What is Neurodiversity? 10 Neurodivergent Traits

This video explores "what is neurodiversity" along with 10 neurodivergent traits.
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⏰ TIMESTAMPS
0:32 What is neurodiversity?
1:45 List begins
2:10 Sensory differences
2:51 Executive functioning challenges
3:14 Hyperfocus on special interests
3:51 Intense emotional experiences
4:23 Needing alone time to recharge
4:50 Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria
5:28 Demand avoidance
6:12 Preference for routine, structure and organization
6:19 Covert stims
6:56 Delayed processing
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DISCLAIMER: Taylor Heaton is not a licensed psychologist or specialist healthcare professional. Her services do not replace the care of psychologists or other healthcare professionals. Please note that Taylor can’t take any responsibility for the results of your actions, nor any harm or damage you suffer as a result of the use, or non-use of the information available through her website, KZbin Channel, or social media accounts. Please use judgment and conduct due diligence before taking any action or implementing any plan or practice suggested or recommended by Taylor Heaton or Mom on the Spectrum. Please note that Taylor doesn't make any guarantees about the results of the information you may apply from her website, KZbin channel, and/or social media accounts. Taylor shares educational and informational resources that are intended to help you succeed in navigating life as an autistic adult. You nevertheless need to know that your outcome will be the result of your own efforts, your particular situation, and innumerable other circumstances beyond Taylor's knowledge and control. Taylor is an Amazon affiliate and may receive commissions on qualifying purchases from affiliate links. Taylor is a Flare affiliate and may receive commissions on qualifying purchases from Flare links.
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#latediagnosedautistic #momonthespectrum #autisticadult #worldautismday #autismacceptancemonth

[@Warspite03]

Giving Orion a run for his money in the loud shirt department 😂🏆

[@jackiemcdonell1737]

Your comment made me laugh so I thank you bc I needed that at this moment!

[@virtuosoMo]

😂

[@turtleanton6539]

This Wins. Easily

[@TheCimbrianBull]

🇦🇺 👀

[@CC-xn5xi]

You look great! Colorful and cheerful!

[@kalt1976]

I wish it would be called Autism Appreciation month ❤

[@kalt1976]

The combination of RSD and delayed processing is just awful - that feeling in the pit of your stomach, when it dawns on you that you might have said something wrong to the person you talked or texted with yesterday, and now they probably think you are a horrid person.

[@MomontheSpectrum]

You’re right it’s an intensely uncomfortable combo 😣

[@Perseverant-Soul]

Oh absolutely. Well put.. I know exactly what that feels like.. Sympathies. It can be rough indeed. And also having things like that even replay in your mind so much you finally bring it up and they act like "That was ___ ago, you're overthinking things and overreacting for it bothering you. I didn't even remember." and like you put yourself through it etc....

[@ratlinggull2223]

​@@Perseverant-Soulthat person isn't worth caring about then if they respond like that

[@Perseverant-Soul]

@@ratlinggull2223 Several people like that, that's my struggle. But thanks anyway... If only it were as simple as that though.

[@mommabahre6017]

Delayed processing is my middle name! I'm not insulated until I'm driving home. Every Time!

[@ShaunaAurora]

People with CPTSD have a lot of these traits as well. I have sensory processing disorders, issues with executive functioning, needing time alone, but also a lot of the others you listed. And while our brains have some plasticity in terms of how we can become more neurotypical with the right therapies, we still need support from our community while we go through these therapies.

[@ShaunaAurora]

I just want to say again, I’ve learned so much about myself as someone with CPTSD by watching your channel!

[@bethsiler1688]

There are definitely overlapping characteristics between Autism and many other disorders, including CPTSD. I think many people diagnose themselves with Autism (and/or get diagnosed by someone else), but probably do not fully meet the DSM-V definition/criteria and/or who display characteristics/behaviors that are not exclusive to Autism.

[@JeanLoupRSmith]

Not being able to verbalise emotions is a huge problem. I'm multilingual and when the emotions pile up there isn't a language I can find the right words in to express how I'm feeling. It's a complete blank which I can only express by saying things along the lines of "words are hard"

[@MomontheSpectrum]

I feel this.

[@Milaperadotti]

I feel the same way. My daughter is low functioning autism. I had a psychiatrist that I was trying to talk to about it and he doesn’t know much about autism and he immediately shut me down because I wasn’t the stereotypical autistic person that he’s thinking of like lower functioning autism .he doesn’t know much about it so ,I found somebody else to get tested and sure enough I’m autistic.

