Understanding Autism - The Top 20 Facts You Need to Know

[@divin3_l0vee]

I JUST LAUGHED SOOOOO HARD 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 “we’re autistic, not trees” 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 THIS!!!!!! Ppl tell me I can’t be autistic bc of the things I can do - I tell them, when you have no one in your life and have had to survive on your own since 17 (technically even as a child), then you just do it - bc you have to. But that doesn’t mean it feels good or isn’t hard to do. I love your videos, thank you for all you do!!

[@susansaunders249]

Bisexual adult female here...as it happens, I DO love trains and planes and I'm a hypersensitive science geek. I am very creative but, paradoxically, lacking the ability to imagine narratives. I didn't role-play as a child. I've been phone phobic all my life. I was made for a texting world! I was an adult before I realized that you're supposed to just FEEL emotions rather than weave some type of complex thought process. I've parlayed my tendency to take things literally into my sense of humor ("I saw a sign at the shelter that said 'FREE PUPPIES'. So I did"). Socialize? No thank you. And I do have a whole lot of trouble holding down jobs but there are def things that I'm good at. I found another person with ASD and we fell in love. We're married now and revel in our quirks, happy to wear the same shirts every day. But that's just me.

[@NuriaLuna]

“We’re autistic people. We’re not trees” should be a slogan printed on a T-shirt ☺️

[@fluffypenguinbabe]

I dunno, if I have to make a phone call, I make like a tree and leave 😂 I'll see myself out.... 😅

[@mizotter]

I relate to 96% of the points here! But let's talk about the Phone Call Challenge: Yes, I can mask up and take care of business -- but only in small doses on good days! It takes a lot of energy -- not only to wait on hold, speak with strangers, get through the info intake process, and make the appointments/secure the services--but to manage all the jittery anxiety and the overwhelming urge to flee to the woods! My coping strategy is to "save up" unpleasant tasks like this until a day when I feel really strong, get them done as quickly as possible, then reward myself with a pleasurable experience like a bike ride, a hike in the woods, or a sunset paddle in the kayak.

[@heedmydemands]

You sound very wise. Certain conversations don't make me feel so nervous like if the dentist calls and just reminds me of my appointment all I have to do is say yeah I'll b there. Other things are more tricky like calling to have work done on my car, there's so much info I'm supposed to know and cars aren't something I understand well or am very interested in and then sometimes I don't get all the info I should've got from them. Even ordering pizza I dislike, I worry I'm going to mess it up. I recently had to do a phone interview with a student admission person for university but that was alright. Beforehand I thought well this isn't for them to decide if I'm good enough, they're trying to convince me to join the program so the pressure is more on them. I did write down some notes beforehand tho so that I would remember to ask my questions

[@nancyz3755]

@@heedmydemands , thats fantastic! i save up things i dread, such as phone calls and i try to get them over with before something gets me 'offtrack'

[@heedmydemands]

@@nancyz3755 would do more than one close together?

[@nancyz3755]

@@heedmydemands ~ yes, i would if i could and at times i do.

[@theEarlofChip]

I definitely agree with doing self-care and engaging in renewing activities after having to make too many calls. I've always hated phone calls as well, but now that my career requires them of me on a daily basis I've adopted strategies to be able to make and receive them without it being overly draining. It definitely still contributes to burnout if I'm not careful, but certainly not as much as when I first started. Strategies: 1. For outgoing calls, I do a quick rehearsal in my head of what I need to say and need to get accomplished with the call. My coworkers sometimes remark about how I'll get up and stare out a window for a minute, but that's what I need to do to make sure I get everything done that I want the phone call to accomplish. 2. But don't overthink it. You can't predict what the person on the other line is going to say, so I try my best not to focus too much on that or worry about what could happen, instead focusing on what I need to accomplish. 3. And don't fight it. Fighting the need to make the call makes it so much more draining - thinking "I shouldn't have to do this, who even does phone calls, they should just email like everyone else" etc creates a story of adversity, focuses on what you can't do, creates so much extra tension and anguish that just ends up making it all so much harder. Just accept that the call needs to be made and make it. 4. Accept that it might not go perfectly. Maybe my client will say something I completely wasn't expecting, or I'll get overwhelmed by the conversation and forget to say something I needed to say, or I'll misunderstand someone's meaning because the autistic struggle with that is amplified by not seeing their face and body language. I can call back if I need to, or send a follow-up email if I need to. For me, all of that is a lot less painful than wrestling with the need to make or accept the call in the first place, putting it off, getting behind, letting my clients down and so on.

