to his not knowing what love is. As a psychologist I figured that out quite awhile back, he's very special otherwise but his lack of understanding has created many big problems whereas he won't even know what HARDSHIP has caused. Not his fault obviously, (although by all accounts he has learnt how to revenge very well).

[@1crocodile2crocodile]

I am in my 60s and have only recently discovered that my "weirdness" and inability to cope with "normal" life is because I am on the spectrum, and I want to thank you, Chris, with all my heart for sharing your story. I could not have explained how I think and feel any better than you have and this has made me feel, for once, part of the world.

[@a.b.n.5447]

Welcome to the club of the sixties group being diagnossed. Nice to 'meet' somebody in the same situation :-)

[@suzgleason]

It's too weird to be with someone who is not attached. No sense of grief. For others who suffer

[@suzgleason]

The individual is really narcissistic. Weird how he wasn't able to initiate any joy at seeing her. Their relationship is not satisfying to her. But I'll bet in the beginning he showed enthusiasm. You could see the frustration on her face. She feels devastated one more time!! When the mask is off, it's all blaming and alcohol, does not want to express love.

[@andgate2000]

I found out at 54....explains a lot about my marriage and relationship with my kids.

[@alealp2009]

I loved this documentary. I felt so much identified, I’m 49 an recently realized that I have Aspergers. I attended to therapy as I lost a promotion interview. It’s a whole new word, the good thing is that I realized that and I can work now on my weaknesses. Thank you for sharing this Chris

[@Keeplifesimple9]

As an Aspie who has had a rough day, this video has been absolute magic, thank you so much.

[@H20.]

I don't have Asperger's but I found this documentary fascinating.

[@kirasussane1556]

Love how articulated and self aware is Chris.

[@lise4369]

Yes, me too.

[@elainemackenzie9651]

I'm from the UK and have a child who has autism and I have to agree with Chris with hating the 'ABA' approach to autism. I would go as far as saying it must be like torture to a child who has autism.

[@loopylou6841]

I cant stand ABA I personally think its cruel and incredibly dangerous in the wrong hands

[@Goatslide]

Totally agree with you,my son has autism & goes to a SEN school but they don’t teach ABA..I would hate that for him. When he was in that school it was upsetting to watch.

[@unknownentity7964]

ABA HURT Me alot in side on every day still hurt me

[@prioract2842]

ABA is Narcissistic abuse and emotional abuse - normalized - on especially sensitive and vulnerable kids. That’s how i see it. It’s about norms, control, and the lowest functional based -power abusive reflection of our system. ABA probably is creating countless future adults who will struggle with PTSD and comorbidities developed because of it. Depression, anxiety, bad boundaries, exposure to further abuse in life being taken advantage of, etc - including narcissistic abuse.

[@laurenpickles287]

I have Aspergers so this is helpful to know that I’m not the only one

[@mvcassone]

Me too

[@kevinleesmith]

It might be more enlightening to try to change "normal" people to be more aspergers. If you are travelling at the speed of light, are you really travelling, or is the light travelling and u are standing still. Its just a question of context.

[@kevinleesmith]

It seems to me that ABA is the same as the people who thought they could cure homosexuals. The fact that doctor said he would cure it if he could, clearly shows he does not understand it.

[@kevinleesmith]

Yeah. I could contribute too. I've written 10 books, but no one is interested a) because what's good is not as important as what's popular, and b) because the way I am makes people hate me and not want to listen to me.

[@colinfleetham8190]

Lauren Pickles it makes you who you are shine bright as you do every day 😁

[@paulthomasmcdonald4841]

I wonder how many more people,who feel they have to conform to the so called NORM,are being stifled. My admiration of Chris has taken on a newer form. How someone can negotiate all the pitfalls they have,and still attain such heights in their field. And then to lay everything bare,for the world to see. Truly an inspiration to anyone with this condition,or not. We need many more Chris Packhams,and definitely do not want to “CURE” any of them. We are the ones who need to change. 💙🙏🏽BLESS.