[@craigcarter400]

Delayed processing, info dumping, executive dysfunction, hyperfocus and the desire to randomly learn a lot about something, and RSD. Those are the ones I identify the most with.

[@withheldformyprotection5518]

My covert stim is music, which also doubles as a special interest. I know I am disregulated when a song will stick in my brain on loop. It acts to disconnect my brain from negative inputs and is very calming. Alternatively, a phrase like “I’m so tired” on repeat in my brain will indicate disregulation, but this does not seem to calm like music, but tells me to flee.

[@turtleanton6539]

Same🎉

[@MomontheSpectrum]

This is very interesting! Thanks for sharing.

[@johnzimpelman9018]

Music has been an integral part of my life in particular it's my stimming as well as it keeps me "centered " I have memorized guitar chord progression, guitar riffs and drum loops of many songs, thousands to be exact. I always wear wireless headphones when I am out in public listening to live concerts. Finally , I love to play the guitar and drums. Music is truly a universal language for us on the spectrum.

[@CaptainSmiles]

Thanks for explaining this. I use music to stim and had not realized it was a possible indicator that I was disregulated. Will check this out.

[@MsFoxy-bo4uc]

All of them. While I am not “medically official” with Autism, I’ve been researching for several months and am really sure I am autistic. I have 2 pages (front and back) of traits. I have my appointment in June to be officially diagnosed. I don’t need it but everyone else does. Pretty sure my kids are too.

[@janenuss6]

Alone time! Crucial. People get so offended by it

[@MomontheSpectrum]

Yeah it’s not personal at all! I need my alone time so that I can enjoy my time with others more.

[@PervertHoover2]

Neurivergents are difficult, beautiful and worth knowing.

[@whitneymason406]

RSD was a breakthrough one for me. I remember bursting into tears over getting low grades in school or if I got critiqued and wondered what was "wrong" with me. Thanks for going over these terms! 💞

[@MomontheSpectrum]

yeah it's wild how sometimes just knowing a term for something can be incredibly liberating!

[@Akribelasurfacing]

I heard over and over again when I was growing up that I was too sensitive, I had to toughen, etc. I would always burst into tears when trying to express myself and was very easily upset and needed tons of alone time, for which I was also berated.

[@laurajaneo]

I relate to all of them. Not being able to put words to emotions is the most challenging for me as I can never say how I am feeling. It’s so frustrating, but on the up side I value my ability to hyperfocus

[@ashleam865]

You mean I went 31 years thinking everyone could hear electricity in the walls? Wtf. I thought that was just like a normal thing.

[@MomontheSpectrum]

I know right! Not everyone has super hearing like many of us

[@cocor.3653]

I haven’t even watched the video yet 😅 but was combing the comments and this one stopped me in my tracks. I always thought this was normal too! Literally last night I was re emphasizing to my husband how I need the kids in bed at 9sharp so I can have my one hr of only hearing the house making noise 😂 I’ve been stricter on my sleep and also look forward to an early bedtime so I can wake up at 6 and only hear the house for a couple hrs! 😂

[@theresjer]

Demand avoidance AKA 'compulsively self directed'

[@beth8775]

Love it

[@bill4632]

#6 is definitely one of several reasons I believe that I quit my job last week. lol. Dealt with condescending narcissistic co-workers.

[@smvb77]

"...scrunching your toes in your shoes..." as I am scrunching my toes. I didn't realize I do that.

[@Mushroom321-]

Its comforting !!👋🏻😃😼

[@Mushroom321-]

Its comforting !! 😃👋🏻😼🤔

[@Khsfldd]

RSD is the worst. I can be having a good day, then get one piece of feedback and my day is ruined.

[@MomontheSpectrum]

Totally get this.

[@chrismaxwell1624]

delayed processing was great for bullies. In school I'd not even recognize a bully trying bully me. I would later sometime 20 minutes later or even the next day. Still was hurtful but it bored the bullies so much they just didn't bother bullying me anymore. But there was always a new bully that learn that lesson. I just remember a guy at Grad asking why nothing seems bother me and I don't care what others think. I could even tell him real reason as I didn't want say it's because I'm non spectrum. I do care I just don't show it how they expect and in moment I don't even realize.

[@aurorecdc]

everything's resonate ! one example : I went to the physiotherapist a couple of days ago. He had to work on my jaws but was sweating from his palms because of massaging other areas. It was a nightmare. Sweaty palms rubbing my jaws. I came back home and had to immediately wash my face ! Not to mention he hadn't the best breath and since he was working on my face, I had to avoid breathing when our breaths "met"... After that I was sooo tired (both from that and from the massage) *sorry English is not my mother tongue, I might have made some mistakes*

[@katzenbekloppt2412]

OMG that sounds horrible! Poor You😟!