[@tessaoliver]

I've had people complain that I make "too much" eye contact, but I don't know what else I'm supposed to do. As I grew up, I had it reiterated over and over that making eye contact was very important for proper communication to assure the other party that you are paying proper attention, being truthful, etc. Now I either make very intense eye contact or none at all.

[@kathstone8321]

Me too!! Trying to maintain the 'important' eye contact can make me appear a little psycho!! 🤣

[@heedmydemands]

I've read so much about people talking about the eye contact issue with autistic people, and I think I do have a problem with it. I often look away into the distance or something or just kind of look at other things. I'll often pace while talking to someone, or what's really good is going for a walk with someone I think u r not really expected to make eye contact then because u have the surroundings to pay attention to. When I do try to make eye contact with people it feels quite awkward, it feels intimate also like if I do it with a man I wonder if I seem like I'm flirting with them. I don't know y it took me so long to connect with this particular trait of autism. I've worried before too that people might think I'm being dishonest or something from not looking them in the eye

[@aidenajarvis6808]

I’ve been shouted at because people think that I’m staring at them. But I’m not. I get a fixed gaze thing, and I loose myself for seconds.

[@herewegokids7]

Also me.

[@HeatherLandex]

Yes it had to be trained in etr contact too. I'm not overly bothered by too long or no eye contact. Prob As bly why all nu closest friends seem to havetrsits of ADHD or autism. I think I've been lucky to move around a bit, my friends are loyal, honest & don"t expect normal from me. All the complete newbies or narcasist could be left at distance. Not everyone has that agency ND or not.

[@pikachufan3588]

I also find that lies are offensive but I also see sugar coating as respectful. Like tell me I'm bad at playing the guitar, but remind me that it's OK lol. This might me the rejection thing that we autistic people deal with but if someone says im bad in any way or with something I tend to generalize and personalize it deeply. So tell me like it is but be kind too

[@pw510577w]

I'd prefer a phone call over these bloody Zoom meetings. Now everyone can see you as well, it's like being centre stage, which I really, really, really don't like. Zoom meetings trigger anxiety which can spiral into a full blown panic attack.

[@robokill387]

3:29 yes, THIS. In the UK, we have certain employers who advertise "autism friendly" jobs. But it's literally all IT and maths. If you're not good at them, you're stuffed. They just assume that IT and maths is the only thing an autistic person could possibly be good at.

[@mariuszwisla3230]

they're not always as friendly as they advertise, or add is for show only because they aren't hiring anybody

[@AutomaticDuck300]

IT is autism friendly anyway tbh. You’re almost expected to be a bit different to the general population.

[@misterbulger]

My autistic dad is obsessed with trains and boats and military equipment LOL. His autistic son is a heavy equipment operator and shade tree mechanic/ racecar driver

[@silicon212]

Why do I like trains? Well, it is because I love the thrum of that EMD two stroke diesel 16-710G3C-T2 engine running flat out. And at idle, and at any throttle position. The perception of 200 tons making contact with the rails with less than 14 quarters in area ... the sound of the gear driven, clutched turbocharger.

[@Merdle]

Have you ridden a steam engine?

[@silicon212]

@@Merdle I have not been on one, no. But I have stood next to UP 844, so closely I could feel the heat coming off the firebox. There was something special about that; it wasn't merely a machine. It was a living entity. Just something about it and I'm glad I got that experience.

[@jeannettegarofalo6876]

I think you are funny, I enjoy your humor.Thank you for helping me to better understand my great grandson.His name is Sawyer and he is a wonderful little boy. I have learned more about autism from your videos then I have from anyone else your great🙂

[@rudygloria2721]

Thank you!!!!!!! My “IT“ has a NAME!!!!! Autistic Spectrum!!! I’M SPECIAL, I’M GIFTED!!! The “it“ explains EVERYTHING!!! I seen your KZbin channel I’m a subscriber, I’ve seen others, I’ve been reading articles on Google and I am like OMG (oh my goodness) I have this? I HAVE THIS!!! It all makes sense now, and like you said, I’m so relieved, but not surprised and I don’t need a professional diagnosis when you hear the truth, truth has a ring to it, and you just know it!!!!!!! Oh, DUDE!!!!!!! I could cry and give you a hug!!! (metaphorically speaking) Man, it’s been a roller coaster ride, but at least I can learn from here at 58 years old!!! You’re the first person that I saw on the subject! I resonated with everything, so I think it’s only fitting that you are the first person I just told !!! 😊 !!! Everybody says, “you don’t say things like that to strangers! But that’s just the way we are it’s normal to us!!! My “quirkiness“ makes sense now!!! Lord, BLESS this “Kind Samaritan“ and his whole household, for the kindness and genuine concern and education for humanity, including myself. Amen 🙏🏼 Peace, Rudy 🕊️☮️🕊️

