What Autistic Children Look Like When They Grow Up

If no one is running around discrediting neurotypical people for not reacting to certain circumstances the same way a child does, why are we doing this with autism?
Short mentioned in this video on how Autistics connect: • How Autistics connect ...
Follow me on Instagram / neurodiverjennt
Contact me: www.neurodiver...
Join my Discord: / discord (It's free!)
#actuallyautistic #adhd #autism #audhd #adhddiagnosis #autismdiagnosis #audhddiagnosis #adultautism #adultadhd #adultaudhd #femaleautism #femaleadhd #femaleaudhd
SOURCES
The State of the Science on Autism in Adulthood: Building an Evidence Base for Change: pmc.ncbi.nlm.n....

[@DarkEarth444]

It’s been hard mourning the “life that could have been”.

[@gothboschincarnate3931]

Well, your next life will be better.

[@OldTimer1970]

Grieving is a difficult, but quite natural part of the process. Ghost hug, you can't see it or feel it, but it's still there. 👻

[@MarkieMark229]

Yes, a very difficult aspect indeed 100% ❤

[@gothboschincarnate3931]

@@OldTimer1970 who says it can't be felt? Sometimes grief even comes in from a particular direction, says I

[@OldTimer1970]

@@gothboschincarnate3931 well, then you may have a ghost hug, too. 👻 In fact, everyone should jump on in the virtual ghost hug; it will be the biggest ghost hug the world has ever seen.

[@troywhelply6742]

So check this out: I was diagnosed about a year ago, at age 45, with a touch of the 'tism and a dash of the ADHD. I got this diagnosis just after having been laid off yet again. Being the conventionally not repulsive, college-educated, cis-het white man that I am, I managed to fall up into a great new job. The only problem is that I had to move to a new state, by myself, to start this new job. This state has significant renter protection laws, which is awesome; however, the side effect is that landlords are more careful about who they will let rent, and unfortunately, I have a recent eviction. So, I'm a new kind of thing. I'm calling it "six-figure" homeless. I've been in Portland a little over two months, and each time I've figured out how to get to the grocery store and work, without my GPS, I have to move again! Talk about a troublesome lack of routine!

[@misspat7555]

Wow, six-figure homelessness! The economy really has hit a new level of crazy! Best of wishes and luck with that! ❤

[@DavidLindes]

@@troywhelply6742 oof! Also, can relate to much of this… not an identical journey, certainly, but enough overlap to say: I feel you!

[@niebieskimotyl3308]

You're doing great. You can rent a room for a while and save to buy something small, it will be ok!

[@troywhelply6742]

@niebieskimotyl3308 that's the general plan. Thank you for the encouragement

[@shapeofsoup]

The underlying issue here is autism perception is based on observation, not understanding-much less empathy.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

Yes. It's not about what we experience, it's about what they can see

[@gothboschincarnate3931]

@@shapeofsoup on the outside looking in is a constant irritation to me!

[@ZSchrink]

3:56 Having "Generic News Station" on the mug was too good!

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@ZSchrink your attention to detail 🤣 what are you, autistic?

[@ZSchrink]

@NeurodiverJENNt 😁💜

[@JonBrase]

8:59 "Talkative android with no off switch." By this point I have an off switch, but I feel attacked. 😂

[@KittyInTheGarden]

I liked that phrase too! I'm the opposite - often very quiet if I'm in the presence of more than 1 person.

[@don-eb3fj]

​@@KittyInTheGardenYes...and most days I count myself as a person.

[@srldwg]

​@@KittyInTheGardenI'm both!😅

[@shanechang2015]

I just got my official diagnosis 3 days ago at 56! I’m AuDHD 😊

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@shanechang2015 welcome to the club!!

[@shanechang2015]

@@NeurodiverJENNt thank you ♥

[@kellyschroeder7437]

May ask was you testing encompassing both ???

[@shanechang2015]

@@kellyschroeder7437 I went thru Embrace Autism. Search for them online and take a look. I'm thrilled with them.

[@katywalker8322]

Same age as me, but I was diagnosed a couple of years ago. Still not sure I have processed it. When we were at school ASD was only recognised if really extreme, and ADHD only recognised for those who were very hyperactive.

[@Underhownd]

Thank you for spotlighting autism in adulthood!

[@stephenie44]

Kids may as a whole share things they like with people as a means of connection and a stage of social development, just like I did as a(n undiagnosed autistic) kid. But the depth of meaning behind sharing something of interest to connect with someone else is not the same for me now as it was for me as a child. As a child, I felt like I didn’t have words to express the amorphous thoughts in my head, so showing someone a thing was easier. It said, “I’m including you in my life and hope you appreciate and reciprocate that inclusion.” My options were show them a thing I like or not engage with them almost at all. As an adult, I now know a variety of ways to connect. I have words in a way I didn’t as a child. Still, the most meaningful form of connection is, “this is a thing I really like and adore, and I think you might, too”; or “here, this song says what is in my heart more than I’m able to with my own words”; or “this feeling is something I want to share with you instead of on my own.”