[@MrDaydreamer1584]

"... this is my biggest area of frustration as an autistic person so executive functioning challenge..." Me too. Executive functioning is my biggest challenge.

[@JeremiahSenner]

I probably have less sensory issues than most, but otherwise this is a fairly accurate list of traits I have.

[@joyh6770]

Definitely all of the above- a fellow AuDHDer here. I had a particularly difficult time in the executive functioning department this week. Long story short a shift I had signed up for got abruptly canceled 1.5 hrs into the job. I had to leave and I got stuck in the parking lot. Just sitting in my car (crying ☹️). I was having a very difficult time dealing with the sudden change and couldn't transition into what to do next. Eventually I decided to go on a walk- it helps my ADHD hyperactivity urges and the rhythm of walking is soothing to the tism.

[@MomontheSpectrum]

Walking is a great way to work through transitions. And yes they’re so tough. Recently the software I’ve been using to manage my finances for TEN YEARS is no longer available and the change has been SO UPSETTING. I’ve lost a lot of time just zoning out and being upset about it.

[@lmack6596]

Aw man, I really struggle when plans change abruptly too. Good idea to go for a walk. Something similar happened to me a while ago. I was lucky that a friend happened to be free, and I went round to hers for a cup of tea anda chat. In the end I had a nice day, but I remember feeling very discombobulated that moment I learned the day I thought I had planned was not to be.

[@lin1620]

Im on the Uk waiting list for my assessment (over a year and a half wait so far). Im week 4 into a new job and have been struggling a lot with processing, to the point I am annoying myself not remembering everything. Then today I was criticised for doing something (and it was a bit blown out of proportion by the other person) but I found myself starting to cry and then frustratingly unable to stop. Even more annoying trying to put into words why I got so upset and why this smallish event set me off. I just gave up in the end and let people think whatever (probably why I got so upset over it). I then just get so annoyed at myself for not just handling things more adult-y and less emotional. Sigh. Plus I hate crying in front of people!

[@MomontheSpectrum]

It’s so hard to put words to why I’m upset sometimes! Totally relate. Sorry to hear you had a tough day today. 😣

[@lin1620]

@@MomontheSpectrum tough day turned into a tougher week and now I no longer work there ☹️. Not my shortest shelf life at a job but very close...

[@loniwilliams82]

Sometimes its just too heavy and too much at a time. Everything was relatable. 🥴

[@MomontheSpectrum]

I get that. It can be a lot to process.

[@DRSmith8808]

Thanks for saying you may do some or all of these things and be ND. Unlike a recent top 10 video on another channel that insisted you must do all 10 things or you are not ND.

[@T1MB05L1C3]

Yea I am ND but only 6.5 of them really applied to me

[@EsmereldaPea]

Yikes. I wonder what channel that was???

[@DRSmith8808]

@@EsmereldaPea Oh just one of the main channels that come up if you watch this sort of content.

[@jessicahill369]

So many of these resonate with me. My entire life, I could hear the old tube TV's frequency of being on even when the screen was blank. It hurt my ears. Explains so much!

[@suzannetunnicliffe2422]

Hello, I seem to resonate with numbers 2,3,4,5,6,8,9. on the list of 10. Every time I see or hear those traits, I find myself nodding in agreement. It's a lot for me to take in. Hope everyone has some nice time too.

[@elvwood]

These are the ones that really resonate for me (most significant first): alone time, hyperfocus, covert stims, RSD, routine, lacking words for emotions, demand avoidance, delayed processing. As you say, celebrating different ways of thinking is a good thing - someone recently said "if you want something done quickly and well, get an interested ADHDer to do it"!

[@lindaferguson2640]

I can have days where the demand avoidance is so much to the fore that I can't start the tasks I've set myself, let alone what others ask me to do. I can do something on impulse - but not if I've planned to do it. Weird.

[@MomontheSpectrum]

It is definitely a weird phenomenon that I experience so often 🫠😵‍💫🤯

[@katherinehealy6534]

I resonate with most of them, but I’m not, overtly anyway, overly bothered by sensory input. Glary lights bother me, and so can too many dissonant sounds going on at once, but not really to the point that I have trouble coping. And although I like a certain amount of predictably, organization and routine to my daily life, it doesn’t ruin my day if something unexpected happens. Ordinarily, I roll with the punches pretty well, although sometimes it’s just easier to go with the flow than swim against the tide. I have no idea if I’m neurodivergent or not, and at almost 73 most likely won’t even try to find out, but I still appreciate the info in your videos.

