Neurodivergence

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All things neurodivergent and relating to the broader neurodivergent community (and communities).

See also this community's sister subs Feminism, LGBTQ+, Disability, and POC

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How the %π$@!? do I make good friends when it feels like everyone around me are those cactuses that look super soft and cuddly but actually will stab you if approached (self.neurodivergence)

submitted 1 year ago by Lowbird to c/neurodivergence

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It just feels exhausting and hopeless lately and I'm afraid I'll just end up being lonely forever.

/vent over, thank you, carry on. Please don't absorb my upset into your own heart.

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[–] Melody@lemmy.one 11 points 1 year ago

The only advice I can give is to ask yourself regularly if the people you are hanging around "suck". Pay attention when being around a person drains your social battery more than normal, or when that person can't seem to find common ground with you.

Surround yourself with people who support you, but don't let people who get you down remain around you.

You may need to explain that you have some version of neurodiversity to new friends (Please, substitute "some version of neurodiversity" with necessary information about yourself that you feel comfortable in sharing) and that you have a limited social battery. Assure them it's probably nothing personal; you just need to recharge. Explain that certain things or situations may drain your energy faster; or overwhelm you into having anxieties. Quickly cut out anyone who appears to be taking advantage of that.

Most importantly, be with people who have the same interests as you do. That breaks down more barriers than most things.