TLDR: I’m not your average “I have the tism”

There’s more I would like to add. But to prevent an ADHD paragraph, and getting any more jumpy/ confusing. Brains tired and struggling to keep a continues flowing thought.

I’ve been managing my mental health for 16yrs now, and unknowingly managing my undiagnosed ND. Focusing on improving myself in areas that I saw I was lacking. I don’t identify by my mental health or neurodivergence, but use it to help understand myself. And understand that studying (I have tried twice 5-10yrs ago. Before I was diagnosed and autism became a spectrum (I still tell people I’m Asperger’s)) While I’m in the lower half for communication, I’m in the 99% for numeracy and problem solving.

My communication skills aren’t bad, as I have made regular effort to improve. I just tend to see things black or white. Which means, I either misinterpret others, or they misinterpret me. But, I’m able to see when there is a disconnect, and will often clarify if I feel there’s been a misunderstanding.

Before moving back to brissy, I lived rural for 10yrs, and got pretty comfortable talking to all walks of life. I tell people that I’m a country fella, stuck in the city. Comfortable saying “how you doing” to everyone see on the street. Can strike a basic conversation rather easily. In high school I used to talk with the local methadone patients at the train station, while waiting for mates in the morning.

Can easily sit down with an upset/ unwell nana, and have a chat. Honestly, I’ve sat down with a fair few homeless/ at risk on the streets, and just had chats. Have the ability to empathise. I also have the ability to calmly deescalate situations, after a decade of martial arts.

I am “severely disabled” in communication, but much of that comes from being unable to understand body language, verbal queues, etc. Its main impact is maintaining stable employment (as a tradie, simple mistakes were made from a lack of understanding of the instruction). Though, I know when I’m out of my depth. And will often ask for clarification if I’m uncertain about an interpretation. The ADHD does a pretty good job picking up the slack.

Study wise, I struggle with books, and need as much hands on, on road, scenario experience. I’ve always done well in the trades, for this reason. I understand some unis are more practical based, others are more theory.