[@MomontheSpectrum]

💕

[@DaveShap]

Hey Taylor just wanted to say thanks for everything you do!

[@MomontheSpectrum]

You’re very welcome. Thanks for your comment. 💕

[@herchelleonwood7463]

yes , give me google and 5-10 minutes and i am an expert on anything ! Taylor you nailed it again as i connect with almost every one of these traits, you have been reading some good books or something, your easily as helpful and knowledgeable as any of the many, many , many therapists i have had throughout the years.

[@skillit32]

Those all sound like me! Wasn’t too long ago that I didn’t know what many of those things were. It takes awhile to see how these things are reflected in your life. Thanks for this video, I really appreciate it. 😊

[@MomontheSpectrum]

You're welcome! Thanks for your comment.

[@johnmorris6820]

More "Covert Stims" for when even a subtle heel tap is too much. Drawing rectangles on the wall with the "lasers" in your eyes. Listening to music you make for yourself, silently.

[@generalotter9866]

I relate to 8/10 of these but I got a bit confused because it felt like you used neurodivergent synonyms with autistic (sorry if I misread the situation) because from my understanding please correct me if I’m wrong neurodivergent is an umbrella term for all neurological variations that differ from the norm and make it harder to do certain things in this neurotypical world. This means that someone with SLD (Specific Learning Disability) like dyslexia is also neurodivergent but I don’t think my dyslexia is responsible for me relating to these traits. Sorry if I’m overreacting but I don’t think you should use neurodivergent when you only mean autism and/or ADHD even though they are probably the most talked about because it excludes many individuals who are neurodivergent but wont relate to any of these traits

[@AdventureswithLycanmyGSD]

Me? All ten of them......

[@genuineimpulse9134]

Several hit for me and I'm beginning to see I'm more autistic vs ADHD, that one wasn't diagnosed until age 42, Kleinfelder's on there too. 1) As a child for sure, but still....If there's any thing emotional at all, child at a piano recital, school play, anything with a crowd and applause I'll start crying. There's no thoughts at all. There's no connection of that's sad or joyous and I'm having a reaction to it, it just starts and so of course I've always been labeled a cry baby. 3) In May of 21 I had an idea for a two minute fantasy. I started writing it out and in August of that year I'd written 900K words in one file and kind of only realized it because the computer was slowing. Thanks for your content. I'm crying.

[@cziegle3794]

Yay top 85 and top 589 comments and likes. Love this channel. Best to you and your family. Thanks for making this video.

[@MomontheSpectrum]

You’re welcome! Thanks for your comment.

[@user-sw6ko4sx8b]

Delayed processing is why I can't drive. I don't register visual stimuli fast enough.

[@merbst]

@Taylor Heaton ! I greatly value & appreciate your content & perspective, but this being a Friday night I must stop there because I deeply respect your motherhood.😇

[@AlfUckhamHall]

