What it's really like to have autism | Ethan Lisi

[@jonmars9559]

"My inner feelings are unlimited, but my mind only lets me express extremes or nothing." That one line reveals a great deal for those of us with autism.

[@arthurfleck629]

Yeah, that’s another huge misconception, that we don’t feel empathy and experience emotions, but unless an Autistic Person is also a Psychopath, this is lightyears away from being true. We struggle to express our emotions and empathy because of our social skills and abilities developing more slowly.

[@ianbruce8822]

Yes, just yes, mate

[@Medichips-ws5oj]

That sentence is amazingly true

[@g41sparkz7]

@@arthurfleck629 That's true as well and i can confirm because im also Autistic. ill use this for an example. I never was able to talk until i was 5 because my Autism delayed my Mental Development until i was 14 and i still can't express my emotions well and my social skills are still a little bad but my physical abilities are as far as i can tell are normal as of now i only started to learn how to use my limbs a little when i was 8 but one thing is true in my case which is that i don't feel empathy which affects my social skills greatly and my abilities are still developing slow as of 2021.

[@ImSimplyAHuman]

My brother is this way too… If we are having a serious conversation he might not say anything. He might even close his eyes and pretend to be asleep. But, after we part ways he will write down all of his feelings and send them to me. And boy, he feels a lot. He just communicates it differently.

[@Faisal-tx9ii]

"I actually have lots of empathy, I am just not good at showing it".

[@masonnix9566]

He wasn't talking about you.

[@Faisal-tx9ii]

@@masonnix9566 true.

[@danielmoore4024]

@@Faisal-tx9ii I'd say the more accurate way of putting it is those of us Autistic don't display our emotions in the same way as nonautistic people, so nonautistic people misjudge how we feel because they can't tell just by looking that we're autistic. The question was flipped over, for a few years now they've been investigating how well can nonautistic people read autistic people. What the researchers are finding is it's an exact reflection in all ways. NTs misinterpret how an autistic person feels and vice versa. NTs misinterpret autistic people in language and vice versa. Everything that is labelled "deficit" would be a deficit NTs if we put a NT in a school full of Autistic people. The only one struggling to understand people (deficits in communication and interaction) will be the nonautistic person. It's called the Double Empathy Problem.

[@Faisal-tx9ii]

@@danielmoore4024 exactly. We are just quick to judge without knowing what's going on. Judgment becomes intensely inaccurate. Stay home😥

[@masonnix9566]

@@Faisal-tx9ii Who is "we"? Like I said before he wasn't talking about you.

[@abuhuraira3685]

Autism means i miss what others catch And I catch what others miss

[@religiohominilupus5259]

Expressed perfectly! 😀

[@Scoobydcs]

absolutely!!!!!

[@sophialovecraft7894]

This!

[@urgandma]

Is that supposed to be profound or something? If you ever worked on a team, the same concept applies, but without the autism.

[@bruhbroham8760]

Normie*

[@genderqueertears2675]

When he said “When I’m masking most of the time people don’t realize I’m autistic until I give them the Big Reveal” and then he does a little laugh as the crowd was silent, I laughed along with him and made me realize if it was a room full of autistic people we probably all would’ve giggled along because it’s almost like having to “come out” as autistic lol

[@lolowest12]

Ive been looking for a comment about this! I have been cracking up the whole time while the audience is silent. I just make jokes for me lol

[@emmaoelius]

I'm so glad we're talking about this. Because same. And it got me thinking about the way we autistics have a different kind of humour. Not sure if you all feel this way aswell, but in the beginning he was like "people think an autistic person is a white male, speaking in monotone, going on and on about the same topic" while standing there as a white male, speaking monotone, about to go on about autism. To me it's irony, because those first three things he named are how people will perceive him and they're so wrong for that. And he just blatantly pointed them out. Followed up by the "because I'm autistic" is also funny, because I'm pretty sure that was clear at that point after pointing some ironic things out about a certain topic he seems to be a professional on. But no one in the crowd laughed, so now I felt like I'm laughing at his disability, while I'm literally autistic myself lol

[@lopsidedoreos]

Yeah I felt that in my soul. He even gave a quick look to the virtual audience to see if anyone else shared that humor. I went 27 years undiagnosed, having to mask constantly, so this whole video made me emotional. My wife had a hard time believing it at first until I started masking less around her. My son was also diagnosed with ASD which helped solidify my proclamation.

[@lopsidedoreos]

@@emmaoelius I saw the irony right away and couldn't help but laugh.

[@justlooking4771]

Yep. And that's the one time, when it slips out who I really am, I am laser focused on their perception of me because suddenly I realize, they may have just seen ME.

[@amernice]

to stand up on a stage is extremely hard for non autistic people and here he is doing it better than most i can assure you this is not easy for him

[@pdfandaudiobooksbooks1982]

Hey do you want to buy audio books and PDF books. 1 USD for one book

[@bellac6311]

Its weird because i have autism, and i love being on stage and performing.

[@MyMomo17]

My son has autism he started being in plays at 14, he ended up being the main character. He said it helped him to express himself. But yeah it was hard.

[@darthbane5676]

Bella Crafts Same. I feel like, when I’m doing some sort of public speaking, I don’t have to worry about all the nuances of a casual conversation, and I just have to say what I came to say, and the audience is expected to listen and show respect. If anything, getting to speak in front of a crowd is kinda fun for me.

[@marrykozakura9352]

My brother Is autistic and he is just so natural when he has to perform or talk in public whereas I am a huge mess struggling with anxiety

[@rachelshazer6427]

"Some people think because of our ability to mask, that this is a cure to autism. However, all it really does it make us ashamed of showing our true selves" *Added to liked videos*

[@FlyboyHelosim]

Also, the 'mask' has to drop at some point because keeping it on is emotionally draining. In order to be a 'cure' it would have to be sustainable, indefinitely. And even then that only covers up a person's traits just enough to get by in a social setting. Social inadequacies are not necessarily even a big part of autism for some people.