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@stephenie44 yes! For me, it's also one thing that's easier to talk about because I struggle with "neurotypical" speak. I can't discuss colleges, the weather, or other things as easily as I can my special interests... But mostly it is about connecting and including you in my life on things that are important to me. It says I want you to be a part of things that matter to me... I want you to be a part of my world.

[@don-eb3fj]

I don't relate as much to the "things" approach or sharing feelings, but that makes sense being that I'm schizoid as well as a very high probability of autism (no official rubber stamp for either). But the song lyrics, definitely a go-to way to communicate the contents and concepts spinning around in there - music and lyrics was my one saving grace in my younger days of isolation, and often still is. Those artists were my psychologists, priests, philosophers, and teachers; they provided a language and framework for organizing my scattered and dissociated thoughts so I could begin to make sense of my internal world. Echolalia is the sincerest form of flattery (as well as a very effective mnemonic device), and a peek into the inner sanctum is the sincerest form of expressing interest and trust. The superficiality of most NT interests and communication just doesn't relate/compute, and if I'm put into a situation that forces me to bear the pointlessness of it...please, just go ahead and drive pencils into my ears.

[@markday3145]

For a long time, my wife was disappointed that I wasn't more demonstrative with my emotions; and that I didn't buy her flowers and chocolates on Valentine's Day, instead getting her a card. I think she felt I was making the minimum possible effort. But about a year ago, after 29 years of marriage, she noticed that I spent like 20-30 minutes at the greeting card store, picking out her card. I told her that I look at almost every single card in the appropriate section (Valentine's Day, Wife Birthday, etc.), picking out the ones that seem promising, and then narrowing it down to the one card that most accurately represents what I want to say. She finally got it that picking out a card was my way of making an effort that felt authentic to me. She had always thought that I had picked out good cards, but that I was just lucky; now she knows it is purposeful. Now, those cards mean a lot more to her than they used to.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@markday3145 this was my dad 100%

[@srldwg]

​@@NeurodiverJENNtMine too.❤

[@jimwilliams3816]

Great video, Jenn. I think part of the way “adult control” factors in is internal - the prefrontal cortex is in charge of that, and it finishes developing around age 25. But I think the other way it factors in is that, with adults, control is assumed by others. So when people encounter someone doing something they consider odd or annoying, they tend to regard the behavior as intentionally chosen and probably self serving. In a world that imagines free will to be virtually absolute, one of three reactions to an autistic person are likely: either “the things you are doing are normal, stop trying to pretend you’re special,” or “what you’re doing is wrong, stop it,” or “if you can’t stop doing that, you’re broken or mentally ill.” Faced only with those options, most autistic adults will try and choose door number 4, to be as invisible as possible. Which is probably what some people who fancy themselves as being “in the majority” are trying for.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@jimwilliams3816 very well said

[@misspat7555]

I’ve said many times the options I’ve been given are that I’m either infantile or insane if I’m not obeying every whim of whoever fancies themselves in authority perfectly. Honestly, my parents were the worst about this, ironically in particular my father, who I inherited my AuDHD twice-exceptionality wholesale from. 🤦‍♀️ Yes, I do try for invisibility. People can’t reject what they don’t notice in the first place. 😔

[@Hopie_T]

I used to get confused by the "autistic people always want to take the same route" because that was never me. Until they started digging up an old playground in my neighborhood and closed the way when I needed to get somewhere and suddenly I was completely lost an in distress. Turns out I don't need to take the same route everyday, but when I have a specific route in my head and have made my plan and something interrupts that... oh boy!

[@MarkieMark229]

Hey Jen. I'm so very appreciative of your channel. If it weren't for the ND community of YT creators, like yourself and Orion, I don't know where I'd be. Diagnosed at 62, now 64. With children and grandchildren all on the spectrum. I'm in profound burnout, from a lifetime of masking and being misunderstood, I can no longer work. I've tried several professionals for counselling, but don't get a sense of connection or that they get me. My latest attempt, a social worker, told me that I was too focused on being autistic and started giving me tips on how to mask.. 🙄 Anyway, thanks again for your content and sense of humour! 😊 Cheers from Australia 🇦🇺

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@MarkieMark229 If I had to talk with a counselor they would think I was to obsessed with autism as well. Because that is literally my existence and behind how I think and almost all I think about nowadays

[@badham6866]