[@dominichadley2712]

My Current Special Interests in order of top favourites 😊: Star Trek 🛸 Doctor Who 🔹 Stargate 💍 Dune 🟠 Other Science Fictions 🛸 Classic American Cars 🚙 Space X (Starship) 🚀 Planes ✈️ Computers 🖥️ 💻 Yes I did take the extra time to do the emoji’s just to show how much I love them 😁 I think over-sharing is another Autism trait, I do this more than I realise lol, I used to feel ashamed when I was younger but nowadays I never shy away to share my obsessions! Very good video Orion Kelly! I’m a new subscriber and loving your content! 😊 I love knowing that I can feel proud of who I am and be myself without feeling shame

[@LaGuera2858]

Omg you got me! Good one. In my mind I was like "WTF, did my earbud stop working. God dam this stupid technology! I better check the volume. SOB it was a joke!" And then I laughed outloud. You have great humor.

[@Merdle]

Just cute.

[@colleenciecura6344]

Orion Thank you 1000x over!!!! I discovered your KZbin channel about 7 months ago. And have watched a lot of your videos in the last 2 weeks. I was finally diagnosed in March of 2021 at age 49. I am on the verge of crying happyvtears watching this video. What you said about scheduling changing and being creative and people saying those things. Phone calls OMG I panic. Thank you so much❤

[@camillenelson8909]

Re: #20 Eye contact. I can look at people in the eye Unless, it's a difficult or intense conversation, then I clean, straighten, write, pace or whatever, to help me concentrate. Thank you Mr. Kelly!

[@ephiri3010]

I was diagnosed in January, just before my 40th birthday. I was given some resources, including KZbin videos. I eventually found your videos. Thank you, they're resourceful and true. But... I can't watch sometimes because of the light behind you... the colour changing. I end up just listening to you, while not watching. Sorry if I offend you with this comment. Thanks for making this content.

[@orionkelly]

That’s great feedback! No offense taken.

[@mariuszwisla3230]

I like to absorb info by reading for example. you like listening. no need to stare :P

[@philip6419]

I absolutely KNEW I had to call my mother.. to see how she was. She'd answer, 'Hello'.. I'd say, 'Hey Mom, how you doing? Her, 'OK'. THEN.. I'd feel comfort and say, "OK.. Gotta go now." and hang up. ~I wish I'd have talked more while she was alive.

[@DeepConnectionswithAndee]

It’s ok. Trust me…She understood.

[@hannahbrown2728]

I wanted to touch on point 16 specifically because its such a challenge for me to get through working most jobs without a diagnosis. With no magic slip of paper to get even a simple accomodation like I dont know uhhh, a set schedule that doesnt hop around every week leaving you completely disoriented and exhausted. Burnout becomes inevitable. I know for a fact when I can count on the days and time I come in never changing I become vastly more productive. I can settle into a rhythm and work just gets easier. And its even more annoying because while suffering through not having that luxury Ive been a manager in food service! Ive *MADE* schedules! Its not hard to give people consistent days and it makes the schedule easier to make!!!! Oh but if you can print out the next weeks schedule in 30 minutes you dont have to spend 2 hours writing out a whole new batch of labor spaghetti. 🤔🤔 I couldnt agree more with the idea that if companies were more tangibly interested in working *with* autistic folks instead of us just working *for* them they'd get nothing but good from it. Many companies like to talk about turnover but its like, theyre typically not giving any employee neurodivergent or not anything worth being loyal for. Ive only stumbled on your videos this morning and theyve all been fantastic thank you so much. All this from someone who "cant be autistic because I dont have the magic doctor paper/ do the speech two gud/ dont *look?act?* autistic"

[@nancyz3755]

thanks for this, im slowly trying to catch all the videos. i relate to most of these points. its so freeing to know that im not alone. i always thought it was me! you are hilarious!

[@RayyanZiqriWorld]

My 10 year old son has also been diagnosed with mild austism. Can see on this channel a video about his advantages. For me there is no problem to take care of her and I am very proud to be his mother. Your channel very useful to teach others parents how to handle austism child. Thank you for sharing. ❤

[@Zombie_Spaceman]

You got me good, lol. Paused the whole video and checked to make sure my headphones were still working.

[@SolveigPolvei]

Thank you for sharing! As a fellow autistic person, I totally love this (and I agree totally)!