[@sissyrayself7508]

You do not have to "conform" but don't be surprised if people AROUND you are not feeling loved, understood or supported by YOU because of your ", difference" & don't be surprised when they go to get their Very natural and normal needs for intuitive reciprocal conversation and Spontaneous fun and mutual attentive support and empathetic behavior from someone ELSE.. Someone who doesn't have your 'difference" & who is willing and ABLE to understand THEIR needs.

[@JJLewin1]

Total respect to Chris, he is a fascinating man and proves how special people who are on the "spectrum" can make such a difference in "normal" peoples lives. You are extra special people and deserve recognition.

[@susanwood5126]

You have touched so many lives in a good way. I have an autistic nephew and he makes the world more interesting, he is highly intelligent but like you were he does not know how to act in public but there is hope. What a boring world this would be without all the differences in each of us.

[@peterbustin2683]

A real eye-opener. I suffer too with Aspergers. I try to turn it to my advantage, if possible..

[@PrimateProductions]

How do you do that?

[@peterbustin2683]

@@PrimateProductions Well, without being over confident, I used to mention it at job interviews - and say how it gave me an unusual edge ! It worked ! Im retired now, after a long career.

[@harlotteoscara686]

Peter Bustin, you can.

[@PrimateProductions]

@@peterbustin2683 well that sounds like an awesome attitude to have that could result in a fulfilled life!! Congrats for making the most out of your situation

[@peterbustin2683]

@@PrimateProductions Thank you !

[@jacquiventurini7877]

So glad people are coming out and speaking about this condition. I struggled most my life, not understanding what was wrong with me. My family didn't either. It was traumatic. Now I feel more at peace with who I am.

[@normanseagull4027]

What an eloquent and gentle human being he is.

[@dubldvideo]

As a Mom I am so thankful for this video! I completely agree, that we need to celebrate ASD talents by finding their passions, rather than trying to squeeze them into the social mold.

[@mazsroy9]

Thank you for sharing your story. This will help and bless many people.

[@mervikt8374]

My sister has Asperger's. She is the most unique person I have ever known and I would never want her to be changed even a bit. But I wish I could stop the bullying she gets bc of this. People are so cruel. They are the problem, not the Asperger's itself.

[@amac4023]

She's very lucky to have you for a sibling. Always remind her how amazing she is! Teach her everyday to ignore the bullying. Bullies are jealous because they're just normal & not special like she is!!!

[@mistypuffs]

My daughter does. Amazing people. I’m sorry to hear about your sister being bullied :(

[@mervikt8374]

@@amac4023 Thank you for your kind words. I will! I sometimes worry way too much and feel really hopeless thinking that I am not able to help her good enough.

[@ocdplaylistmaker7032]

@@mervikt8374 I am a girl with Asperger's. I remember that people would tell me to ignore. One time they teased me, and I gave them a look like, "Ok. And?" If they're not getting the reaction they want, they'll leave you alone. If you make them think what they say doesn't effect you, they'll leave you alone

[@eatymceatison97]

You can't just choose for other people that they shouldn't view their developmental disorder as an issue. Ever thought of the fact that maybe, because of autism, she doesn't have the ability to really form an opinion on her own autism?

[@orangewarm1]

Chris Packam is one if my heroes. Been watching him since I was a kid. I dont care what hes got.

[@sibelsavas6741]

👏

[@yukiefromoz2573]

How lovely that he still has a good relationship with his ex's daughter.

[@emmapark8530]

I remember Chris packham on the really wild show and didn't know he has aspergers very interesting,

[@blackline66]

Chris... I can't believe you laid your soul bare for this Documentary. I had no idea throughout my childhood that you had anything near this. Now I found out that Gary Numan has also Aspergers. Theres something that makes you both quite special and dedicated to your lives. Loved every second of this. Thank you for sparing your time and your heart to make this.

