People have so many ideas about what autism is supposed to feel like. They think it’s either a constant struggle or some kind of magical superpower. The truth? It’s both, and neither.
For example, some people think being autistic means I’m always overwhelmed. That’s true sometimes. But they don’t see the quiet moments, the times when I sit on my couch with my favorite weighted blanket and feel completely at ease.
Then there’s the “autistic savant” myth. You know, the one where we’re all supposed to be math geniuses or musical prodigies. I’m great with patterns and pretty good at noticing details, but I can’t do calculus to save my life. My brain works differently—that doesn’t mean it works better or worse.
And let’s not forget the most damaging myth of all: that autism is something to be “fixed.” Autism isn’t a disease or a defect; it’s a way of being. If I woke up tomorrow without it, I wouldn’t be me.
What I Wish People Knew
When I say “this is what autism feels like,” I’m not speaking for everyone. Autism is a spectrum, and my experience is just one point on it. Some people might relate to the static, the silence, or the fireworks, while others have completely different metaphors. That’s the beauty—and the challenge—of autism: it’s not one thing.
But if there’s one thing I wish everyone understood, it’s this: being autistic means experiencing the world in high definition. Sometimes that’s overwhelming. Sometimes it’s breathtaking. Most of the time, it’s both.
Visual Snapshot
Right now, I’m sitting in my home office. The walls are painted a pale blue that feels calming, like a soft whisper. My desk is cluttered with sticky notes, an open notebook, and my favorite fidget toy—a smooth stone that fits perfectly in my hand.
Outside, rain taps gently on the window, a rhythmic pattern that soothes my frayed nerves. My cat is curled up on the chair next to me, her purring a low, comforting hum. It’s one of those rare moments when the static is quiet, the silence isn’t overwhelming, and the fireworks are just a memory waiting for their next cue.
FAQ
Q: Does autism feel the same for everyone?
A: Not at all. Autism is a spectrum, which means no two autistic people experience it the same way. What feels like static to me might feel completely different to someone else.
Q: Why do autistic people talk about sensory overload so much?
A: Because it’s a big part of our experience. Our brains process sensory input differently, which can make everyday environments overwhelming. Check out this guide from the Autism Society to learn more.
Q: Is autism always hard?
A: Not always. Like anything, it has ups and downs. The key is understanding and supporting autistic people so we can thrive in a world that isn’t always built for us.
Final Thoughts
Autism feels like static, silence, and fireworks—but mostly, it feels like me. It’s not something I carry; it’s part of who I am. Some days are harder than others, but every day is a chance to learn, to adapt, and to appreciate the world in my own way.
If you’re autistic, or if you love someone who is, I hope this gives you a glimpse of what it’s like. And if the static ever feels too loud, just know you’re not alone.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to sit by the window and watch the rain for a while. It’s one of those quiet moments where everything feels just right.