[@alicia1636]

Yess also masking is so so so Turing It's like a fulltime job

[@azucenabustos1078]

That part

[@CindyDUsa-chan]

I hate bright lights, loud noises and other overwhelming sensory. I am completely onboard for creating environments that are calm and less stressful.

[@kidzvidz3262]

I'm just replying on this comment because I like the comment.

[@qpSubZeroqp]

@Silviu Florin I agree. I also feel calmer in the countryside

[@ryanturner5273]

Restricting the world just so we can fit into the specific enviorement without being offended or sressed is stupid and morally wrong

[@CindyDUsa-chan]

@@ryanturner5273 Yes, I agree. Creating new environments that allow diverse groups of people to reach their potential is much better then restricting what we already have.

[@sprinkelle1165]

Ugh same, its worse for me my sister plays loud music on a speaker every weekend and it streeses me out liie crazy.

[@winterbear9776]

I was bulliedin school, med school, residency because I didn’t fit in. They used to call me robot. Now I am a dermatologist! My autism helps me recognise pattern and help in diagnosing. I help patients by giving free treatments. People were not nice to me. I have been unhappy most of the time. But I am nice to people and I try to be positive.

[@veronicalyn7906]

You sound like a very generous and wonderful person. Congratulations on becoming a dermatologist. People are always scared of the unknown sadly.

[@MR-gj3cf]

I want to be your friend.

[@PutinsMommyNeverHuggedHim]

you sound perfectly nice to me. thank you for doing all you do and being you!

[@kiamavani]

U give me lot of hope for my 5 year old

[@marquistf1996]

I relate to ur story. Glad your successful and potentially in a better place

[@GoetheNorris]

Being on the spectrum I can't fethom how much courage it must have taken Ethan to go on stage like this. Go Ethan!

[@W0lfm0ther]

Me too 😭 he’s so strong and awesome!

[@prophecy5886]

Fathom*

[@WillBoss2004]

I have so much respect for Ethan.

[@raquel_leuqar]

Pensei a mesma coisa, ele foi muito muito muito corajoso e confiante e falou muito bem. Também sou autista, e uma coisa simples como subir em um palco para alguns pode ser um desafio imenso para alguém com autismo. Eu jamais teria feito algo assim. Ele foi impressionante

[@Stampedby__bonetti]

For someone with autism, would they experience more anxiety in a situation like Ethan here doing this presentation…? I wonder if the anxiety would only be internalized and not externalized in physical signs of nervousness.

[@ChaoProfessor]

"Loud noises are difficult for me to cope with" audience: *WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO*

[@coreym8503]

Lol

[@katierussell5367]

😂😂

[@GreyAce8394]

😂😂😂

[@jynx1891]

i was thinking the same haha we normal people lack empathy not the autistic ones ;)

[@leaeverlynjensen6800]

My exact thought too. I tried to hush the audience...

[@_beary_and_friends]

My husband was just diagnosed with high functioning autism at 29 and I'm trying to learn everything I can to support him. Thanks for educating people on autism 💞

[@danielmoore4024]

stellaryellow, I'm autistic myself and have studied autism for over 20 years. If you or your husband have any questions you're welcome to ask me, the doctors don't get taught everything about autism, like those who diagnose and therapists don't get taught the neuroscience of autism. If he hasn't done so yet, he can use characteristics of autism as advantages in specific fields, all the difficulties are compensated by how other regions of the brain have been influenced positively.

[@mayabanajah8381]

How I can contact you? My son is autism

[@Bongbongo]

Your a good person ✌️

[@danielmoore4024]

@@mayabanajah8381 If you're asking me you can ask me anything here.

[@ralphhannan5483]

Don' expect him to read your non verbal cues. We are not very good at it. Spell things out for him, that will go a long way toward keeping each other close. My best wishes for you both.

[@indigochild8991]

As an autistic individual with ADHD diagnosed late because I’m female and a master of masking this was a very empowering. I was told I wouldn’t get far in life, I was lazy , too sensitive and self centred but here I am graduated with a 2:1 in psychology, awaiting to start my post grad and with the aim to become a clinical psychologist. Yes we think differently but we can also tech the world to understand us if they are willing to listen. I often get told I don’t look autistic because I don’t fit the stereotype.

[@King-dsb]

Well your not alone

[@DeimosPlayz]

I’m looking to get diagnosed soon. It will be late (I’m 32) but this video opened up even more knowledge about myself. Many of my family think I am likely autistic but through environmental upbringing I’ve just overcame some of its challenges. Here I am just figuring out that those environmental challenges I’ve overcome is me masking, and to great effect. I am most certainly a master of masking, the average person who approaches me and talks to me would likely never know (and while undiagnosed as of yet, I doubt I’m high on the spectrum) but my family of course notices the small things that make it stand out. All of these videos is opening a painful window into how I’ve morphed my mind to work with the ‘normal’ world, and I do it well, but it’s to the detriment of my own mental well-being. It feels so horrible to display yourself differently from who you actually are.

[@citavalo]

I remember people just tossing the word around like an insult.

[@brianpatterson1745]

After series “one has autism” “One has brain cancer” What’s the difference?

[@teyarust6727]

What do you mean?🤔 Sorry that I deleted my first comment, I just felt like I made you feel upset so I deleted it so you didn't feel bad😖

[@artsmith4285]

@@teyarust6727 i obviously didn't see your original comment, but from what i have read here, i believe B. Patterson only commented to cause trouble. MGB

[@betne5523]

Or people use it for theirself I was putting some plates and glasses with diffrent colors with someone else for around 30 people and I did'nt really care I just put it down but the person behind me was putting all the same colors toghetter and saying: Oh I have to put these colors toghetter im so autistic about that.