As someone who has two children on the spectrum, I've learning about neuro-divergence for the last 24 years. But at age 61, I was diagnosed with high functioning Autism and while not shocked, it's still come as set back for me and the realisation that I've been beating myself up for many years, because I didn't know why I'm the way I am or why I've behaved in certain situations. I've always known I felt different, but couldn't put my finger on it, I told my parents several times up to my early teens about how I felt, but they did nothing, just treat me like a naughty child and scolded or even physically chastised. In the end, I more or less stopped talking to them or discussing anything, they accused me of being secretive, deceptive and hiding things. One time, I asked them if they would care to sit down and talk to me, so we could discuss what I'd been telling them for years and that I wanted to explain what and how I was feeling, it lasted all of five minutes before my already short tempered father accused me of lying and saying things to try and divert attention from myself and not accept responsibility for my actions, from then on, it was me against the world. I've gone through life till now, trying to fit in, behave normally, work, have relationships, buy a property, have children and just get on, but I've been treat badly by those who claimed to love me, were supposed to have my back and be my other half in life, but no, I was ignored, betrayed and even robbed by the very woman who said I was her rock. The hole this left in my finances took me a very long time to pay off, recoup and will haunt me for the rest of my days. This also makes me feel like I've failed, let myself down and made myself a laughing stock, but I know this is because of the self doubt and lack of self esteem I've come to believe in, because it's what my parents drummed into me and made me feel worthless. Considering I've actually made a life for myself, worked very hard to support a family and at one stage, had three jobs to try and bring in enough money to be able to do so, I should have a sense of pride, but I don't as I feel I could/should have done more. There wasn't enough hours in the day, my hobbies stopped, socialising stopped, I became depressed and unable to get out of the funk I was in, it got so bad, I took ill in the early hours of one morning and rushed into hospital, my blood pressure was so high and uncontrolable, my family were called in because I wasn't expected to make it. My BP was 232/161 and I was in big trouble, when my family came in, my now ex partner looked down at me and actually smiled, I whispered in the nurses ear that I wanted my family to leave, they did after an argument, but as soon as they had gone, my BP started to drop, it was then I knew I had to get away from my ex. After a week in ITC, I was released, but didn't go home, I stayed with friends and approached the local housing authority for a property of my own, I was seen as very vulnerable and in crisis, so was allocated a bungalow that a friend of mine paid to furnish and I'm eternally grateful for. Since then, I've picked myself up and got on with life. There has been dark times, but I'm still here, I'm now 63 and engaging with the mental health team for my Autism and am not or never looking back. I've survived, built a new life and realised what I've gone through, this make me proud that I've done it mostly of my own volition and some help from great friends, but I am eternally thankful. Autism is not like a cough or a cold, you cannot get rid of it and unless you are diagnosed, you have no idea that you have it, this means there's no rhyme or reason for anything you may say/do or the reactions you take to a situation that may make you feel you are in danger. If you have any doubt, seek help and this in turn will help you to more understand how, why and who you are.

[@zerodeconduite804]

Girl, you've been wearing that shirt in every video, and I love it!! Thank you. * If it's not that that shirt, it's similar.

[@MomontheSpectrum]

Haha thanks 😊 I filmed several videos in one day and didn’t want to change 🙃

[@biaberg3448]

I hardly ever notice what people are wearing, as long as they’re not completely naked.

[@galespressos]

Worst: EF (Executive Functioning especially when burnt out or overwhelmed) & DA (PDA) & Sensory Issues (having to get off subway/metro multiple times mid commute due to smells/chemicals or energies . Actually all but least were 4&6. Have intense emotions but usually have been analyzing situations so ling that have some knowledge of the trigger(s)

[@jsomeone9226]

So I'm clearly neurodivergent in some sense, but I just can't find one that fits The only one that fit a little was the a lot of alone time and the one that fit a lot was infodumping But stimulants stimulate me, which is the opposite of ADHD. So while everyone can agree there's something neurospicy about me, no one knows what it js

[@mariezguitar5029]

I could be wrong and others might chime in, I believe info dumping is more commonly an autistic trait, often on a specific topic. Many, but not all, people with a neurodivergent brain qualify for more than one diagnosis. Some people can be autistic and have ADHD, or OCD. Also, because there are multiple criteria, some traits can be more prevalent than others. This would be why some things might resonate strongly while others don’t.

[@nikn7653]

Crossed off all 12 of them even the additional mentions.

[@laurenjohnson5880]

I like changing "demand avoidance" to "desire for autonomy," seems like it's more likely to be understood by others if you describe it that way.

[@heatherrhodes1703]

All of these. Every single one 🫤

[@suzyh74]

Thanks, a very good explanation. I probably identify with most of them to a greater or lesser extent. However, I do have a question. Although these obviously all apply to Autism, to what extent do they apply to other neuro divergent conditions like ADHD and dyslexia?

[@anevarez]

Great video and very relatable! I put the ‘Alex’ in Alexithymia 😅

[@MomontheSpectrum]

haha nice one 😆

[@T1MB05L1C3]

I was mildly amused by this joke

[@REBEKAHJOHNSON-lh6xh]

I have ALL of these!! Sheesh. I’ve been musically interested since I was a toddler.

[@fleurdixoncoote]

As well as most of the things on this list, I have this thing where I can’t do things or go places that I really want to do/go…. Especially social stuff. It comes to the day of the event and I feel paralysed to stay home. What is that??

[@ladyamalthea85]

I mean, same though. So relatable.

[@lynnlikewhoa]

Taylor!! I just found out you're speaking at my work on April 17th!! They took my advice in suggesting speakers and I'm so excited!!

[@MomontheSpectrum]

That is awesome! 👏 yay thanks for suggesting me! I’m looking forward to it.