[@meanjeanie9314]

My 16 year old daughter has Aspergers .. was so difficult to get a diagnosis because it is rare in females apparently.. i feel so bad she was left behind in so many ways.. schools just brushed it off as ADD when I clearly knew it wasn't .. Drs just said it was a phase .. thank goodness for a wonderful psychologist who immediately diagnosed her at grade 7 !!! Now she can get the support she really needed !

[@amyk8238]

I think females are less likely to have it, but some women and girls don't get diagnosed because we're better at masking our Asperger traits. I was diagnosed with adult ADD several years ago, but I think I'm also on the spectrum It might not be an either-or situation, so schools shouldn't rule out autism if a child also has ADD. There may be an overlap of symptoms in some cases. My mother has always said I'm a good mimic. Maybe it's not a "talent" as she thinks, but a survival mechanism. Unfortunately, I can't mask as well as some women and it keeps me from getting all the good jobs. I survive on part-time work because my husband has a decent job. That, and the fact that I can't multi-task. Things are changing, though. I'm glad your daughter will have the chance I didn't have.

[@ocdplaylistmaker7032]

@@amyk8238 I never masked, but going to the University of Minnesota twice didn't help; arrogance, I think. It was only after going to a really good school district that I finally got diagnosed.

[@SkepticalTeacher]

It's less common in women, but also underdiagnosed, like ADHD. I was diagnosed with ADHD two years ago, I'm nearly 40, and a teacher. No one noticed, even though I'm in the 5th percentile for attention, although I have a high IQ as well. I am absolutely certain I also have Asperger's, but that I mask it well.

[@tauresattauresa7137]

4th year at secondary, that was when mine was diagnosed. Aparent for years but not to me or any of her teachers, in primary or secodary. But her psychologyst saw it as soon as she met her.

[@harlotteoscara686]

My daughter was diagnosed at age 9. I feel lucky that we knew early so we could guide her.

[@rightbynamerightbynature4198]

To all the bullies:- for once why don’t you apologise, you must feel guilty for making a persons life so miserable?

[@sissyrayself7508]

Aspie people can be bullies as well.

[@symbolitical4158]

@@sissyrayself7508 I've yet to hear it or see it. Seriously doubt it too as it makes no sense whatsoever to the societal construct that is a bully. If you are one, then you don't have Asperger's to be blunt.

[@bdlimea7018]

How he described the love for his dog is so sweet. I felt the same about mine. My sweet baby had to be put down 4 months ago. Worst day of my life. She was suffering with diabetes and I couldn't let her anymore. Broke my heart into pieces. I still can't look at her picture 😭

[@TheSuedeUzi]

Very moving documentary. The lockdown has made me realise how different I really am. Thank you Chris.

[@jimmypinch]

I am genuinely moved by this man and his story. Thank you.

[@theobservatory4384]

I just watched this and cried almost the whole way through. Chris Packham is a real hero, his vulnerability and way of thinking about his differences is really inspiring and much needed; there are far too few rolemodels for the ND community. Thank you Chris and the production team for this beautiful film.

[@janetaylor6362]

Now I know why I like Chris Packham so much, he works really hard at everything just to function. Such an awesome guy!

[@NeemohMugane]

My 2 year old precious son was diagnosed with ASD 3 months ago. This documentary has given me immense hope for my son. I feel so empowered and I feel I know better about him through Chris. I am learning to accept and accommodate my precious boy AS HE IS. ABA I'd out of the question for me as therapy. True. ASD is actually a gift. And my boy is a gift to me and our family. So help us God as we raise him for his Glory. Chris you are a blessing to this cruel world. You have immense love within you. Your story is one of immense hope. From Kenya, a mom of an Autistic Child, I THANK YOU😢❤️🙏

[@kalyasaify]

as an autistic 31y/o woman I thank you for being a loving kind human being ❤️ thank you for not thinking ABA is the right solution! it's such a perv. psychopathic praxis, just some adults systemically destroying brilliant minds by conditioning them into pseudo-allistic ppl. for the sake of what??! It's barbaric and my heart bleeds for autistic kids being tortured like that, that's why I want to and I'm going to work with those awesome souls, I want to become the change I want to see in this field. kids are our future, many ppl forget that and it's sad af :C stay safe you kind human 🫶

[@goldseraph7051]

You are a real treasure, Mr. Packham. Thank you for sharing your journey.