[@azulizachan7595]

@@betne5523 Oh my stars, that sounds really annoying

[@MideanStone]

He seems like a really nice person.

[@vanessamilton8235]

I went to high school with him, and he really is!

[@filipeflower]

@@vanessamilton8235 Really? Can you tell us more?

[@a8495turtle]

most of us autistics are actually fairly pleasant

[@TheZestySoul97]

You’ll find most people with an Autism diagnoses are some of the most kind hearted, caring individuals you’ll come across.

[@Lighter_Bird]

"I can't stand loud noises" "The world should also adapt to autistic people. Thank you" Audience: wooooooo *Loud clapping*

[@es279]

That's funny af lmao

[@mamertens99]

When you get that they heared but not get it (fast enough). But habits.

[@Baraz_Red]

LOL, true, did not realize that. Good catch.

[@tintogranreserva]

actually twice...🤭

[@emancoy]

😂😂😂

[@mjm8949]

“I may not think like you or act like you, but I'm still human and not diseased.” 👏🏾 Those who are actually autistic are awesome like this guy ❤️

[@colorfulsomething5008]

Maybe it's a bit inconvenient that he said "We don't think of it as a disease" because some people will say it's just his way of coping with the diagnosis. I actually learned that science itself says it's not a disease. It's a different neurological way of functioning, that is not curable BECAUSE it's not a disease. Just adding that. He's amazing for holding this speech

[@turtleanton6539]

Yes me2

[@davidgvir]

I see a good, sensitive person, whos struggling to fit in our weird, fast paced society we call normal.

[@HereTakeAFlower]

I thought you were Jesus because of the weird filter of your icon, but then I read the comment and realized I was close.

[@pandanina]

@@HereTakeAFlower lmaoo

[@jochemgoede5759]

@@HereTakeAFlower you could have used your talent to make effective pick-up lines, and you chose to make compliments instead

[@HereTakeAFlower]

@@pandanina you have my same hair wtf

[@fernandojvalencia8151]

Autistic people are real life ANGELS!!

[@muahxxmadison]

I’ve been looking for the words for feelings & empathy issues and holy crap “my inner feelings are unlimited, but my mind only lets me express extremes or nothing” nails it

[@Trumpet222]

Wow I feel this. This explains a lot

[@thalblankson4002]

I have Autism and I love this speech. Its very hard to make friends and to learn complex materials. Yes I don't know body language very well but am learning it. I never talk to people unless they talk first and never laugh at their jokes.

[@abidanaqvi7233]

My son is three year old and diagnose with Autism ,,,, it mean he will speak nd can live normal life

[@filipeflower]

@Syd Barger What do you mean?

[@stephaniemcgrail6036]

Same

[@trinalexander8012]

I get overwhelmed with choices, i literally freeze up

[@iwasmidnightrain]

Fun fact: It’s often believed that more males are likely to have autism or Asperger’s than females. However, women are good at acting, covering up the symptoms. This can lead people to think it’s just a behavior problem, so many women are misdiagnosed or are diagnosed late.

[@NZKiwi87]

Brooke1994 this is me. I’m a 41 year old female who functions in society. But this diagnosis would connect ALL my weird dots. My husband is convinced, but he actually appreciates it about me. It makes me, me 🤷‍♀️ This videos motivated me to get diagnosed officially

[@Nekotaku_TV]

But if you are honest while diagnosed, how is it misdiagnosed?

[@savai646]

Yeah. I think that there is some degree of awareness spreading about how autism presents in females. I think that males struggle with the stigmatised overtness of their symptoms, while we tend to struggle with the strain of heavy internalisation. Be well, take care of yourselves 💙💜

[@savai646]

@@Nekotaku_TV Don't quote me on this, but I believe that male autism tends to present more overtly, while females with autism are more likely to internalise symptoms. This means that the criteria for diagnosis tends to be based on the characteristics that were most easily observable (overt, therefore more male oriented). This means that females tend to fly under the radar long enough to hone the art of maintaining masks reflecting degrees of social acceptability, they may come to believe that their natures are something shameful, to be hidden (this can lead to misdiagnosis bcs they try to hide themselves, their "true" nature). There also tends to be a higher risk of co-morbid problems in females bcs of the strain of internalising and hiding yourself (depression, anxiety, eating disorders etc... may be treated as singular issues without the root cause of distress being discovered). Be well, take care 💙💜

[@naturesfinest2408]

Dont they also show different symptoms? We know of male autism better because the signs are more obvious and males tend to have more extremes, meaning the autism is extremely noticeable. allowing us to narrow down by taking those behaviors and "turning them down" so we could see less extreme versions.

[@danielmoore4024]

The problem is not Autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD etc. The problem is society's rejection of diversity, society's fear of what they don't understand.

[@ZTRCTGuy]

That subject is much much more complicated than that.

[@danielmoore4024]

@@ZTRCTGuy No it's not, you're intruders who intrude our lives with your delusional one size fits all belief.

[@ZTRCTGuy]

@@danielmoore4024 Making an emotional argument instead of a rational one will not help any discussion. Society's reaction on any kind of diversity being good or bad, or what even defines good or bad are objectively complicated subjects. Intruders... gtfo.

[@phoenixj1985]

Most of society can't understand why a person would not be enthusiatic at talking nonsensical drivel, such as pointing out the weather or gossiping about people in their town. They can not understand why someone may want to share and converse openly of their passions and interests

[@tmorelli1982]

@@ZTRCTGuy his comment was as rational as it gets, what are you talking about? That is exactly what is happening, and it's an innate biological response

[@Goobian]

I am a female with autism. I am a very nice person, very thoughtful and sensitive. But I have had to learn empathy in some forms. I used to be a flirt, not understanding why it was so inappropriate. i suffered consquences, and feel guilty thinking about saying things like that again. People would act uncomfortable, but not say anything. I couldn't read their body language, so I didn't know. Then, they would yell at me and say how inappropriate it was. When I would say I didn't know, they would act like I was playing dumb and act even more mad. But fortunately I can read people now and that problem is resolved. I am grateful for people that understand me. I always want to grow and learn. Sometimes the hard way is the only way to learn things.