[@lynnlikewhoa]

@@MomontheSpectrum thank you so much for the amazing talk ❤️ just wanted to let you know -- after the meeting, my supervisor let me know she is advocating for further education on neurodivergence among all leadership, starting with having them view the recording of your talk. I'm just super grateful, both for you talking with us and for having such a respectful and receptive workplace.

[@elainehiggins713]

My supervisor criticized the way I shut down my computer and I got so upset I took an overdose of anti anxiety meds and ended up in the hospital (the kind where they lock you in). Not good.

[@gardenlove7750]

My brain runs at 10x my ability to output constructs via my mouth or fingers.

[@chrismaxwell1624]

For me PDA is about how many spoons I have. If I don't have the spoons I'm literally unable to the demand be that a demand from other or of myself. This looks like demand avoidance and feels like it but really I come realize if I conserve my energy I can respond to demands. Before I was more aware of energy(spoons) I'd avoid a demand on myself to work out for example and it felt like it was something I had no control over till I started conserving my energy.

[@wingedwheelerth3107]

This checked most of my boxes.

[@thomaswaffle5121]

You said tapping avd that's exactly what I was doing because I read the ingredients of two brands of drinking water. It's toxic water

[@stevefrench3564]

Can relate to everyone..

[@OpenWorldAddict0]

I don't think i am autistic, but i have discovered in the last month due to channels like yours and others that I am Neurodivergent. Let's see how many I can associate with: 1. Sensory Differences (which i called Sensory Sensitivities), absolutely. 2. Executive Function challenge, yup. 3. Hyperfocus on special interests, indeed 4. Intense emotional experiences, I don't know. However, I do suffer from being emotionally disregulated at times, is that the same? 5. Need a lot of of alone time to recharge. I don't think so, unless I am mentally and/or emotionally burnt out, however, I am very extroverted, so I don't really see that in myself. Spending lots of time alone without connection with other people makes me feel really, really tired. 6. Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria. I don't know, maybe... sometimes... i guess it depends on how stable my emotional regulation is at time. If I am already disregulated, then most likely, but otherwise... i don't know. 7. Demand Avoidance: I do think I suffer from demand avoidance at times, it depends on how hyperfocused I am at the time with my activity, and it also depends on my emotional and mental stability. If I am already disregulated, then 100 percent true. 8. Prefrence for Routine, Structure and Organization. Maybe? I think I most likely would function better if I have those, but some times maintaining those (especially by myself) can be a big struggle. (I think that has to do with one of my executive functioning challenges. 9. Covert Stims. Absolutely. A lot more than I realized. 10. Delayed Processing. Well then... That is entirely my whole disability identity, which I called cognitive processing dysfunction, which means my brain process the world more slowly then others, a disability that was caused by a stroke when I was an infant. Every other condition that I think I suffer from stems from that one thing. So there no doubt in my mind that I have delayed processing. This was interesting, and I thank you for doing this. Another step on the road to discovering the truth of my neurodivergence.

[@OpenWorldAddict0]

Now that i am thinking about it more and not just 'reacting', it would be nice for some more 'resoruces' for people like me that just discovered neurodiversity, just realized that they are (or mostly like is) neurodivegent; and are seeking answers about what it can mean for them, their experiences, and how this new knowledge might improve their life.

[@mariezguitar5029]

@OpenWorldAddict0 - check out resources geared to both autism and ADHD. Both diagnoses share certain traits and not others. And as expressed on this channel and others, each person is an individual, so what aspects affect one person with autism or ADHD might not affect you as strongly. Both autism and ADHD have executive functioning challenges. It depends on how you best take in information. I like a combination of KZbin videos and am subscribed to several channels; I also like books. It’s important to have sources like this channel of lived experience and also of psychologists/ psychiatrists (preferably with a diagnosis and therefore, with lived experience). As you come to understand your unique challenges, finding tools, strategies and work arounds are helpful. Accommodations in the workplace can make a huge difference.

[@noneofurbusiness5223]

All are true for me. I'm Dx w/ADHD. My daughter (30+ yo) has also been Dx w/being on spectrum. I've been articulate with naming my emotions (& motivations.)

[@lucinevertanes9564]

I have a great need for autonomy at work and it is currently making me so physically ill that I will eventually have to leave my job or I'll become too sick to function. I also have demand avoidance but the truth is, it's more about me wanting to do things the way I want to than being asked to do them.

[@martinalemmerhofer6937]

I can relate, I react strongly when I am told you do something I am already in the process to start doing.