Love this vid! And the news station! On Topic: I am late diagnosed Adhd (30+) and autism is "suspected" by my therapist and every test I did showed severe signs of autism. It is currently not possible to get an official diagnose in my area (waiting lists are over 4 years right now) and it is so frustrating that I get questioned all the time from my peers. "I dont think that is autism. You dont even know if you have autism! Stop using it as an excuse for beeing anti social! You were doing better before you got on this autism-thing." Happened exactly like that last week. Yeah I was masking all the time. Sorry that I try to be more authentic and healthy for myself. Even if it really turns out in 4 years from now, that I dont have autism, why do people have to be so aggressive and toxic... Our needs are our needs. Regardless the reason why we have them. Is it really to much to ask for some acceptence? You dont need to understand everything perfectly. But you could just accept what I am telling you and go from there instead of trying to invalidate my feelings...

[@hameley12]

Jenn, I have to say that this is the best video I have seen about autism in months. I was browsing the YT platform and reading my daily online news when I was recommended your channel. Sadly, some of these facts are true or true, for example. Growing up I had so many meltdowns, I was speech-delayed until age 9, and could not express what was happening in my head or in my body overall. I do know a few people close to me who also grew up autistic and didn't know how to express themselves or coping mechanisms to deal with the world. My dear friend Kari was diagnosed at 54 years, I was diagnosed at 25 years which was eight years ago while I was going through rehab. Everything hurt and my body ached so much to the point that I wanted someone to turn down the volume outside (people's thoughts and murmurs) whenever I walked around. Once I was diagnosed by the doctor he told me that there were ways to co-op with the traits. About a month ago, while I was at work one of the managers came up to me and called me out a cuss word at me. She was upset about my cup. I asked her kindly to please let me clean up the table and she yelled out at me and embarrassed me in front of all the employees. After all of my years in therapy and training went down, down to the floor. I rushed to the restroom to cry and collect myself. Thankfully, management had a long chat with her and cut her hours. I did share my diagnosis with my boss during my first interview. He is very supportive and I am blessed to have found this job. Happily subscribed. 😊🌟🌟🌟

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@hameley12 Absolutely... plenty of adults still having actual meltdowns including myself, although my last one was probably 4 or 5 years ago... But they still happen. Mostly these days I shut down. I'm sorry that happened to you. Thank you for the subscribe - Welcome to the family

[@JustMyAutisticalities]

Thank you Neurodiver-JENN-t! What a great video! I loved the 'Breaking News' flash 🤣💝

[@AuditingWithAutism]

I enjoy how well thought out your videos are. Discussing topics many might miss. I always learn. Thank you for sharing.🎉

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@AuditingWithAutism Thank you friend

[@Green_Roc]

11:44 Ok I think I need to bookmark this because I have failed many times to explain why I have passed out several times this year. 12:01 For me, sensory overwhelm has manifested as actually passing out unconscious for several days. StoryShare: At least twice this year (and once for my autistic friend, so make it three times) was unconscious for several days, from sensory overwhelm. It is true for some of us that our sensitivities dont become less bothersome as we age, me and my friend included. I'm regularly intimidated by other people to 'try to ignore' the ongoing bombardment of noises from dog barks and car bass.... but eventually my ignoring of my feelings does no good when my subconscious actually kicks my consciousness offline for several days, because it had enough of me putting up with this unending sensory bombardment of noise. Waking up in a hospital twice this year has not been a joyride I signed up for. I could avoid passing out if people would just understand how disruptive their noises are and would train their dog to shut the f up, and lower their bass when living in an apartment.

[@MitchellCH]

It is just sad that the general public appears to believe that individuals grow out of their nervous systems at some point around the age of "adulthood."

[@don-eb3fj]

Yes, but it figures - they seem to think people "grow out of" our need for empathy, acceptance, inclusion, and support also; hmmm, could that be a root cause of most neurotypically-derived problems?

[@jombii-7090]

Its almost as if neurotypical folks just completely forget about this thing called puberty🤔 Also this is a great video, im 24 and quite literally most resources and information only talks about children. Very little about adulthood. None of it really makes sense with me being mixed race ALONG with going under the radar up until last year into my young adulthood

[@orionkelly]

Very cool!

[@TessaCoker]

I love your painting! And this video 😊

[@johnhpalmer6098]

Interesting! I'm a diagnosed Autistic adult, at 57, 2 years ago Sept. ASD, level 1, though it may well be I had some level 2 at one time. It's become obvious to some folks that have known me for years to know or at least suspect I might be autistic, only found that out yesterday at a memorial service for long time family friends. Anyway, I'm also CRS (congenital rubella syndrome, thanks to an epidemic in 1964/65. Mom caught it apparently in the 4th week of the first trimester and was suspected, but the autism diagnosis also confirmed I have an intellectual disability, 2 means below my same age peers. Not dumb by any means but still... life has been on/off employment, currently off and some of that stemmed from Covid and with my current age of 59, no one wants to hire me so am on disability through SSDI, and yes, have EBT for food. I own my own home and the mortgage payment so far remains within my income as is currently. Thing is, some sources say, it could well go up once Trump is in office (hope not). So far, so good.