[@Goobian]

@@ContentConfessional I think I am better at communicating in some ways because I had to consciously think about it.

[@kakoolie6947]

"I always want to grow and learn. Sometimes the hard way is the only way to learn things. " That completely describes me as a autistic person, I just wish everyone believed it.

[@Goobian]

@@kakoolie6947 I assumed every autistic person went through what I went through. But I learned some people don't realize it's their problem and they need to fix it. That is the point when we are allowed to judge in my opinion.

[@Nekotaku_TV]

It's not inappropriate to flirt... Be careful with what people tell you to do.

[@Goobian]

@@Nekotaku_TV I know that now. If I have a professional relationship with someone now and want to give them a gift I ask if it's appropriate and explain sometimes I cannot tell. But trust me my social skills are a lot better.

[@dwormf]

I was diagnosed with autism when I was 8, and it helped my parents understand why I acted the way I did, I've never hide my autism because it's who I am and if someone doesn't like that, thinks im inferior to them, or thinks I'm a disease, who cares what they think, i know I'm not.

[@filipeflower]

Well said. I'm also autistic.

[@GAWOP00]

From someone with autism, this is extremely encouraging to watch. It is true that autism is different for each person, but what makes us all the same is that we all misunderstood. I was diagnose with 5 different psych disorders, and psych meds are have adverse reactions with autistic people i soon found out. Most ant-psychotics, and depressants can have EPS, create ticks, random nerve firings, and worse yet can worsen the effects of the sensory overload associated with autism. We need more people like him, more research on autism so that those living with get the support they need not the harm it takes currently to get it.

[@blakebramley9171]

The masking stuff made me tear up. I have autism and it takes everything in me to try and hide it. Most people when I tell them I have ASD, they almost don’t believe me because I’ve gotten so good at hiding it. I was bullied a lot when I was younger and I had to try to hide how I was in order to not get bullied as much.

[@steckels06]

Thank you Ethan. I have a daughter that is "low functioning" per society and is in a special home today. Yet, she has exceptionally amazing skills and memory. She is so smart in many ways, but it is such a struggle to get her acclimated in the community.

[@truabrikos]

I'm curious, how does your daughter communicate (if you don't mind sharing)?

[@user-gh5jc9tx5r]

No one asked

[@lucyferyyna]

@@user-gh5jc9tx5r Nobody had to ask :) Thats what the comment section is for

[@user-gh5jc9tx5r]

@@lucyferyyna no one asked

[@guro_gutz]

@@user-gh5jc9tx5r stfu

[@jamesnicoll8415]

Diagnosed aged 54 , I find this so helpful. It brought a tear to my eye. Thank you so so much.

[@FelipeJL2023]

I was diagnosed 2 years ago when I was 51 years old and I feel the same as you.

[@JLBisHatedbyPresidentXiEven]

What kind of doctor or testing does this diagnosis?

[@TTundragrizzly]

@@JLBisHatedbyPresidentXiEvenI think a psychiatrist or psychologist

[@Joy-sl4kq]

"Oh, and I also see nice hair" I think he has nice hair too ^3^

[@euanelliott3613]

I had hair like that when I was his age.... Now I'm bald as a coot! (I can't see you all....but I KNOW you're laughing....).

[@orpheus9098]

Long, wavy hair as a man looks better than short, straight hair

[@arkancer2210]

@@euanelliott3613 no we're not, insecure much?

[@euanelliott3613]

@@arkancer2210 Thank you for your reply. I was being humourous in a self deprecating way. Such a shame you missed it.

[@arkancer2210]

@@euanelliott3613 it wasn't funny

[@bellewether4534]

What a wonderfully concise and informative talk. As a fellow autustic person, I really appreciate the bravery it took to do this talk. It's so challenging and draining to fight against these stereotypes and anyone prepared to do that in public is an absolute hero in my book!

[@ManuelGuzman]

Thank you. I have an autistic son and hearing this TED talk felt like I’m listening to my son from the future describe himself.

[@DegreesOfThree]

Manuel Guzman Have you had your son's vitamin D levels tested?

[@christathomas0625]

I feel the same way... my 4 yr old son is autistic and non verbal. I needed this! :)

[@jochemgoede5759]

@@DegreesOfThree what exactly are you implying here?

[@arthurfleck629]

Bearly Listening What exactly is THAT supposed to mean sport? Please, elaborate

[@filipeflower]

@@jochemgoede5759 Watch out for Bearly Listening. He's an anti-autism troll.

[@jayhuffman87]

my son was recently diagnosed on the spectrum. I'm trying hard to learn how to communicate better with him and make him more comfortable. this video gave me an insight on what he may be feeling

[@zombiechicken7114]

This chap expresses the challenges very well and is a joy to listen to.

[@atis9061]

I can feel his genuine sweetness and it made me cry. My brother is the sweetest most content soul and I wish everyone could be like him.

[@donlitt9300]

"I don't like loud noises" whole crowd screams and applauds twice.

[@natalier7548]

i work with a lot of autistic and other neurodivergent kids and they have just as many strengths as weaknesses like everyone else!! i love the awareness this video has brought 👍

[@CyanideSprinkles]

Thank you for sharing this. You are loved.

[@enerxiazelementa]

Is it your job? If yes, what is your job title?

[@filipeflower]

@@enerxiazelementa Why does that matter to you?

[@Synesthesia2011]

Thank you for informing everyone that we DO have empathy. Recently, someone close to me accused me of lacking empathy because of my autism, and not calling them for a few weeks

[@JN-wr9he]

Doesn’t sound like they even know what empathy means! Pure gaslighting

[@PaulSmith-pf2uq]

Very brave of you Ethan! It must have been difficult for you to be in a small room with so many people, so close to you, clapping loudly. But you did it and you did it really really well! Congratulations and thank you!