[@randall688]

Chris, I've completely adored you since I first discovered you, Terry and Michaela in 1986. I share a lot of personality traits with you, but mostly I just applaud what you've achieved. Many years later, I'm still in awe of you!

[@cindywebster8167]

The end of this video him and his Stepdaughter Megs just buzzing of each other personality and then the bombshell! I'm not driving all the way to liverpool just to see you pick up a piece of paper! Lol! Just Beautiful like the man Chris is!

[@liwo9706]

In that situation we could see how selfish, uncaring and self-absorbed he was.

[@libertarian4323]

@@liwo9706 Some of us just don't see college graduations as a big deal. I didn't even want to go to my own, let alone someone else's. Just mail the piece of paper!

[@wemuk5170]

@@liwo9706 That shows how much ignorance and lack of empathy there is, out there on what it is like to be autistic. They don’t show empathy in the same way as we do. If his daughter is seriously ill or injured, he’ll probably get ready to go there almost immediately. That’s just the way autistics are. Their empathy is real, consistent, honest but vastly different. Our empathy can be faked or pure sympathy at times. If they think so fundamentally different from us, then, of course, what we see as ‘empathy’ is foolish thinking to them.

[@scorpiotech123]

@@liwo9706 Chris expressed earlier in the video, that he struggles in large groups and doesn't know what to do. He speaks about the difficulty of coping with noisy environments and overstimulation. Why is it selfish to not want to spoil a graduation ceremony by acting in an unacceptable way, while sitting in a large crowd of relatives in a reverberating hall for two to three hours? Graduation ceremonies are two minutes of walking across a stage. If you think that being there for the two minutes of graduation is more important than being there to support her throughout her life and her university studies, I don't understand you.

[@lyliavix4366]

@@wemuk5170 so true! Used to get quite upset when my daughter was little and I’d organise a special day out doing something she had wanted to do for ages however when I’d tell her her reaction would be ‘oh ok’ even to the point I’d think ‘you ungrateful little madam’😂😂but in time I realised what being on the spectrum entails and that she did appreciate it and enjoy every moment… she just lacked emotional response. Now she has learnt how to show socially acceptable reactions but I know it’s just a learnt behaviour. I think I preferred her flat replies to the fake acquired reply

[@boogiemonstermom677]

The end really does warm my heart. I just feel like my son will be this way when he grows up and is ever in the position of father. Even at his young age now, he's so gentle with children younger than him and loves being around them. Like this man, I know in my heart he'll be a great father as well.

[@monikawiedmann8594]

Fantastic film, insightful and moving. I have always loved Chris Packham, what a star!

[@nikkichurch6220]

So glad you shared your story. You've done such a wonderful job of showcasing the difficulties and triumphs of those on the spectrum. Everyone truly needs to appreciate the beautiful qualities and unique perspectives that would not otherwise be in the world. Your documentary will bring others closer to understanding those with autism spectrum disorders and bring society closer to appreciating their amazing contributions to society. Thank you!!

[@thepickledpixie9052]

Great to see this uploaded here! I watched it when it was first shown. Chris is amazing, I've been watching him since he started out presenting a kids wildlife show in the 80s and followed him on BBC's. Spring/Autumn/Winter Watch. He and Megs presented a lockdown version of the show together and it was fantastic. My teenage son has Asperger's and I am currently waiting for assessment. I can relate to so much of this.