[@PlantingDiversity]

Hey Jen, great video!!! I've also done the same search while looking for images for my videos and found exactly the same thing. It was such a great example, as it feels like there's still a fair way to go for the broader community to understand that autism doesn’t just stop at 18! As someone who scored 100% on the masking section of the CAT-Q, I could really relate to what you said about masking and how traits evolve but don’t disappear. Society puts SO much pressure on adults to “just deal with it,” and just get on with things. Thank you for starting such an important conversation-it’s so needed! 😊

[@KittyInTheGarden]

2:55 Literally 4/5ths. Sorry Jen, I would have let that slide if you hadn't said literally, but my inner pedant got the better of me! Love your videos btw.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@KittyInTheGarden DAMNIT! I even thought about that a few times to make sure I didn't screw it up but yes there are 5 twenty's in 100. Good Lord... Now my comments section is going to be full of that like I have a bunch of autistics in my audience or something 🤣

[@KittyInTheGarden]

@@NeurodiverJENNt Sorry, I started a thing 😜🤣

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@KittyInTheGarden no no, I appreciate it, it's pretty damn factual, literally 🤣

[@InterDivergent]

Looking great Jenn. Nice video too. Understanding of Autism in Adults and education to the general population (through television shows perhaps) have a long way to go. Making it more widely known that people/characters like Sheldon Cooper, Spencer Reid, and Harriet Manners (along with the writer of the series, Holly Smale, diagnosed after she wrote the book, at 39yo) are Autistic (and not just geeks?) would be a great start to helping people understand the spectrum of Autism.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@InterDivergent I think it was Yo Samedy Sam That mentioned that Anthony Hopkins was on the spectrum. Stuff like that can help normalize it for people I believe

[@don-eb3fj]

Interesting that you mention "Sir" Anthony - I heard somewhere recently that even when he was given a positive diagnosis he dismissed it, supposedly with something like doubt of the validity of the condition. I don't remember where or from whom I heard it, but I hope it isn't true; but because of the current perception, stigma, and misrepresentation of autism, I can understand why he and many others would prefer to disassociate from a diagnosis.

[@love-if7wt]

I FEEL SO SEEN 🥺🙏❤ YOU'RE THE BEST 💞

[@carlawilliams6730]

Unfortunately, I am NOT hiding it well anymore lol. Just diagnosed shy of my 54th bday. Apparently, at 53 I started having autistic burnout and regression (hence, seeking an assessment). Meltdowns galore, inability to handle anything I can't control. Such a control freak, and I have been so independent (had to be, because no tribe!!!) my entire adult life, this sucks!!!! My dear husband has been such a trooper through my journey, because I feel like a 2 yr old sometimes 🙄 Letting my freak flag fly right now 😂

[@autisticjenny]

Jenn... this was SOoo good!❤😃i really enjoyed this video.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@autisticjenny Thanks so much Good Jenn 🤣

[@thebastille-m9o]

The news skit had me rolling

[@katzenbekloppt_mf]

Thank You Jenn😊. I think it is a good video to explain others (allistics) what it means to feel autistic behind the mask they see.

[@tims9434]

I love your content Jenn

[@ronrothrock7116]

I'm not sure I would agree that as an adult with autism that I would call it a "coping mechanism" or masking it. I think all people have to learn to fit in with their peers. Those of us with autism just don't think like normal people, so our adaptation is a little more substantial, but no more so than, say, someone coming from a different culture. I think it should be called an adaptation. Calling it coping or masking implies something negative, but adaptive is more neutral. Everyone has to adapt to their surroundings. Sure, you CAN call it coping if you want, but I do not consider my autism any sort of negative or handicap. Using neutral or positive terms helps people from victimizing themselves.

[@urseliusurgel4365]

I was diagnosed with ASD at 59 years of age. I found the process of discovering that I was autistic and subsequently being diagnosed almost entirely positive. At last I had a reason for the way I am. Throughout my life I thought that most people had similar problems to me, but they were just stronger and coped with them better than me. I now know that I am the strong person, coping on a daily basis with problems that do not even exist for neurotypical people. Despite bouts of selective mutism in my early years at school and my pathological hatred and fear of school, nothing was ever done by way of addressing my problems. I went through the entirety of education, up to PhD level, and a subsequent career as a biomedical research scientist, with no form of accommodation. In a way, though difficult, this lack of support made me very tough and resilient. I could have done without the huge levels of anxiety before exams and public speaking at conferences and seminars, however!