[@mandyknuckey3685]

I'm 😢 right now. This is my first post EVER! I never watch KZbin but was desperate to help my 24 year old son ❤️ i don't know what to do or how to help him, i want him to know he's not alone. He's a beautiful soul and has the potential to live a better life,an independent life. You are HOPE ❤️

[@Merdle]

God speed to the both of you.

[@ClearTheRubble7]

Your mention of phone conversations reminded me that I'm working one of the most anti-autism jobs I could have asked for, constantly having to settle disputes between people, resolve complaints, negotiate with contractors, make constant phone calls, juggle various tasks, and deal with one "emergency" after another. I'm constantly on the edge of meltdowns, and sometimes that dam breaks. I've repeatedly tried and failed to get a relaxing job as a ditch digger. 😂

[@ClearTheRubble7]

Truth is, I've done some irrigation ditch digging in the past (with pick and shovel), and thoroughly enjoyed it, finding it relaxing. The people I worked with thought I was crazy.

[@orionkelly]

Sounds like you’ve got a very challenging job. Finding work that’s in your element feels so good.

[@ClearTheRubble7]

@@orionkelly There are aspects of the job that I enjoy, like bookkeeping, if I can do it for several hours. Usually I'll spend a few minutes on it before getting called away to some other "urgent" task.

[@JDMimeTHEFIRST]

I was gaslit at my last job. Only now that I have a better job with better people do I realize how discriminatory they were being. I suggest reporting anyone discriminating to the proper source. I am finallly reporting my last employers for discrimination. I don’t want it to happen to other autistic people. The more people report these things, the better. Neurotypicals need to recognize that it is not okay to bully people with disabilities or discriminate against anyone. There shouldn’t be different rules placed upon us because we seem different. Of course, if it’s the job itself that’s not a good fit, I would just try something else. For me, it was the people that made the job hell. It was only a handful of people. Most people were nice and I had no issues with them. Just it only takes one or two people to make a toxic work environment

[@mariuszwisla3230]

@@JDMimeTHEFIRST I wondered where one can report such a thing

[@coal.sparks]

ARGH! Totally thought my speakers had died again! Mean! :D

[@orionkelly]

😆

[@j.rolfsted]

Yep, my right hand was allmost at the topcorner of my Ipad, thinking "not again🤦🏼‍♂️", when the sound came on 🙈

[@shelbiecain9289]

Ya got me therw

[@TrinityMorningstar]

I love your videos! I’m not sure if I’m on the spectrum but I’m obsessed with learning about it!

[@nancyz3755]

im obsessed with it too. i know im on that spectrum for sure! im not good at watching videos, they bore me. it has to be something im super intersted in. like these videos.

[@thebuilder5271]

I appreciate #6 because I think my autism makes me *more* imaginative if anything

[@Pinchington]

My "trains" is electronics. I love the smell of soldering (bad for me I know), building, research, etc. I'll forget to sleep sometimes when I'm flowing with the electrons!

[@JDMimeTHEFIRST]

I used to collect ceramic hen/baskets, model elephants, Ninja Turtles, then jets (little toy ones, not real ones), then trolls. I also always loved art and comedy. I do have sensory issues (sounds have made me pass out, and I wear sunglasses even when it’s cloudy). I’m also a woman late diagnosed. I had all the usual symptoms as a kid (no eye contact, selective mutism), anger, lots of crying, but I was only called shy and emotional.

[@JDMimeTHEFIRST]

Ps-autistic people have the BEST hygiene in my opinion. We get grossed out easily and have too many sensory issues not to have good hygiene. I do get dirty, but always clean (need to be clean before eating, and brush at least 3 x per day).

[@turtleanton6539]

Collecting things is so much fun

[@dellseasandoval8187]

I love all your videos Orion & Appreciate your insight. I have 3 Daughters who I see on the weekends. I think you’re funny. Only in good ways though. Keep up the good work👍🏻. I’m glad your focus is radio 📻 & communication via means similar because we all get the joy of your insight. My girlfriend is funny because she said one Autistic person is more than enough for her to manage. My point is she felt like you have too much energy to try to listen to, but don’t worry about her. I love your energy.

[@shaggyrogers7847]

I just became diagnosed later in life with Autism, as well. What a freaking relief!!!! 😂 Everything makes so much more sense now - reviewing moments from my life with this new context can be a little overwhelming at times…the information download is intense and I immediately start stimming lol. Thank you so much for your channel…you’ve become my unofficial autism mentor.

[@Billybobcan]

You can make a living as a comedian. You area a riot. So fun and informative. Thank you for making learning fun.