[@pollypocket1307]

Best documentary I've ever watched on Aspergers. Thank you. It was informative and communicated in a way I could understand

[@kendallmoraless]

This was so beautifully done, Chris. I wish it didn’t end! I knew very little about Aspergers prior to watching but your film was so educational. I’m looking forward to learning so much more :) Thank you

[@ronnie-lynn]

As a 34 year old woman .. never being able to understand herself. Being diagnosed with severe anxiety. Severe obsessive compulsive disorder and severe depression. I feel I’ve been diagnosed wrong 💯% I wish I knew how to get to the right doctors and the right specialists to help me understand me and myself and help me stop feeling confused and miss diagnosed ugh 🥰😕🤦🏼‍♀️

[@joshuaamberson5266]

Well, you're not alone facing this ever-present issue. I went through 20-years of my life knowing I was different, but couldn't quite put my finger on it. I later decided to bite the bullet and do something about it, I seemed to fit the traits of someone on the autistic spectrum, and lo and behold I was indeed autistic. 28/09/2020 was the date when I officially received my Adult Autism Diagnosis. I felt vindicated and validated knowing I wasn't "being weird" or disobedient, I was acting-out similarly to many other "high-functioning" autists. There's no feeling quite like knowing yourself and more importantly accepting yourself wholeheartedly for who you are. You still have the time to discover yourself, I will warn you it's not going to be an easy task.

[@cristinacrawley3344]

You might be a HSP (highly sensitive person) :)

[@kerryh3833]

The curse of being female - they choose to believe anything we have is mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

[@Aromaticduck]

Very touching. I have come here as part of my studies of the conditions of Autism and Asperger's. This has given me a great insight. Thank you.

[@susangearing-edge3439]

Bravo Chris! You are truly an inspiration.

[@EmiFromMars]

Wow, this blew my mind, fascinating and so well done aswel. What struck me most Was Chris and his love of animals - Animals don't judge you, animals don't want/expect you to be a certain way, they accept you 100% as you are and love you for it, and I know for myself as someone who's always struggled sooo much socially and feeling/being accepted, this acceptance animals bring is just one like no other. I can't imagine life without my beautiful cat, she's my best friend and my lifeline all the way. even thought of losing her one day kills me....so my heart broke when he was talking about the Kestral that died when he was a boy :( Such an incredible relationship he and his stepdaughter have, she came into his life for a reason that's for sure. I googled him and they spent lockdown together

[@yaelhickley4847]

What a talented beautiful person chris is , just watched the walk that made me , and it had me in tears , the loss of his poodles and other dogs , was heart breaking bless him for his honesty , because us dog lovers feel the same , what lovely man , ❤❤

[@catherinecuellar8027]

I think MANY of us have Aspergers. It is a difficult condition to manage. However, I truly believe that if we can all come together, be considerate and kind to the social & emotional difficulties we face, and develop a network we can help each other. There is a LOT of unused Aspergers talent! Nothing would make us aspies happier than to be a productive, self-sufficient member of society. However, it is up to us who have this profile to come together and figure out ways to integrate and influence the neurotypical world. It isn’t easy but if we want it WE have to do it! (Recently diagnosed female in her 50’s). Anyway, thanks for reading this.

[@Ripplesinthewaters]

Oh my! This man does so many of the things I do! I’m 46 and just finding this out about myself. Great documentary!

[@amandas5168]

This was a very touching story. My husband and his oldest son got autism and adhd. I always thought that my husband was "different", but I don't mind. He's great in his own way. We have a postcard on the fridge saying: You're wierd, but I love you! :)

[@thevoidisshining]

This was phenomenal. I love real stories.

[@sandrasmith5943]

The world is a much better place with you in it Chris. You are so interesting. Such an amazing person. Megan has had a great role model. Love watching you together on you tube and spring watch.

[@1800housekat]

I’m glad I’m not alone ....

[@user-mz6ts4xn6i]

Same

[@brazoserwin8936]

@@user-mz6ts4xn6i samw

[@lyanrivr.1840]

Me too🙏🏻🙏🏻💕

[@Highclass88]

Already commented half way thru, but now that i saw the last bit.. man this was the most honest thing i have seen on youtube in a while. thank you again. apprichiate it so much

[@emmacardall8152]

The relationship Chris and Meg have is amazing, you only have to watch springwatch they're awesome together

[@sibelsavas6741]

I always liked Chris Packham even more now.