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@urseliusurgel4365 yeah I Austin wonder how much strength I gained through adversity, while also recognizing that there was a lot that I could have done without.

[@pardalote]

Thanks Jen, that was awesome! You argued your points so well. I loved that news/ weather combo. Autisticy day? Bring it on. I am all set. ❤🕷

[@tristan4777]

Thanks for highlighting the issues regarding the perception/understanding of autism. Hopefully, the workplace will catch up with understanding autism and stop the easy one size fits all approach. The one where they give you some software you don't really need, but avoid at all costs the awareness training that could help everyone. Which would may be also get them to question any "uncanny valley" assumptions at interviews where they conclude you know your stuff but don't fit somehow (wonder why..hmm). 'Cos as you said autistic children become working autistic adults (well some of us do).

[@marisa5359]

Thank you. This is so witty, well-presented, and spot on.

[@BlueRoseHelen252]

Hey Jenn, always enjoy your info packed videos. Enjoy your Autisticy day 😊

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

☂️

[@pikmin4743]

I love the breaking news skit! ❤️😂

[@blueorchid5971]

Im an adult but I have the reactions you described as immature or childish 😬 im wondering if i have higher support needs or im just a bad person that lacks self control. Jenn said most not all so I'm hoping im not the only one 😅

[@misspat7555]

I’d go with option 1; also, you may be in an environment that is a terrible fit for your needs. ❤

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

You're not, And I wouldn't call those reactions immature or childish. I am so sorry if that was the message this video sent you. There are many adults on the spectrum that still experience externally observable behaviors. You are absolutely not a bad person or someone that lacks self-control! You are autistic and you are valuable and worthy.

[@gmlpc7132]

This was all very well-put, particularly the points related to conversation. On that theme there is the stereotype that autistic people talk obsessively about their special interests. That may be true of some children but autistic adults have almost all learned that if they do so they will be negatively judged or that there's no point unless they know the other person shares that interest. However that can have a more subtle conversational impact because the autistic person who feels they can't talk about their interests then struggles to find things to talk about and they may over-rely on the other person to talk and set the conversational theme. The autistic person may still be negatively judged because they say so little about themselves and seem too private. Generally speaking autistic adults are well aware of the traits that get negatively judged but trying to suppress those traits often just leads to other forms of negative judgement.

[@Dancestar1981]

It never disappears anyone who suggests that needs their head read

[@jefffixesit60]

As always, I love what you’re doing for all of us, neurodiv’s and neurotyp’s alike! I’m 69, AuDHD, and still have to stifle my urge to share how awesome I feel about bicycles (or anything with wheels) are with everyone I meet. We’re so lucky to have you lovingly sharing your own AuDHD journey and adventures in neurodivergence. You will always have my undivided attention, you’re awesome!😎❤️

[@kellyschroeder7437]

Would be nice if teachers, therapists, docs, nurses were educated on early signs of such so there could be earlier and better intervention for us ??? 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻💞💙

[@raskbell]

I've always wondered if part of the confusion is in the name "neurodevelopmental disorder". On the surface it seems to imply a condition that affects the development of a child, and when they've "developed" into an adult they would grow out of it. However, this is probably giving people too much credit, as I doubt they've thought even that much about it. As you said, their expereince with it is from autism parents/caregivers who historically have dominated the conversation on autism with the general public.

[@nathanh6439]

Thanks for the cookie! I really needed a snack. Is it chocolate chip? Peanut butter? Oatmeal raisin? I have always liked plain old sugar cookies myself.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@nathanh6439 I have been waiting to hand this out to someone! Here you go. It is chocolate chip. 🍪

[@nathanh6439]

@@NeurodiverJENNt 😁

[@gothboschincarnate3931]

Sometimes, that lost generation can be found in the local graveyard. I wish the govt would consider this.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@gothboschincarnate3931 This is unfortunately true 😥

[@tdsollog]

I'm 53. I got my ADHD diagnosis in late Nov 2024, and I'm getting assessed for ASD.

[@scotthrich]

Thanks Jenn

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

Thank you for joining the priemere and also commenting here Scott!

[@Alan_Duval]

I would imagine that the skew in the image search, whilst partially for all of the reasons you mentioned, is probably also due to all those parents now "worried" about some behaviour their child is exhibiting and some "helpful" person suggesting that it might be indicative of autism. Both aspects feed into each other on a loop, sure, but I don't think it's the way it is just because people don't know that autistic kids grow up to be autistic adults.

