Oneika (Age 41, She/Her)

My favorite thing about how my mind works is its constant "can-do attitude" for picking up new hobbies! Whether it's figuring out how to create a pattern for knitting or crocheting, to hearing about a new scientific study that causes me to deep dive into the topic, I'm always on the hunt to stimulate my mind! Sometimes, I'll even sit back and watch other people do their special interests, even if I don't hyperfixate on it myself, because it allows me to learn about something new. I enjoy collecting rocks that are unique to their region, polished stones that highlight their unique patterns, anything with yarn, playing video games, tabletop games, and drawing/coloring.

When I was still in grade school, I was often called eccentric, gifted, and strong-willed, but never autistic. I often floated around between groups of friends because I never really felt like I belonged to one specific group. As I got older, I learned when I could drop my mask, be myself, and recharge. The older I got, though, I hit an inevitable burnout wall. It took time and support to work on myself to find a way to decompress when it happens. Once I was diagnosed with AuDHD at 38, everything became easier. Now that I understand myself better, my husband and I can help our children learn skills that we had to figure out by ourselves so they can navigate what works for them.