[@1vtmom966]

OMG! I'm SO glad you said 'Acceptance' instead of awareness!! @1:57 Thank you! Yes! Such a great video, so glad I subscribed and I'm sharing this! ❤

[@Mushroom321-]

I love the phrase " may have trouble with big emotional experience" . !!!😲👏🏼👏🏼 " we may experience putting a word to a feeling . " relateable !! However am doing better !!

[@tdsollog]

Yes to all of these!

[@passaggioalivello]

Hi Tay, perfect score, 10 on 10.

[@kensears5099]

Excellently done.

[@MomontheSpectrum]

Thanks!

[@cammie49]

I honestly thought I was the only person in the world who did this! I go over and over words and expressions…and finally realize what they mean hour or even days later!! Then I feel insulted or furious or humiliated but it takes even longer to figure out a specific word like that for what I feel.

[@roberttravers7587]

Great video! yea all of them to some extent 😁

[@susaville]

I thought i was just an INFJ, but I'm starting to realize it's alot more.. so many things seem to overlap. Definitely going to dig further.

[@IndianCreekMonk]

I love this video. So helpful and it resonates with my experiences as a neurodivergent person on the ASD spectrum, especially 'needing alone time to recharge, demand avoidance, and rejection sensitive dysphoria.' Thank you

[@MomontheSpectrum]

You’re welcome. 🙏🏼 thanks for your comment.

[@minisassquatch]

For me several resonated - structure/routine, some executive function tasks, needing alot of time to recover and possibly stimming. Not sure about demand avoidance - I really hate being told what to do but need to research more about what this is. I've only recently made the discovery that I'm ND and it's been freeing to know that I'm not clumsy or dumb or weird. This was a nice sum up video :) Thanks.

[@gotozerobassman]

Thank you.

[@AliceLytle]

I am hypersensitive to sounds, smells, touch. Struggle with executive functioning. Regulating emotions problems. Need alone time. People talking too much (in person, the radio, the TV), can make me feel sick. Rejection sensitive dysphoria badly. Definitely demand avoidance! Stemming constantly!! I’ve said for years that I had a “delayed reaction “.

[@lydsa9662]

Yes Yes Yes! Thank you for this!

[@pamelacormier2171]

Taylor you have no idea how THANKFUL for your videos I am. I was searching because I thought my son may be autistic. Yet I totally SEE myself in sooooooo many of your descriptions/traits/stemming/hyper sensitivity! Oh my goodness I am so entrenched!

[@EricAllenGriff]

All the above at memorable early life moments.. Many. Moments that have made me who i am today.

[@dickottel]

Hypersensitivity is such a terrible thing to live with. I immediately hated my cousins who tickled me as a baby, because it was literal torture for me. Absolutely nothing compares to that, no pain I've ever experienced. And I was showing that, I was screaming and crying. They just looked at me like some alien and didn't care. I never forgave them. The smell of cigarettes is another nightmare in my life. Why do people even do this, it's poison and it's so disgusting and expensive. I do everything to avoid smokers, I will slow down to increase the distance between us, I might go a different way...

[@KittehNow]

Fantastic, informative...SPOT ON!!!!!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@jazzygemtarot]

I’m really stressed bc I went to my evaluation today just to be told it’s probably just anxiety and depression and I felt so ignored. Saying that I avoid social interactions because I’m anxious not because I’m not uninterested. Also say that I’m extremely hyper aware of my self and others there for autism is unlikely

[@noneofurbusiness5223]

Thanks for being so succinct 😊

[@stefanienapolitan8850]

Hi Taylor. Thanks for your channel. A coloring friend from the Adult Coloring channel let me know about your channel. I am 60 years 0:15 a relief because it explains a lot of behaviors I have and how I have been misunderstood pretty much my entire life. I have been a teacher for the last 18 years, and have worked with a number of autistic students. I tend to intuitively be able to relate to and help these students, and I think it is because I am autistic too. I look forward to watching your channel and learning more about how to navigate life. I have always been my worst critic, have found rejection to be a crushing blow, and I have super sensitive hearing that makes loud noises unbearable. I could go on and on. Thanks again.❤

[@jillthetree9173]

sensory overload for sure. I feel ridiculous telling people that "it's too sunny for me to go do stuff". Light, sound, smells ... it's all too much. I need advice on how to communicate to my dentist. I don't think he understands how intense even a teeth cleaning can be

[@pixydncer1]

I think I resonate with about seven items on this list. I’ve been wondering lately if I might be on the spectrum and your videos have been so informative. Thank you!

