Explaining your autism

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Something has been troubling me a little, particularly as I only received my diagnosis last November. I have come across a few occasions when I've been asked how my AS affects me and actually it's something I perhaps naturally really struggle to explain, especially I think, when I endeavour to manage issues as best I can and the struggle and difficulty appears 'hidden' to those around me. I realise we're all unique but I wondered if anyone had any advice/tips on how they manage this?

It is difficult. They'll keep asking what exactly it is that makes things difficult, but it all comes down to that single word. They'd totally understand it if they experienced it for themselves. Also it affects pretty much everything in your life so you can't just give a simple answer like that.

I guess you can tell them to do research into the subject, though that's probably rude.

This might sound like a strange tactic, but my counsellor suggested it to me, and I've now tried it a couple of time quite effectively.

Ask the other person what they think autism is - then use what they say to prompt you to either confirm or challenge what they say.

If you try to explain straight off, you will have no idea what misconceptions about autism the other person has - so even if you describe yourself well, people are inclined to combine it with the false information they already believe, and they'll draw all the wrong conclusions - they might even end up misunderstanding you more rather than less.

Secondly, it gives you some prompts about what the person really needs to know. I generally only reveal as much as I absolutely have to - if nothing else, a full explanation of autism is too time-consuming. By asking about the other person's concerns, you will be able to target exactly the information that they need to hear, and you're less likely to find yourself stuck for words.

I think Troggs has hit on a great idea!

Once a person explains what HE/SHE thinks autism is, you can be the one to set them straight.

The person "explaining" autism will invariably get it wrong.

(but don't criticize....teach instead).

This appeals to my strengths as a "counterpuncher." I'm much better when I'm a situation where I'm asked questions, rather than a situation where I have to initiate things.

Well, as I say, I can't take credit for the idea - I'll thank my counsellor next time I see her - but it really does seem to work in practice.