[@mnelson9057]

Thank you Orion. All good but No. 11 is just wow, every day, all day.

[@morganpauls1873]

yes, this! I love building rails and watching minecarts go around in circles

[@Crocs4cats]

😆😆😆 I love your sense of humour!

[@martinhughes007]

Brilliant Orion and thank you. I identify with so much of what you said. Oh for a day at the airport watching the planes - as long as there’s nobody else there 🤣

[@bethanythatsme]

I appreciate this channel very much 💜

[@davestewart2359]

Am I the only person (I guess not really) that finds that bookcase behind Orion a little distracting. If he kept in the middle, I would feel a lot more comfortable. It's four units wide, sometimes he's to the right or left. It's not really a big problem, just a little distracting. Now I've said that I'll bet people start noticing it too. That said, great channel and loads of great information and love 👍👍👍

[@nicoleroberts1826]

Mr. Kelly I like you very much and this video has just given me so much confidence because even though I've just been diagnosed, thank heavens for that😊, however I don't fit the "typical" autistic person because I recognise emotions of others, most of the time, and same goes for me, my sensory levels are fairly different and my emotions are actually heighten especially the negative ones. Anyway, definitely will be watching your videos more often thank you for what you do much love from the UK😊😊

[@orionkelly]

Thanks so much Nicole. I’m so grateful to hear that.

[@nicoleroberts1826]

@@orionkelly Ooh I feel so honored you replied my comment and keeping to my word, seen most of your videos and it's like wow 😳 because I've been told I seem so "normal" or I'm just quirky/weird with the exception of the odd or inappropriate comment, I tend to recognise and be sarcastic, I don't often get startled by noises, I wear my headphones a lot and have done for many years when I leave the house cause I don't want/care to hear other people plus my ADHD also comes into to play which is why it's taken so long!! I'm just overwhelmed with relief that I think that feeling alone will make me shutdown again🤣

[@kyleesunshine9079]

I really like your videos. I have only just been diagnosed with ASD and ADHD I am 48 years old.

[@orionkelly]

Congratulations on your diagnosis!

[@kyleesunshine9079]

I still don't know how I feel about the diagnosis, but it explains a lot of things.

[@aftonair]

"Intensely inquisitive". I love that. Thanks ❤

[@howlroseXI]

It’s so funny you are saying the train thing cause I was OBSESSED with Thomas the Train 😂

[@WoodshedTheory]

DUDE YOU GOT ME IN THE BEGINNING

[@orionkelly]

😆

[@hannahbrown2728]

Yep, gotta give you that one you got me good lol. Edit: Since Im simply a collection of stolen personality traits and one liners, "Are you doing the humor?" is permanently entering my every-day use

[@louisefoster5417]

I was wondering does anyone with autism have problems with having serious looking eyes or expressions even when you aren’t aware. i have this problem where people that i haven’t even looked at turn to look straight at me as if i just gave them evils! sounds odd but its a real issue for me as i’m not hateful or malicious so the thought that this is the vibe that I give off is quite a big thing. Also if I try to force eye contact I also look very serious and people just look away so I try not to do it.

[@orionkelly]

💯

[@rachelann9362]

Yes. Sometimes I can trace it to a particular sensation I’m feeling or a thought that was momentarily in my head, but sometimes I’m use confused when I get asked what’s wrong.

[@RONHICKSK2]

Thanks some great points on this one. Love your show don’t ever change.

[@MsTeaLord]

I actually use eye contact actively in conversations, because the intensity of it helps me stay present and not drift away on a stray thought. But if I need to process information and use focus, I look away. Same if I am feeling fatiqued.

[@angelabolhuis9575]

Love youre video's thank you very much! It gives me a happy feeling.

[@Merdle]

I have a wide variety of friends. Some of them are activity based. I have always had one best friend that I share all my thoughts with. They are all my long-term special projects. My garden: )

[@teresag5587]

In the past, when I was still largely oblivious, I would mention to friends in my life that it's been suggested I am autistic by a few Aspie acquaintances around me long enough to put together the realization from their own life experiences. The friend at the time would usually say things like "but you enjoy hugs and touch from your friends and stuff, and you have pretty empathetic emotions". So I just believed I'd been misinformed and reaching for anything to explain my life and struggles. So I let go of that concern, and years later, in 2021 I was diagnosed ADHD, then just 10 months ago, I was diagnosed level II Autistic. SSIIGGHH

[@brucesimon6472]