[@lucyllewellyn2850]

I have a really good memory with my aspergers and it can be a double edged sword.

[@reneegordon7995]

Growing up in a home with a very abusive family from the age of 5, I only lived and could relate to animals too. I was obsessed with hiding stays and half injured birds away on my parents property as my mom hated my animals and wouldn't allow it. So I think this guys amazing Today I work in an Educare Centre for the past 40 years and I work with Autistic and special needs and normal kids. I love what I do but I also still love my animals.

[@reneegordon7995]

You should have opened up your own school in the forest for Autistic kids.❤

[@dqreps]

I have an 18 yr old son that has autism but he is much higher on the Spectrum and cannot even carry a conversation and do things like you can. You are self sufficient. He depends on us for Everything and will till the day he dies. I have a 4 year old son that is also on the autism spectrum. Both have pretty severe autism but my youngest one seems to be progressing a little faster than my oldest boy at this age. So we will see. The only thing that I would change for my kids is that if I could "cure" one thing, it would most certainly be the communication issue. It's extremely frustrating for them when they can not get out the words and feelings or wants verbally. And it is heartbreaking as a parent to not know what your child wants so you can help them. Especially with some of the things my 18 year old has been going through. You are at a much higher functionally than my boys, so God has definitely blessed you. Continue to strive to do great things. Best of luck.

[@southernbelle4398]

My son is high functioning Autism (Asperger's Syndrome), Tourrette's Syndrome, OCD, & a photographic memory. The first 4 1/2 years of his life was extremely difficult. I was the only one who could understand him, little to no speech, until we got stationed in Ohio, where he entered a special needs preschool, that allowed reg kids they called "stepping Stones," because they helped the special needs kids. If you can find a place like that I'd highly recommend it, because they also work on speech therapy & social skills. We also got him in with a psychologist, a neuropsychiatrist & into ABA therapy (which I don't completely recommend or like. You shouldn't force a child to look at you when he/she speaks because it adds to their anxiety.) To release his energy I put him in Karate but he was so strong when it came to the "autistic rage/energy" that no one would fight him. It'd take one kick to knock a kid out. So within 2 1/2-3 yrs they had him teaching the young ones. He's a brilliant young man, very sweet & living as a teenager, which is a far cry from the 2-4 yr old I referred to as the"Hulk." Between the ages of 2-8, one thing that really helped when he was in a rage was a "bear hug." When his anger was building, or he was struggling trying to get out what he was trying to say, I'd say "Do you need a hug? C'mon let's hug it out." And he'd squeeze all the breath & life out of me til I tapped out. Then he'd put me down & say "TY Mommy. I feel much better now."

[@TheFlamingTrain]

I can't speak as a parent, but my cousins are both on the autistic spectrum, my older cousin has aspergers and is highly functioning but my younger cousin is severely autistic and is non-vocal and lacks almost all communicative skills (apart from things pertaining too food!) I haven't seen them in many years too much regret, but hopefully this will change in the future. You seem like a great father and I'm sure you and your boys are lucky to have each other. God bless

[@christinerobinson890]

I wish I was able to help you parents going through this.

[@eatymceatison97]

If your children could communicate, they'd likely tell you about other things bothering them that you'd like to change in them.... They're just incapable of telling you about those things right now.

[@catherinecuellar8027]

Hello, I am the parent of a HFA son. I have recently been diagnosed myself. I have raised him and his neurotypical brother by myself but have thankfully had people willing to chip in financially. It is hard to read autistic people bc they don’t express themselves adequately. I suggest: 1) ALWAYS go with your gut instinct 2) Watch body language - hyperkinesis (ie moving around too much, flapping hands, unable to focus, screaming, etc etc) are usually signs of anxiety. Think of adrenaline and “fight or flight” response

[@kirstm.2215]

I always liked chris. But tonight I have found a whole new respect for him. My son is being tested for autism and this has given me better insight to his processes than anything else I have come across. Thank you chris packham!