[@INDICATION002]

This guy is truly amazing and an inspiration to the ones with autism and even the ones who don’t have autism. I have autism and I can tell you if you were to talk to me, you wouldn’t be able to tell. There are things I hate about being autistic and when some people find out I have autism they treat me a bit differently and I hate it. I sometimes get “praised” for doing simple tasks, or I get talked to differently or I get the special treatment. I just want to be a normal, hard working individual who makes a decent earning just like everyone else and treated no differently than to the people who aren’t on the spectrum.

[@mrwriter86]

I’m 35 and beginning the journey to understanding autism. I’m not yet diagnosed but looking back on my life, everything now makes sense.

[@an_anishinaabe_son]

"I can only communicate in extremes or nothing". Yeah, that is me!

[@donwinslow522]

My nineteen-year old daughter is high-functioning autistic. I'm thankful to this brave, young man for sharing his story.

[@mpl8680]

You may want to do a little more research into what the autistic community thinks of the labels of high-functioning and low-functioning.

[@pardonmyfrench4760]

@@mpl8680 No disrespect, but how would you identify the autistic who is independent in communication and daily living, as opposed to the autistic who has no functional communication, smashes his head into walls, bites people, and consumes his own feces? Both of those examples are autistic people

[@mpl8680]

@@pardonmyfrench4760 I am not a psycologist, nor am I diagnosed with autism. I am saying they should do research into how autistic people people prefer to label themselves. From what I have read (which is limited), it is shown as a wheel with different symptoms in different sections, but as I said I am not an expert, and it is better to do research than listen to me.

[@alicia1636]

@@pardonmyfrench4760 personally i would be considered "high functioning" (though I don't like that label) but when I was younger I would dmsh My head into walls of vite myself,then I learned to mask and only vite My nails for eg or go to the bathtoom and cry when everything became too much

[@pardonmyfrench4760]

@@alicia1636 I think there are plenty of different ways to deal with stress. When I was about 10 years old, I would get super pissed and punch walls (that behavior was quickly punished naturally haha). But when I look back, not only was that not a good way to deal with things when upset, but it put my health at risk (I'm sure I fractured my hand at some point). We all have different coping mechanisms, but if said coping mechanisms put the individual or other's health at risk, then it might be time for some kind of replacement/intervention/counseling.

[@chloema9616]

Omg this is very related to me. I have autism too, and I do mask myself as a normal person. I am very sensitive and emotional,and I used to burst out often. When I am older,I started to worried about people will think I am a weirdo. Good thing is that I have friends who don't mind me acting different. So don't worry, I am fine.

[@dancingtoledo]

Beautiful human being. Thank you for these words Ethan! -Mylene (parent of two humans living with autism)

[@HunnieBunnyetc.]

You are wonderful! I’m a 50 year old woman who just realized I’m autistic. My daughter was diagnosed almost 20 years ago and it still never occurred to me until now. Miss diagnosed depression all these years. When you said my inner feelings are unlimited, but my mind only lets me express extremes. That resonated so deeply inside me. Your ongoing talk about not being defective just human, is exactly what someone needs to hear when they are realizing this about themselves. I’m so thankful I watched your video. You are incredible being, and I appreciate you for your words and your bravery.

[@susansaunders249]

I'm an autistic woman with an adult autistic son. That makes me want to hug you and be your friend!

[@meanwhileinjapan2265]

I masked for many years as a extrovert when I'm a introvert and now I accepted who I really am in my younger days words like autistic was a common insult thrown around often now I realize I'm just different and I'm not a mistake.

[@lightningfun6486]

@Sloppy Joe they don’t use mercury in vaccines anymore

[@filipeflower]

@Sloppy Joe You already spammed that comment too many times already.

[@amybarber8497]

This made me cry. My beautiful grandson has autism. Thanks for sharing this TED.

[@Feddzzz]

Lets everyone know he can’t handle loud noises. People cheer lol.

[@TonyDramaSensei]

Lol

[@Jedindy]

Same disappointment/exhaustion I feel when I watch videos made by youtubers in the autistic community and the intro or outro is LOUD or there is music playing during their video and I cannot hear them. Auditory Processing is a huge aspect of my personal struggle, being on the spectrum.

[@007rosin]

Well yes, but he probably also understands and appreciates the intent.

[@Jedindy]

As would I, but that’s why I bring earplugs lol

[@Nekotaku_TV]

@Cornelius Esperanza It was funny and weird how they did it the same way the second time. But I'm pretty sure he also wants to be treated normally and doesn't mind it in such a short burst and understands that everything shouldn't cater to him to such an extreme.

[@paulbeaney4901]

I was misdiagnosed for a long time with bipolar. It was simply because i am incredibly good at masking and copying, no one saw the sheer stress this caused. I was considered very social but it was simply my ability to bounce off other people and steer a conversation through borderline intellectual manipulation. Im not proud of that.

[@wizardbutler7815]

I also have autism and I agree with everything you’ve said. I mask very very well and was diagnosed at the age of 13. I had to mature (“grow up”) very fast, because of my autism, and that’s why I get along with adults more than the freshman my age. I wish for you many happy days and the best of luck.

[@SonicfanFhWcCt]

I was diagnosed when I was 2 years old only because my older brother was diagnosed with Severe Autism. When they diagnosed me, They paid really close attention to me. But yeah, I can sort of relate to you. I feel like I get along better with people either a few years younger than me or a few years older than me. people my age are a little bit complicated so I have a little bit of a hard time communicating with them.

