Søren (Age 33, They/Them)

Growing up as an undiagnosed Autistic child, I always felt far away and different somehow- like everyone else had some secret manual for how to be a person that I missed out on. I was a voracious reader (and still am to this day), and always felt more at home in books or movies than reality. I struggled socially and had delays with motor skills, as well as difficulties regulating my sensory experiences and my emotions. 

Looking back, there are clearly other autistics in my family, which may have been why my struggles were missed. I did well academically and hid the social difficulties I encountered.

As an autistic adult with a much deeper understanding of the way my brain works, I see my autism differently now. My deep dives into my special interests bring me great joy, and I have found beautiful friendships with other neurodiverse people. Autism is beautiful in my life because of the rich depth of experiences it offers me. I feel and experience everything so deeply- every emotion is full, every sensory experience powerful. I may still struggle in some ways, but being able to name that struggle and find effective tools has been life-changing.