[@dameunique]

Great insight and depth in this video. Thank you for sharing 💙

[@christinedecker4936]

Loved this video. Each one I watch enlightens me more about my daughter!! It's so sad that no one new about aspergers when she was grewing up in the 80s. She's had a very difficult life.

[@gillblack2755]

I have a similar illness and it's great to see someone who feels the same way about their dog as I felt about my little dog! I have also always loved nature and been obsessed with ponds

[@DJAmandaAdams]

My 19 year old son has just been diagnosed with Aspergers . Im still learning how he sees the world. this is very helpful

[@juntus89]

That's interesting considering the diagnoses doesn't exist anymore. Lol. Autism Spectrum Condition or Autism Spectrum Disorder is the name given to those on the spectrum.

[@jasonclarke7422]

@@juntus89 after my assessment I was advised to look into books on Aspergers, the person doing the assessment said that the term Aspergers was no longer used due to the ASD umbrella which is the new terminology, but if I wanted to find out about the difficulties and differences I have always had, I would need to read up on Aspergers. I think it is strange that they have changed it to ASD as to me it is like saying that cancers are all the same and need the same treatment.

[@cometvaudin2850]

@@jasonclarke7422 But that’s the thing, it’s so hard to specifically categorise autistic people that having ‘Aspergers’ as a category didn’t make sense and created more limitations.

[@jasonclarke7422]

@@cometvaudin2850 I think that the problem is when you say to people that you have autism and they laugh at you because of their experience of what an autistic person should be like, people do not believe that someone with ASD can own a business or have a higher position within a company, that is the only reason I feel that a name for a higher functioning autistic person could help stop this confusion that most people have and possibly educate people about the spectrum and how diverse it is.

[@cometvaudin2850]

@@jasonclarke7422 Personally, I think it's better to retake and own the name of 'autism' rather than divide the community.

[@hazelhatswell4268]

I am an NT woman married to an Aspie. Though life can be pretty challenging, overall I consider his Asperger’s is a gift. I have read so much, watched so many videos …. learned how to understand and how to react and support. Yes, a real gift 👍

[@jeffreyvalentine9171]

Thanks for opening your world to help other people that share the same or very similar experiences. I feel agitated just thinking about going out or vacationing, if it involves social situations. Also everything you have dealt with in life I can understand. Thank God I am starting to realize I am special. Now I know what Asperger is so now I can give myself a chance to focus on my strengths. God bless you.

[@kyburke6500]

Thank you for sharing your life and your views. I'm a teacher of teens challenged by autism in a typical school and I agree with everything you've said. I find people on the spectrum to be incredibly bright so I see my role as helping them learn the "code" of how to interact with others. I want them to have every opportunity to follow their dreams and live full and fruitful lives.

[@JenniferSlater1178]

This guy is truly an inspiration and he is right. I agree with him. See what they can do not what they can't. That should be all of humanity. What a beautiful way to see the world.

[@CaleSchibler]

This hits home to me on so many levels. I cant help buy cry watching every moment of it.

[@sharonmchugh7730]

Wonderful documentary. Amazing story.

[@curry_in_a_cup973]

As a kid who has aspergers and is doing photography I feel like I can relate to everytime he said he felt alone. I feel alone a lot of the time no one fully understands me and how I work. I also relate on the losing things. I recently broke up with my girlfriend of a year doesn’t seem long but I loved her with everything I had. I’m glad to know I’m not alone.

[@TheHunabku]

So well expressed, what a brilliant mind. I love him.

[@wendysalter]

Chris - you have always been an inspiration to me - I got to know you a bit through the BBC Nature programs, but you always enthused me with your enthusiasm. Then when I heard you had lost your job for supporting the anti-badger-cull, or rather campaigning against the badger cull, I was right there with you. You have a connection to Nature which, imho, we should all have, but the majority have totally lost. You have a gift, not a label , not a 'condition, not a fault. I 'get you' and we are a small tribe. Love to Scratchy (From Dorset).

[@laraoneal7284]

CHRIS you are a unique and very authentic special man.