I am almost 70 years old and in recollecting my childhood, I knew i was different in various ways. I could read by age 4 but could not tie my shoelaces until 7. I was nonathletic, could not play an instrument or draw a straight line. But in order to avoid cutting letters or getting paste on my fingers (which I hated) I would give the art class an oral report on Rembrandt complete with illustrations of his paintings. As a child, I disliked getting my hands dirty for any reason. It includes school paste, clay or any sticky substance. I did put a few models together but after a few projects abandoned this hobby, because the feel of rubber cement on my hands was just "icky". You mentioned texture of food. For a long time, I rejected cottage cheese because it was lumpy, jello because it was quivery and moved on the plate and the idea of veal chops with a breaded coating was enough to make me want to fast, FOREVER!. I also rejected hamburgers that were square instead of round (No Wendys), and felt ketchup was for hamburgers and mustard for hot dogs. I was pretty dogmatic about that! I would only eat gravy on the side because I liked to see what I am eating and not having it covered up by sauce. To this day, when I was in church or a movie theater, I will not sit in a crowded row,but prefer to sit in the back.I would sooner leave than sit sandwiched between people. In a family gathering, I have to sit where I could easily escape, like on an end seat or at the head of the table. Family is a social dynamic which I have never excelled. Minutiae sets me on edge. I do not care that the cat jumped from the window to the futon or the fact that a family member got a great deal on tires at Walmart.If the topics were more intellectual, I would participate with relish.. If not, I would literally go out walking., like on Thanksgiving and Christmas.! My wife thought she diagnosed me with Aspergers Syndrome about 10 years ago. But after 10 additional years have elapsed, I find myself in retrospect putting myself with those who manifest OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder). Certain sounds to this day, I still love (I.e the rustling of leaves, feet moving under covers, and any sound associated with a vacuum cleaner) I avoid group participation in anything and no longer attend corporate worship in church.But I do love people, especially strangers, who I meet in dept. stores and the post office. Basically, I never meet a stranger I don"t like, it is certain familiar people I choose to avoid. I also am an incurable book collector. I have 7593 volumes in my personal library over a 50 year period. Also following a friend's sudden death, I inherited his external hard drive of music , and after adding to it as well, have now 6155 complete albums, of every genre. My wife and I also own approximately 664 record albums as well.

[@nancyz3755]

i relate to so much of that also.

[@turtleanton6539]

Agreed

[@hameley12]

I used to ask my legal guardians for the same things my guy cousins received on their birthdays or St Nicholas Day. Always enjoyed complex puzzles, toy cars, airplanes, video games, Jurassic Park toys, and getting distracted with early 90s cartoons. Even today, as an adult who can earn her own money. I can buy toys and games and costumes for myself, my three friends, my niece, and my nephew. No one to tell me that I'm being weird. LOL! Even the few friends in my circle have similar interests as me, and they are neurotypical. I completely agree with the dry sense of humour, not enjoying phone calls and romantic relationships. Never been in a relationship for sex, but I have enjoyed the perks of being hugged, held my hands, and opened the car door for me. Brought me flowers or fruir seeds for my in-home garden. Those are sweet gestures to me. Please, everyone share below. ❤

[@cocmaster9136]

I love these kind of videos, I always find out something new.

[@bobsoldrecords1503]

I love trains. Travelling on them is one of my favourite things 😁

[@luciamarino562]

This was all spot on...

[@madmartagan100]

Thank You some of us feel emotions so much we are considered Empathic. Also, I would say the majority of us have desires to have normal relationships just like everyone else.

[@Meredith-ts9xl]

Hes so funny...im not sure if hes tryin but hes flat out makin me laugh throughout this whole video😂😂😂

[@nkleeman07]

Are you doing the humor? I'm stealing this, I laughed way to hard...😂😂😂

[@scalylayde8751]

I hate the way water feels, which makes bathing a challenge sometimes... Also, I'm exactly this way with eye contact. If someone forces me to look them in the eyes I freeze up and can't process anything

[@nancyz3755]

i turned the volume up! lol

[@turtleanton6539]

Great video 😊😊

[@TheVOLTAGEVIDEOS]

I didnt know of what any of this was 6 gears ago. I remember being in an interview to work at a bank. I was asked an open ended question. I looked to the upper left, towards the ceiling so that I could think, and not pause TOO long before responding. I started noticing these quirky traits, but I wasnt sure..maybe they are normal behaviors, or so I thought. The stimming thing is interesting between the two ADHD/ASD . I started this discovery almost a month ago, thinking I could try to help someone else. Jeez. I see my doc in 3 days for ADHD diagnosis and then go from there. I need to work on some things. I will never be perfect to a neurotypical, but I can work on some things to make my life easier. That is my goal.