[@Green_Roc]

If you come into my own (47 year old autistic) home, I'll share with you my favorite lego set. I still fall into a meltdown age 47. Aint no tantrum.

[@JayBurkhart]

Good presentation. Thank you

[@j.b.4340]

2:17, autism nearly always occurs with comorbidities, never alone. ADHD, all of the aneuploidies, Sotos Syndrome, etc., all have a good chance of occurring with autism.

[@Derek_Garnham]

7:28 - please keep quiet about the secret toe twidlers, (i feel like my cover has just been blown, maybe its the lovely way you look into the camera when you deliver these gems)

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@Derek_Garnham my bad

[@paulc6966]

Great video! :)

[@13SuperSuirre]

All this helps me understand myself better. When they cancel my favorite food/drink/whatever I feel this great sense of loss and don't know what to do. I flounder trying to find something I can just tolerate as a replacement but nothing will ever really do.

[@Green_Roc]

13:18 True. I learned to walk out.

[@jonkas4542]

Thank you.

[@AshleyReneeVlog]

I waited all year to be seen by a “professional.” After three appointments she concluded that I can’t be autistic because I understood the sarcastic tone used in the children’s ados-2 🤦‍♀️ If you are an autistic adult even the process of seeking diagnosis is infantilizing.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@AshleyReneeVlog wow

[@Crouteceleste]

I think among the reasons that there are more search results and accomodations for kids than for adults, is because kids are closely managed and monitored by people who have a legal obligation to keep them in good health, education and well-being (so, parents). Also, love for your kids imply that you are more concerned for them and so you are more preoccupied with doing things right for them. Adults are supposed to care for themselves, and/or find a partner and care for each other, it's not a society rule or law to keep them in good health and well-being anymore, it's a personal matter then. If you DON'T promote your own wellbeing and good health/education, no one will care, there are no spaces in current society to care for each other as a group of adults.

[@Yellow_tangfish]

I was told for the longest time that girls don’t have autism and don’t get it. Now I identify as the myth, and the legend. Thank you. 😂

[@misspat7555]

Being autistic as an adult can just end up looking like needing excessive “alone” or “down” time; becoming exhausted easily for no clear physical reason. It can look like “ye olde anxiety and depression”. Because those are things neurotypicals can understand and therefore accept. 🫠

[@MitchellCH]

I think most people randomly encountering the term autism in the wild end up associating with it a definition of "mental deficiency." That was me before I actually took a tiny peek into the facts.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@MitchellCH same! When My son's teacher asked us if we'd ever had him tested for autism I thought she was saying she was concerned that he was intellectually disabled... Which he isn't. So I too erroneously thought this before beginning my own journey.

[@abigailsanderson5943]

Until my son was diagnosed autistic i thought autism was that kid who couldn't talk and would hit themselves rocking back and forth or screaming. I now realize there is a 99% chance that i am also autistic, i started doing a lot of research nearly 10 months now and watching someone describe your life and experiences to a T. I finally had words for how i have felt my entire life. Made me cry a lot still do most day, still waiting on assessment results but i feel like the guy wasn't even listening to me and decided the moment we met that i wasn't autistic his attitude said it all. He didn't even want my previous history notes and i know i was masking even though i tried to tell myself i wouldn't but men make me extremely nervous. And i was afraid he would laugh at me or make fun of me

[@Autistic_AF]

Weather Jenn! 😂😂😂

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@Autistic_AF these patterns aren't going to track themselves

[@4everpee]

I was very badly on it before I started to do neurofeedback protocol with neuroptima 19 senssors helmet. If someone want to go that route only try centers with multiple senssor helmet. I improved quite alot. Nodoubt I was s level 2 almost level 3and my brain was on fire all the time. I was feeling that skull will explode at some point and I still have mast cells problem.

[@peoplenotabigfan.2008]

That might be the best "breaking news" I've ever seen.

[@emaceratus]

Amen to that 💯

[@redblueiris]

Hey Jenn did you get a sensory overload from the 166 previous comments... I'm the 167th so I'll keep it short, lol love you.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@redblueiris I appreciate all the comments 😁 Thank you for yours!!

[@xAwareWolfx]

What drives me insane are the people who say things like, "autism didn't exist back in my day, it must be the food or vaccines!" Like no. You just ignored, bullied, rejected, or institutionalized those that were likely neurodivergent 🙄

[@sneggleblech]

I was diagnosed at 29

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@sneggleblech 39 for me 😳

[@digger1989]

@@NeurodiverJENNt 41 didn't take it seriously and embrace it until 49.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@digger1989 Josh, That guy I interviewed on my channel quite a while back, said something similar

[@digger1989]

@@NeurodiverJENNt I didn't realize that the autism umbrella was big enough to include me. I felt like an imposter so I didn't really take it serious until the pandemic.