[@seandafny]

That's not why u get along with adults more than the freshman ur age

[@rainbow_T]

As an aspie myself I am very proud of this guy for making a stand, telling Norms about us and educating and raising points that need to be heard! You did amazing up there, be proud of yourself ❤️❤️

[@crit_dmg]

hi um, could you not use the term "Asperger's"? it's really harmful and you can do a research for why. sorry I can't really write normally rn i want to sleep and am not a native speaker, hope u understand/nm

[@dr_doorknob4792]

@@crit_dmg Why is it harmful? I can’t find any reason, it’s just a name of a condition that many including myself live with.

[@AspieMoto]

@@crit_dmg You would get your point across much more effectively if you told us why you feel the term Asperger's is so harmful instead of expecting us to research it based solely on your stated opinion. I find the term to be a helpful shortcut for identifying a set of traits or tendencies in a way that many (or perhaps most) people are familiar with. Sure, shortcuts usually have problems of their own, but I'm curious why you feel this one is so damaging. I'm also curious about specifically what damage you feel it causes. Sure, I *can* do my own research but because all of our lives are so busy these days, I'm not likely to unless I have a reason or motivator to.

[@justmy2centsful]

Thank You. My grandson has autism, and I am trying to learn as much as possible about it.

[@christianjoyner8979]

That's great

[@AuntyAlexG]

Thank you for trying to learn and help. So many "normies" just regard those of us on the spectrum as "inferior". We're not inferior, just different. Our brains are wired differently and things process differently for each of us on the spectrum. I think the one thing so many experts and well meaning people don't know, don't understand, or don't care is that everyone on the spectrum is as different as those not on it.

[@brandon3872]

As someone with autism, I'd like to thank you for taking the time to learn about it. If more people understand autism, we can become a more inclusive society :)

[@filipeflower]

@@brandon3872 That's right. If only other people such as "Bearly Listening" could learn that.

[@bassam_salim]

@@brandon3872 I want to learn more about autistic people and how to communicate to them, I don't know any autistic person (maybe I know someone who is perfectly masking it) but I want to be able to communicate with an autistic without offending him or making him feel bad. I share a lot if things with autistic people like hating loud noises or bright lights and I don't like looking at people in there eye when talking to them which offends some of them (I hate it when people stare at my eyes) so I think I will be fine with them but can't be sure

[@michel333100]

Hi I commend you on your courage. You are a wonderful young man. I have a granddaughter with autism. My heart goes out to you.

[@TheUniverseofaDoctor]

Ted talks are the best source of inspiration. I can relate to this video as I was born with club foot. But I've overcome my fear, and started my own little KZbin adventure. Love and support for the same would be appreciated. I'm a med student from India. May god bless you. Amen.

[@theworldthroughstethoscope8690]

I wish you achieve all the success. It's not easy what you're doing.

[@confus.d]

Goodluck!

[@Strawman333]

God bless you. I wish you all the best!

[@TheUniverseofaDoctor]

@@alejandrobarrosoalonso4287 Sure buddy! ❤️

[@TheUniverseofaDoctor]

@@confus.d Thank you so much, motivates me more

[@jaroslaval9159]

Oh my goodness....what...a sweetheart! One only has to look into his eyes and really listen to see how much feeling is inside him! Thank you SO much wonderful young man- for educating me! I am not autistic, as far as I know, but loud amplified music makes me VERY anxious too, so I can't imagine how much worse for someone autistic.

[@kevinw5690]

What a brave young man. Thank you for your story.

[@ashtonbutler2082]

This video helped me have a better understanding of my condition. I’m still embryonic in the understanding of autism and how it may affect my life daily, but personal experience and videos like this help.

[@AdamJnsn]

Thank you Ethan. I’m autistic and adult. I recently broke through my wall. Seeing left me in tears because i see myself thank you for articulating our pain and our world. Btw i got a sweet spinner dude. perfectly weighted. Take care Ethan.

[@fredamariebrown4727]

I am SO GLAD I found this video in my feed. I am learning SO MUCH and it is SO HELPFUL!

[@harmonydevaney8940]

That X-box and PS analogy was really good. Also the “oh also box hair” was cute

[@amygirl1983]

I work with kindergartners and a few of them have autism. Thank you so much, this video is very helpful to me.

[@DegreesOfThree]

Amy And no one wonders why autism rates should be increasing at such an alarming rate? A lot of his symptoms are consistent with someone who has sustained a brain injury. I'm guessing many of your students do not get adequate sunlight, sleep, or nutrition either?

[@jochemgoede5759]

@@DegreesOfThree I find your concern admirable, but I believe that you are still trying to "cure" people of autistic traits, and I find rising numbers of diagnoses very comforting, as this could help people finally understand themselves and make others do so as well. Autistic traits are a reason to look for diagnosis, and diagnosis a reason to help. IF no diagnosis can be made, maybe vitamin deficiency could be looked into. but please don't put autistic children in bright sunlight and expect them to get better.

[@DegreesOfThree]

Jochem Goede I had many of the same traits and was convinced that I too fell somewhere on the spectrum. In actuality, I was just brainwashed into thinking that sunlight was optional for humans. Exercise, protein, vitamins, quality sleep, avoiding sugar, carbohydrates, aluminum and heavy metals are also essential for establishing a baseline level of health before any diagnosis should be made. It's obvious that this young man gets no sunlight or exercise, and he probably doesn't sleep well or eat enough protein either.

[@jochemgoede5759]

@@DegreesOfThree also, saying that autism symptoms look like brain injury is just plain insulting and wrong. Where are you getting that nonsense from?

[@MagickCat1]

BearlyListening was reported for hate speech. Disgusting attitude. Should change name to "ClearlyNotListening" lol.

[@OctoberRust1973]

I will be 48 tomorrow and I’m finally putting the pieces together and realizing I’m most likely high functioning autistic. Years ago one therapist mentioned me possibly being on the spectrum, but after I mentioned that to a family member and was shamed and told I believe everything people tell me and I’m not autistic, I pretty much shelved my idea of it. The family member only knew of the stereotypical form. I tried to explain that there is a spectrum but she wouldn’t listen. I can’t deny it now though because it basically makes my life experience make sense. I’m female and able to mask very well. Probably why I don’t have an official diagnosis. There were signs all my life. Went through stages of feeling odd, outcast to downright flawed as a human.