[@SailorYuki]

Oh, the phone and math are my arch nemesis. On the other hand I'm very imaginative and creative. I can read and interpet facial expressions and feelings yet have trouble socialising and have no friends. I'm both opposites at once. That's part of being on the spectrum.

[@SailorYuki]

Just to add about that eye contact bit. I can keep eye contact but it feels really weird. But because I can maintain a normal conversation and keep eye contact I'm struggling to get diagnosed, even if I tick all the boxes for both ASD and ADHD. "You don't behave like an autistic" is probably the most frustrating thing I keep hearing. Same with my son, he does avoid eye contact a lot but he can also maintain eye contact. He does have a formal diagnosis of ASD and ADD. Honestly, I don't even know how eye contact supposed to work. Am I just going to stare someone in the eyes for as long as they're speaking? Do I look at a spot on their nose? Forehead? Do I maintain eye contact for a few seconds then look somewhere else while still remaining on their face? It all just feels weird, but that's what I've been told to do so I do it.

[@rocksolid6494]

You are OK👌! Literally and Figuratively !

[@mavis789]

Ha ha ha! You quack me up! Baaahaahaaha!!

[@VladaldTrumptin]

Not sure if others here are “number people” but the time stamps eerily aligned w the things I’m personally struggling w right now 🤔 Along w the video a year old popping up first. Oh algorithm my old friend

[@Erik-w8h5v]

I did turn my volume up 🤣🤣

[@oceanside13]

Holy crap, I didn't loving planes, trains, and vehicles was an autistic thing. I'm working on getting assessed (lost in the Behavioral Health system in the US) and have always loved jet planes and cargo trains, and antique cars and trucks.

[@crystalokeefe197]

I'm usually the funniest person in the room ,especially when I'm the only person in the room...

[@orionkelly]

😆

[@turtleanton6539]

Very good

[@somethingfromnothing8428]

I liked trains when i was a kid, then it was dinosaurs, then the lord of the rings, then guitars and now im back to the lord of the rings. My special obsession has changed as i grew up but i never had more than one at once

[@turtleanton6539]

Same I loved lotr too

[@ElaineWalker]

One of my famous quotes is, "If I'm talking, I'm probably being sarcastic."

[@RavenNunchucks]

Awesome

[@user-lz9wj4xs5j]

Thanks❣️

[@timmyturner7494]

Wow. I turned my volume up. You got me with a 1 year old troll. Impressive! 🤣

[@ken-dog]

Had me there! Thought the headphones were bust.

[@kelseysmith3297]

Yeah some people like trains, planes and cranes! 😂 "We're not trees." 😂

[@ThisGirlReviews]

I personally like phone calls I struggle knowing when it's my turn to talk as well as when to end the call.

[@helixstorm261]

To me most of theese facts are rather logical, I never outright heard anyone say that people with Autism lack emotion or can't be creative or all like trains, Tho if that really happence I don't know rather I should be offended or amused by it.

[@christinestromberg4057]

Phones,, Nightmare. Had to phone my bank - reams of numbers to key in, then trying to decide from a menu, then having to explain my problem, ended up in tears trying to sort out why they'd locked my account. Nightmare.

[@mariuszwisla3230]

fun fact about Phone Call Challenge: my arm gets stiff when holding a phone by my ear in less than 30sec, like so stiff I can't do that I like good hygiene as well. Byt I'm not a tyrant like my ex used to call me in that regard, I'll survive a speck of dirt of my clothes :P The reason why I avoid eye contact is because it makes me even more gullible, as you said they get what they what

[@jim_jam_dseries]

Considering I dislike reinventing terms, this comment seems ironic but I've been using the term "refined interest" as opposed to "special interest". Not always but generally speaking it seems that we do have interests that we refine over time to suit our own wants, needs and requirements, hence why I prefer saying refined interests rather than special interests. Note: I do not have a special interest in reinventing wheels!😁

[@Lamrie6]

Based on all these myths: people think autistic people are rocks. We have emotions! wow what a suprise.