[@DamienClarke2438]

No adult autism is a hangover from 1980s academic papers, an issue relating to lack of relevant research papers and working with the community

[@misspat7555]

May be related to the idea that kids “outgrew” ADHD when they stopped running g around the classroom getting into things when they were supposed to be sitting and listening (which a fair number of us never did in the first place). 🙄

[@Green_Roc]

May I never stop thinking about dinosaurs. My favorite game is Ark.

[@rockstarjazzcat]

Strong chance of neurodivergence on the front range this morning, and now ‘JENNt. 😂 🕊️💜🤙🏻🍉

[@rockstarjazzcat]

As regime change hits washington I wrestle with the hideous origin of the diagnostic term as it was immediately coopted by eugene-assists, and children didn’t become adults. Thank you for lightening tough experiences with your humor, Jenn. With love and best wishes to you and yours from over here in Boulder county, D

[@ryn2844]

There are some people whose meltdowns still look like throwing themselves on the floor. I don't know if implying that adults can just control that is helpful, because it's not true for everyone. Not all of us can mask and script and learn social rules and hide our stimming and speak. I feel like what you're describing is accurate mainly to low support needs people (and that's important too!), but going 'ugh, no I'm an adult, of course I don't throw myself on the floor over food, and of course I don't flap my hands in public, I've learned that's socially unacceptable' sounds a bit judgemental towards those who are (even) less able to fit into societal norms than you are. I don't like people implying that I'm immature when I look visibly aut!stic. It makes people take my autonomy away. And I'm not even level 3 support needs. Can't imagine the amount of disempowerment they must experience. Not everyone gets to have control over their environment when they grow up. Allowing nonspeaking adults to have that control (through AAC) should be a focus of activism. Ignoring their existence by leaving them out of the conversation is not what we should be doing. I agree that it is important to challenge what people think autism can look like, but dismantling stereotypes can't be the whole focus, because some people fit the stereotypes, and those people also deserve respect and autonomy. I can't help but notice that this bears a lot of resemblance to respectability politics, meaning, we're mainly focusing on combating stereotypes, thereby tacitly agreeing that it would be bad to fit them, which throws the most marginalized among us under the bus. Maybe a better strategy would be to insist that even if some of us are like the stereotypes, we still all deserve to be treated like human beings with feelings and thoughts. PS 'nonspeaking' is the preferred term, because 'nonverbal' implies that they can't grasp words at all, and couldn't possibly communicate in other ways, which usually isn't true. Source = Jordyn Zimmerman, nonspeaking AAC activist.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

Thank you for sharing these thoughts. You're absolutely right that there are still some autistics in adulthood that still experience these things. I think society might still view them as autistic though while not understanding that not every adult acts that way, which was what I was trying to point out in this video. However I completely understand how the message that all autistics should be able to "control" themselves and be mature would be harmful. Thank you for bringing this, and the fact that the preferred term is non-speaking as opposed to nonverbal, to my attention. Comments sections are great to fill in the gaps that I miss.

[@ryn2844]

@@NeurodiverJENNt Yes, agreed. it is very important that we get across the message that not every adult melts down in public etc, but also that some do, and that those are still acceptable human beings.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@ryn2844 100%. I want to bring value to this community and everything you've said here is valid and holds merit. I think I need to do a separate video to get the message right.

[@OldTimer1970]

When I've made my choice and someone says, "Are you sure, did you take a look at the others?" I then doubt my choice while also feeling under attack. Meltdown, and to everyone around I look like a really nasty piece of work, luckily if there are children around, I don't have to mop up the bloody fleshy bits. What!?

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@OldTimer1970 putting the kids to work eh? Yeah I think meltdowns can even look different in all of us. I am more likely to engage in shutdowns. That is my favorite modus operandi

[@OldTimer1970]

@@NeurodiverJENNt I used to scream, but learnt that just walking away from the whole situation. I'll try shopping again next year, maybe. I'm saying nothing about children working, they like to play with my mushy bits and that's a no, two things I hate sharing crayons and my mushy bits.We could have a whole theme tune, The Woods by Travis BrooksDon't have to thank me I've added it to your bill.

[@don-eb3fj]

​@@NeurodiverJENNtThere's OTHER M.O.s besides shutdown? Really?!!! 😮 What sweepstakes do you have to win to claim THAT prize?

[@OldTimer1970]

@@don-eb3fj trust me, it's not nice, example teacher throws blackboard rubber at me for not paying attention, hits me in the side of head, I was 12, my reaction to hurl my chair with full force over two rows of children, and broke his nose, it was over before i'd even had a chance to think. I was charged, but it does have it's perks, no one ever bothered me at that school after, I was expelled, but still.