[@jwmmitch]

It's been a year, have you been diagnosed? How are you doing? ❤

[@DrSermedMezher]

The bravery and candour he displays in this talk give me goosebumps. Simply inspirational.

[@aliciamosby]

On behalf of my daughters with Autism, Thank You! Thank you so much for sharing your perspective. It makes a difference!

[@arhatshakya6969]

The fact that he didn't cry is on a whole different level

[@brittanycombs6130]

After people clapped his voice was a little shaky. You can tell it was very hard for him to do this.

[@CyanideSprinkles]

Don't mean to be harsh but autists don't cry until a Disney movie comes on.

[@GameTime-yj6qv]

I applaud this young man, he showed great courage to be on the stage, but his talk was an important one to make. We should all be more educated about autism and dispel myths and stereotypes.

[@jimswaskoski74]

The words I would use to describe this young man: Brave, Vulnerable, Sensitive, Honest, Caring and an Exemplary ability to LOVE. I could write a paragraph on each word with ease. Fine young man with a Video that should be archived to show todays conditions for ASD people. I hope in one hundred years from today with all this intervention going on at a young age that a talk by Ethan would be changed due to the hopeful changes of this and continued research on the subject. Imagine the joy of NOT having to explain your every word, noise, facial expression and so on……. as if you were speaking a foreign language. Thank you!

[@thenobleone-3384]

I almost felt like I was deaf in school cause I had below normal social skills. I knew then that I needed to learn about Autism. It has changed the way I look at my life and other people

[@dookiejuju192]

i hate it when people with 1/10 of my intelligence notice it and talk to me like i am a toddler.

[@kaitlyngilbert9289]

One of my best friends has Autism. She is one of the sweetest, funniest, and brilliant people that I know! People haven't always been kind to her. There is name calling and someone cussed at her for being interested in his pencil. She has her struggles, but she is just perfect the way she is! It's great to hear someone say it like it is, people with autism are human beings just like us. Just because the perceive the world differently doesn't give anyone an excuse to bully, shame, and make fun of!! "I am human and I am not diseased"! Amen brother!!❤❤

[@JLBisHatedbyPresidentXiEven]

You’re really kind , thanks for giving us hope in the world

[@Aziel_The_Kitsune_Dragon]

As a person with autism, this video helped me learn a lot more about myself

[@lbednaz]

As a special education/early childhood teacher since the days of segregation, when I insisted on having an integrated classroom of children, I have personally debated the issue of how much a child needed to "conform to the norm" and how much behavior should be accepted as long as not disruptive to the learning environment. All children have different strengths, weaknesses and learning styles. Children in my classroom might be laying on the floor under a table working independently, standing up during a circle group activity, wearing earplugs/buds playing music or blocking sound, etc. This hasn't always been completely approved by some principals, but most parents are OK because they see the positive effects! THERE IS NO NORMAL! NORMAL IS BORING. EVERYONE IS DIFFERENT! Faster the world accepts this, the better the world will be!

[@jochemgoede5759]

You are one of the heroes that make the world a better place. Don't stop what you are doing and don't let people tell you otherwise!👍

[@filipeflower]

My point exactly. Thank you.

[@Erica-en2qz]

I'm so glad you are a teacher!!! I know there are some who think and teach like you, but I wish there were so many more ❤️

[@lbednaz]

@@Erica-en2qz TY

[@Religion-Is-Fiction]

I'm an autistic person who did not suspect I had it until I was past 40. It's much better when autistic kids know about it, the younger the better. In the 70s, when I went to high school, autism was unknown. I was one of the rare smarter kids who graduated from a normal public school without ever studying, and like a lot of us, I am exceptionally good at math. One time I was smoking a joint with some friends, and the autistic veil was lifted temporarily. I was able to have four different conversations at the same time with six different people. My youngest brother told me it was like I was a different person. When the high went away, the veil came crashing back down. Marijuana definitely helps with this condition.

[@FoxinTaiwan]

Delta8!

[@kkellz1644]

I have a child with autism was speech ever an issue for you growing up? My child talks but does a lot of mocking. Have you ever experience this before?

[@Morgandc1111]

I agree with you, my symptoms seem to lessen as well

[@katerinamikaelson1416]

It's not a condition though.

[@katerinamikaelson1416]

@@kkellz1644 every autistic person is different but like I know a lot of autistics are very honest and don't understand if something might be insulting and a lot of autistics have issues controlling their emotions and therefore might have anger issues. Maybe that's why?

[@eli6821]

Love his hair. I really liked this Ted Talk.

[@CadetGriffin]

I only care about his hair in that it kind of reminds me of Weird Al Yankovic.

[@sunnied2552]

Im watching this after having some burnout today. Thank you for sharing. I feel less alone because of you sharing your story.

[@kevinmorse5042]

Thanks for the video, Ethan. My son is 6 and is autistic and nonverbal. I love him more than anything in this world as he's sitting across the room laughing at something on his iPad.

[@oxxy6678]

I have an autistic twin brother, and even though this guy is acting normal VERY well, I can tell hes not really being himself, and it's sad because the quirks of being autistic are some of the most fun and great things out there, and you cany know how true that is until you have someone really close to you like the brother who is my best friend. We share so many inside jokes and he is the most caring and sensitive person I know. It shocks and infuriates me that I've had people in my own family think he lacks emotion (by the way if you want to get in a fight with me all you gotta do is pick on my brother lol). It is so obvious that he just shows it differently. Great Ted talk

[@christianfunes1713]

He’s amazing. I myself would not have been able to give such a beautiful walkthrough demo or talk about Autism. Great job, I’m so impressed! 👏🏻

[@marygrigoryan7921]

In all post soviet countries autism is considered as a disease. It REALLY is. I can see what challenges, suffers, meltdowns experiences my 9 year old girl and I am totally moved at seeing all this. I am doing my hardest to help her, but sometimes I have to rely only on medicine.