[@dutton2666]

He is right for some cases because my psychiatrist said to me there's two options learn to and how to interact with people if u feel that is what u want or learn to cope with the effects of not having communication with people

[@maeraynor8134]

A+++ documentary. Well done. I wish more people would watch and it try to understand.

[@junekitchen3747]

I have an Asperger's 38 year old son. Thank u for sharing

[@timothymacdonnell9079]

This is real interesting. Thanks for sharing.

[@sanoj92]

This is just a great documentary. Great.

[@Sixty_Five_Pronghorn]

I’m here because I just got formally diagnosed as ASD a couple weeks ago. I’m now an adult, but it feels great now that I know why I am the way that I am, and it’s even better to know that I’m not “broken” like I thought I was.

[@lindsaymarais3429]

thank you thank you thank you for this documentary!!

[@KittehNow]

An amazing, helpful beautiful film. Thank you.

[@MikFindersKeepers]

For years I thought I was just being efficient. To the point of being over efficient and therefore not very efficient at all really

[@juliagardner9750]

Thank you for an excellent documentary and Chris's explanation of how he responds to social situations.I have a niece who lives with me and has Aspergers so I recognise some of the problem social issues.Yes,society needs to change its view that many people are different and see the world through different eyes,which in turn can create a better world for us all.😊

[@wilmamulrain9801]

Sending greetings from Madoc, Ontario. I loved this documentary…. I have a man living in my basement apartment who is so strange that he drives me to distraction….a friend suggested that he had aspergers so I went to you tube and found this video. He is living with me because I need help around the home. He needs me and I need him if I’m going to continue living In my home. He’s very intelligent and says he’s a seeker of knowledge….I am going to try to be more understanding of the things he does. Thanks for enlightening my mind on this subject.

[@brazoserwin8936]

It’s weird seeing this, I’ve always felt different because I wanted to be friends but i was too weird, nowadays I’ll hold my own hand and not realize it

[@andrewattenboroughtwothumb4697]

great documentary as i suffer from the same condition and it's a struggle. Have seen other documentaries like this one before.

[@GFEFC1878]

Chris is incredibly brave feeding and touching the animals like that especially after Terry Nutkins otter incident!

[@steffirohn]

I love this video SO much!! He is adorable. I love when he says if there were a cure for Aspergers he would say no thank you. His relationship with his step daughter is so lovely. He loves her! I love his love for animals, too.

[@12Jarved]

Outstanding documentary

[@hannahveasey2532]

What a wonderful human being 👆❤️

[@Highclass88]

Thank you so much chris for doing this. you made me look back and forgive myself and feel less "alone", cus i deff did in my teens. Now im good, also living more on the outskirts with my dogs -funny. ♡sending love to everyone feeling similar♡ it will get better, and we need you to stay

[@KasperViggoJensen]

I can’t put it into words how much this has meant to me.

[@Dogboy73]

Incredibly brave man. I’m the same but have never been open about it. Have never fitted in. Always been alone.

[@gerrismith5788]

Thank you such for your story. It helps a great deal with understanding my son better. I wish I had know this info when he was younger. ❤

[@KeepWalkingNeverStop]

This documentary is so insightful - thank you for sharing it. I have deep love and respect - admiration even - for people with Asperger's despite not being on the spectrum myself. I have always been surrounded by Aspi peers who have been the most kind, loving, respectful, truthful, and reliable individuals I have ever met - it feels like they have always been attracted to me and I to them. They will always hold a special place in my heart no matter what. While there are no two people who are the same, their overall behavior has always fascinated me. After a long day at work with my former Aspi colleague, we would always have a brief chat and I would tell him that he had said his 'scripts' as he called them excellently that day and that he did really well - and I meant every word. He seemed to like the compliment. Recently, I decided I wanted to dive deeper into the condition to truly understand what life is like for people with Asperger's so I can empathize more with them and be of better help to the ones I know and the ones I will surely meet in the future. Have a good day everyone!

[@bunk95]

For fictional things and you’re not fictional?