[@drusillahalliwell]

I am 56 years old and I just found out that I was Autistic last July 26 2024

[@kellyschroeder7437]

All kids. No adults 😫💔😢

[@suribepe]

Who would have thought my NFL addiction would be seen more acceptable than a Hot Wheels addiction?

[@mike3133f]

Not much different than pans/pamdas, great name for funding, pediatric, but same thing happens, what do you call it if they are past pediatric??? Untreated , Its not like it goes away. I have seen it called adults with pans. As you have said it seems people think things magically go away as adults. Late diagnosis last week, results next week here at 53.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@mike3133f absolutely. I recently listened to a mental health professional who shared a story of a time she identified possible autism in a geriatric patient and reported that to the doctor who thought she had dementia. When The mental health professional told him her suspicions, he replied "I don't work in pediatrics" Congrats on your recent diagnosis/evaluation

[@zoinksbie]

Audulthood is hard.

[@asinsodojrn]

Thanks for reminding me i was ordering DoorDash 2 hours ago because I'm famished 😅

[@DavidLindes]

16:04 - As yet another one of those folks, diagnosed earlier this year at age 50, I hereby (jokingly) declare that I wasn't autistic until I was 50, in hopes that it will skew the data towards the existence of proportionally more autistic adults, thus emphasizing the need for more research on autistic adults. Yeah, that's how it works, right? ;)

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

🤣

[@DavidLindes]

@ 😁

[@jakemichael8586]

asd man 31! home delivery rocks! was normal back in 1800-1900s before the car for meany to use devilry. my mind is all pictures so communication is hard. like avoiding nt people. people burn me out. o the old cars that is so me built up a 1977 f100. i seek out old parts as new ones are often bad. yes sensory stuff gets worse. i customize every thing as nts make for bad engineers. that is why i built my second car a 1977 f100. that paper sums up NT people! wow asd is life long .now way wow how dumb can thy be? thanks good vid

[@cblaney3931]

Biggest shock of this video - FORTY TWO?????? 😲😲😲 I guess it's true when they say autistic people look young for their age! Go Jen!!

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

I'm taking this comment to the bank. No takies baksies.

[@Barney_Greenway]

💯

[@laura.bseyoga]

💚

[@Mkognito]

❤❤❤

[@JonBrase]

2:17 Down Syndrome and Autism aren't the same thing, but Autism is apparently a fairly common comorbidity of Down Syndrome.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@JonBrase correct, I've learned it happens in about 20% of cases I think. However for the broader population that does not know this, an unfortunate byproduct is that they might conflate autism with intellectual disability

[@cossym]

How did you know about my 11 year smoothie breakfast?

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

👀

[@REZZA2020]

research article excerpt 😆

[@yrdjuret]

Awe-tists

[@yrdjuret]

And if you wonder what TIST means: "ACM Transactions on Intelligent Systems and Technology (TIST)"

[@alifmuhammadchicago]

"Autism Radar" 😂😂😂 Edit: You're 42?! 😮 I really let myself go. I've got no excuses to look like this.

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@alifmuhammadchicago yes man I'm getting old 🤣

[@alifmuhammadchicago]

@NeurodiverJENNt - well, you oughta share your self-care regimen, cuz it must be working. 😅 great video, btw!

[@brianthomas3910]

I actually don’t want special treatment or accommodations , everyone has their cross to bare before we all face the same fate in the end, my Asperger’s is a force field against the socially and emotionally draining lol Quote from the animated version of around the world in 80 days: learn to use what you have got so you’ll not need what you have not.. oddly enough that changed me and how I viewed the world 🤷‍♂️

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@brianthomas3910 This is mostly true for me too. The only accommodation I would ask for from others is understanding and patience. I need people to understand I'm not a bitch or stuck up if I'm not talking to them at social gatherings... Or that I might struggle in social functions in general... Understanding that noises, sounds, and smells bother me, or that my need for time alone isn't about you etc... But most of the other accommodations I can make for myself like wearing ear plugs or giving myself time away. I know different strokes for different folks and other people might need more accommodations, but that's where I'm at personally.

[@don-eb3fj]

A "kinder, gentler" version of society that doesn't put unrealistic expectations on mere mortals and let children slip through the gaps of ignorance, distraction, and narcissism might be nice for a change though.

[@withheldformyprotection5518]

Texas has a front range? 😂

[@NeurodiverJENNt]

@@withheldformyprotection5518 I'm assuming not, but I had no idea what else to say 🤣

[@REZZA2020]

Your humour is first class. Experienced all of the above. Invalidation is incredibly harmful. Stereyptyped imagery and stock photos also unhelpful

[@findlestick]

Thank you.

[@WoohooliganComedy]

💖