[@tiaryan1350]

Ethan, thank you for this. This was raw and real. I'm learning about autism and how to help my son cope daily.. I don't wish to change him, but to ease his life.. great presentation.

[@wisdom-for-all]

Being different and thinking different makes a person unforgettable. History does not remember the forgettable 🖖

[@conorbyrne9307]

LIVE LONG AND PROSPER

[@happyron]

very true

[@DegreesOfThree]

I highly doubt that history will remember this fragile and visibly unwell human.

[@ItsjustMe-rx6cj]

It also can work vice versa.

[@jochemgoede5759]

@@DegreesOfThree I will, and I will make others

[@KinnikumanUpLoader01]

I really appreciate this man's explanation. If we took more time to understand what Autism is really like, we could learn something new.

[@cristinagutierrez123]

Wow What a great person. I hope this video is going viral. I love the way he talks.

[@ebindelgado9660]

I remember my Older sister told me that I had autism when I was 12 and my mom than confirmed it. At first I felt less human and made me realize how different I was are me. I'm 22 now and as time goes on, while I still have stuff from my autism (my obsession with certain things, having a hard time communicating with others, and feeling ackward) I'm constantly reminded on how far I've come. I'm a college student with a decently paying part-time job at a warehouse, I can go out without anyone helping me, I spend a few days alone by myself, I feel more comfortable with who I am. I still struggle of course with certain things, but I can still manage it. I may think differently from others, but I'm human as much as anyone else. With or without autism

[@JN-wr9he]

Certainly not leas human, I hope you don’t feel like that. So many neurotypical people, especially of your age, go through essentially the same sort of feelings and growing pains as you described. Autistic or not, the human experience is largely the same and anyone can feel like a misfit (don’t mean it in a bad way) at any time in their lives.

[@MomontheSpectrum]

Thank you for being brave and sharing your story!

[@disaffectedmale]

ASD L1 here, I sing beautifully. Really well, I have perfect pitch. BUT I'm so socially inhibited that I can't even begin to think of allowing anyone else to hear me sing even though my entirely logical mind is well aware I'm pretty darn good. I struggle to mix with others enough to buy groceries so there's no chance I'd get up on a stage and show others what I can do. This guy has balls.

[@gabbym333]

The way he organized the words at the beginning was so satisfying.

[@ES-ku3oe]

My four year old has been diagnosed levels 2 and 3 on the spectrum (3 being the highest). He is the happiest, kindest and most gentle child. He stims when he is excited and I love it, it’s a physical expression of how he is feeling. He has a significant speech delay and didn’t really speak until he was three, but he remembers the names of hundreds of species of animals and loves listing things. I’ve been told when he starts school the teachers will be making sure the kids know the alphabet and how to count to ten, my child has known both since he was 1 year old and currently can count up to 340. Amazing right? But if you asked him a question that we haven’t practiced (like what he ate today or what his favourite part of the day was) he won’t be able to answer you. My child is autistic, but he is just as wonderful and valid as any other child. My hope is that he makes some kind friends that love him and know to take the lead in the friendship, boss him around in a loving way because my son wants friends, he just doesn’t know how to talk to them

[@theodenking169]

Be careful. Please just accept him for who he is or you'll traumatize him. You have an advantage here knowing that he is autistic. Don't force him to mask.

[@kiamavani]

Same with my son..

[@EdgewolfArt]

My whole 47 years of life I have lived with Asbergers Disease(a form of Autism), Turrets Syndrome, and Muscular Dystrophy. Most of life was very difficult around people, but I never gave up, and have continued helping others most my life. The ups and down each day is I am always alone with no friends or family support most days and I cannot drive or even own my own transportation, but I work hard on projects, learn everything I can, and very creative with Music and Art that I share each day, and still here writing this sharing my support to anyone with Autism. We are in this life together.

[@mukunda9dj]

Salute to this guys parents who raise him properly.

[@michaeljay9019]

I've decided tobe very open about being autistic. A few hours ago I told a man that lives in my building that I am autistic. He said he thought so by the way I move my eyes around when I talk to him. It blew me away how good it felt that he knew and didn't treat me differently for the months that I've known him!

[@michellez664]

I have been watching videos to understand my 14 year old daughter and to help her with her Autism,but now I am starting to think I am on the spectrum as well. I relate to so much of this.

[@framedkraken7403]

- do not feel confortable with loud noises *people burst into applause and screaming at the end*

[@doughboy_503]

True, but, i’m sure he was expecting that to happen. Regardless of him being on the spectrum.

[@JJ-in3bc]

One of the best TedTalks I've seen. Enlightening, endearing, excellent! Way to go Ethan!! Thank you!

[@clarevela8181]

My 6 year old son has autism. I’ve never felt more amazed at what a wonderful human being I’ve created

[@Rmk4luv61]

This young man just taught me more about autism than what I have researched. Thank you Ted for being so helpful 😊 . My grand daughter is autistic an I am learning everyday to make her feel comfortable with who she is.

[@MiracleWorkerUK]

Immediately put her on this KZbin: CHILDREN'S MINISTRY JOHNSON SEQUEIRA

[@MiracleWorkerUK]

You see this KZbin immediately: AUTISM AMAL JCILM IRELAND

[@A808K]

I have a friend this way or similar... Doesn't think like I do at all, more like stream of consciousness when he speaks. I appreciate his viewpoint on things.

[@drdzdd]

Completely changed my mind on this condition

[@xylsvos]

My Son is on the spectrum, he is the most amazing person I know. I could never live without him. My son definitely has empathy, it is hard to express