[@ioiwut4874]

i did reach for the remote. but i didn't raise the volume. my tv does weird things with audio so [cc] always is on (:

[@24xxmonkeyxx42]

I never want to hurt someone in a conversation but whenever my tone is not perfect i get accused of being rude, but i cant remember the last time i was intentionally rude to someone in person

[@joriskemper5392]

"Hi Jean"

[@The_Vanished]

Man, don't the allistics need so much. We have to deal with their nonsensical sensitivity to wording and expression. Then we have to just constantly suffer from them just needing to have us continue to compete with them in the job market just so they can feel amazing by watching us struggle and never get better pay or any kind of a promotion and just continually put in more effort and passion than most of us can possibly handle and appear satisfied while they gave zero empathy towards us but then tell us we arent autistic enough and we are the one's without empathy for their plights of large bank accounts and extremely satisfying lives. I have already decided to be indifferent towards these societal demands of working more and more because the business owning politicians say we need to be good little workers and just accept the hyper demanding job requirements and reduced pay, then just know that we have to put in more than whats written on the job description in order to just simply keep our jobs. Yes, just keep on working without understanding they're getting played by the transparent exploitation of workers at large and then get paid less because we cant express ourselves at the same level of fluency so they can "feel better". "Excellent verbal and written communication." "Professional conduct in the workplace", "never make a mistake", "dont take us literally, learn to understand to read between the lines", "you don't deserve respect", "you think you're special", "you're the one that's wrong", "you must be on drugs", "you're lazy", "i can do it so why cant you?", "I wish i didn't have to work at all either" (when maybe you just need a day less and a place to live thats affordable and comfortable enough.)

[@Merdle]

My dad was a railroad engineer. Yes, he took me with him a couple times. A run for coal across the plains of Montana USA. I was very lucky girl because he liked me just the way I am. He gave me tools every Christmas. Is anyone else love and collect tools?

[@treefrog1018]

1. I just like riding in planes, trains, and cars 2. Not a White straight male 3. I am a nerd, but not in STEM. 😂 4. My special interests follow my ADHD. 😂 5. I totally have Sensory Issues 6. I got a Big, fat Imagination 7. I am very talkative once I get to know you. 34 and still learning how to leave people alone 😂 -I can make phone calls 8. I have "big emotions" like a toddler on the daily. -not a reason to infantilize me. 9. I understand emotions -but it takes me time to interpret them. 10. My face tells you a lot 11. I will not tell you the truth if I think it will hurt you. Took me a long time to understand the use of white lies in my culture. 12. I am funny as heck. 13. I get sarcasm around 80% of the time. 14. I become non-verbal at times. 15. I am social but more on the introverted side. 16. I am a great employee when I know how to do my job and have the freedom to do my job in the way it works for me. 17. I am aromantic but I long for deep long term friendships. 18. I am definitely not asexual. 19. I have good hygiene. It just took me a long time to figure out how to get hygiene done for me. I have strict levels of dirty I accept and clean I need. 20. I can make it but I can't pay attention to you if I am looking at your eyes.

[@misterbulger]

Im such a great worker that i get taken advantage of. Within 6 months i usually snap and i get fired because my employer and clients think im a robot with 72 hrs available in my day ha.

[@jim_jam_dseries]

I think when I was being created, I missed the memo and ingredients for number 17. I have no idea what or how to do anything in that part of existence. Go me 😵

[@ElaineWalker]

I have a horrible time on the phone, trying to simply schedule something or talk to a business about anything.. I try so hard and somehow they always end up seemingly mad at me. I'm not even sure. Then I'll switch to a super fake nice voice, and they'll end up acing WAY over the top nice.. thenI think.. were they messing with me? I have no idea. I try to document all these conversations because I hope someone can study them some day. lol

[@AutomaticDuck300]

People can subconsciously match their tone of voice to yours. Especially with the fake nice tone. I don’t think it’s to make fun of you specifically.

[@nattybking]

I'm not autistic (I think) and I have trouble making eye contact with people for more than about 1-2 seconds. It is just too uncomfortable.

[@kierafurneaux3172]

Yeah, for years they didn't want to diagnose my ADHD/autism was because I had high test scores. FF to University and I burnout and drop out, and now I'll be a wage slave until I die.

[@camilavanilla7594]

Love the jokes in this one 🤣

[@jim_jam_dseries]

Number 19 - hypo or hyper sensitive to interoceptive input.

[@elizabethheintzelman]

Dude not cool! Lol. I literally just connected my headphones, opened KZbin, saw and clicked on your video, and thought my new headphones weren't working. Lol.

[@carolinebedford9836]

Hi Onion. I much appreciate your videos, please can I have your opinion on the following situation: when out for a meal, I have to be seated at the same booth otherwise it's a different experience than usual, if this doesn't happen than my reaction to it, makes me feel pretty because it may come across as rude or causing a fuss. My Daughter's are understanding as they are Neuro typical. Thank you. Regards Caroline.

[@kayjay-kreations]

Orion not onion

[@kayjay-kreations]

Thankyou for this

[@DemonSmack]

ALRIGHT YOU GOT ME 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@orionkelly]

😂