[@rachelh-j5006]

Thank you again for such a wonderful video! It is the stimming that really resonates with me (along with all the others). But there's a reason why stimming keeps resonating, because as I'm watching this video, I literally have a finger to my lips, just softly pressing and pressing --->

[@cynthiabohli-nelson1824]

The only one that doesn't apply to me is hyperfocusing on a special interest. I tend to hop from one interest to another. The rest have definitely applied to me

[@mariezguitar5029]

Similar. In some respects I wonder if someone is AuDHD, with ADHD being the more prominent “trait” 🤷🏼, if it would override the autistic side? I didn’t qualify based on that one aspect of autism but it resonates so strongly otherwise.

[@cynthiabohli-nelson1824]

@@mariezguitar5029 That is something I want to look into. Both my adult kids have ADHD, so the posibility is there.

[@jenniferglapan]

Major Delayed processing. It's weird but knowing it is a little bit helpful.

[@deadandblue]

Well hearing this from me I tend to interact more with some people who aren't autistic like me and I mask so much which has been easy for me to do. Typing error I am autistic and interact with non autistic adults

[@turtleanton6539]

Yes🎉

[@user-js5et3gc8q]

All of the traits you mentioned totally resonate with me.great video Taylor.I just wish I could have watched it like 50 or 60 years ago but better late than never right?

[@MomontheSpectrum]

Absolutely. Today is a great day to create a better life for yourself!

[@courtneyjackson4843]

Almost all of these resonate with me except a need for routine and structure. I have two children with autism and I have asked a therapist if I could be on the spectrum but she didn't think so. I think what I want to Do is learn how to manage the sensory stuff because I do have severe problems with that. I really appreciate your videos if only to learn and be more understanding - especially our children.

[@CrojoJojo]

I get very upset very easily usually because I feel slighted by someone and I may cry for two days before I start feeling normal again. I'm not sure about emotion identification but I do know that I used to think I never got angry or had any negative feelings except towards myself , because I think I learned that that was unexceptable. I called all feelings "upset "

[@hilariaperez1]

Demand Avoidance - this is why I give my students 2 options in class. But even then those options are not going to work that day. But I am unfortunately, glad to see that even adults recognize that they may have trouble with DA and are finding ways to help those around themselves which helps those around them. 😀

[@AgnesBalla9602]

I resonate will all of them 😅

[@CrojoJojo]

I definitely hyperfocus. I get on a topic and can't think of anything else. I even wake in the night and start reading about it cause I can't wait till morning.

[@aurian-lay]

These are autistic traits and really great information, but there are many other neurodivergent traits that right up there too. My personal main three are Aphantasia, SDAM, and Anauralia.

[@Mom4cool]

Goog video. I appreciate it. Autistic inertia is a topic I would like to hear more about.

[@Lady_Elizabeth_Brenner]

I am hypersensitive to sound, but hyposensitive to pain. But light touch is still annoying. I like pressure. I will hyperfocus on things, and I've been a data sponge my whole life, focusing on something until I know everything there is to know about it, and then moving on to the next thing. My brothers call me Google because if they need some random fact, I probably know it. I am a huge infodumper, and I don't really know when it's TMI. I often can't put emotions into words, even after I took a class on human emotions. If what I'm feeling doesn't meet every single criterion for a particular emotion, I just don't express it. I'm actually an extrovert (ENFP), but I need a lot of alone time too, and I'm a grouch if I don't get it. RSD is something I experience from time to time, and then I hate myself and feel uncomfortable in my own skin simply from a little criticism. I get so mad about being told what to do. Or getting help. It makes me feel like I have no control, and I just want to be more independent. If I was going to do the thing already, and then someone tells me to do it, I no longer want to do it. I like routine, but unfortunately, my family can't get on a schedule, which means I just find it where I can. I scrunch my toes in my shoes, use little 3D printed fidget toys, and mess with my hair a lot. It takes me a long time to process things, especially if those things involve strong, complex emotions. And yet my mom still thinks I'm "normal."

[@sake343]

For me, my alexithymia is where I literally am 100% unaware of certain emotions. I don't know all/unable to label all of my emotions. However, some I literally don't feel at all (disconnected). Some I just have... sensations in my body but not much else. Some I feel normally.

[@CrojoJojo]

Stimming something i never realized i did. I remembering kicking my crossed leg in class nonstop til people started getting annoyed then i couldn't pay attention to class cause I was trying so hard not to let .y leg kick. I used to walk with my thumbs squeezed hard in my hand and I didn't know why but I couldn't seem to stop. I twirled my hair and the list goes on, but now i mostly tighten muscles till they hurt enough to make me aware.