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“We Are Not Alone”: 50 Spot-On Memes For The Neurodivergent Brain
Interview With Author
ADHD can be a wild ride. From forgetting where you left your keys (again) to finding yourself hyper-focused on a random hobby at 2 AM, life with this condition is anything but predictable. But sometimes, the best way to cope with the quirks and chaos is through humor.
The ‘ADHD Memes’ page on X has become a popular spot for neurodivergent folks looking for a good laugh about their daily struggles. We’ve scoured their posts and rounded up some of their funniest and most relatable memes below. Plus, don’t miss our chat with the page’s creator, Sidney, and psychologist Sabina Nazarova, who debunk common misconceptions about ADHD and provide helpful advice for managing its unique challenges.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
veryvenasaur 1 year ago
THIS!!!! seriously as a late diagnosed kid parents please please please get your kid diagnosed if you/teacher/doctor have suspicions.
TheElderNom 1 year ago
Diagnosed and the support and help they need. While a diagnosis is helpful, just leaving it at that or using it as an excuse is not helpful.
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D. Pitbull 1 year ago
Oh. my parents encouraged this train of thought. Like, they'd literally tell me that I'm struggling to do homework/get along with the 'cool kids' or whatever the heck it was - because I'm willfully being stupid to make their lives difficult, and I'm annoying, and oh, btw, mom would remind me how she never wanted me and wish she could return me. In short, they flat out don't believe any of this stuff is real. The irony - their beloved/golden nephew (my cousin) is a brain surgeon.
Sharkbait1313 1 year ago (edited)
I knew something was off with my daughter when she was 2. She couldnt look anyone in the eye, she would find any little piece of string in the house and put it in her mouth and slowly pull it back out over and over, line up the cans from the pantry on the floor, etc. Her dr. agreed and referred her to a neurologist. My husband and Dad kept saying no need, that she would grow out of it. Well screw that, we went, and the neurologist who has practiced for over 30 years recognized it immediately after walking in. I was referred to a center that provided free services including a special preschool and everyday in home ABA therapy which started by teaching her to look people in the eye, taught us sign language, and later even helped me potty train her. At 16 she still has her quirks, but don't we all. She attends a regular high school with the help of an amazing aid and even sings in the choir which melts my heart every time i watch her. She claps and gives a thumbs up after every song. The other students just love her and are so good with her. So glad I didn't listen to others and got her the resources she needed!
Tara Noe 1 year ago (edited)
A diagnosis didn't help me at all. Instead of me THINKING I'm problematic or annoying, I know WHY I'm problematic and annoying and know I can't fix it
BoredPangolin 1 year ago
Er, the diagnosis is supposed to guide you toward therapy. A diagnosis alone won't change your life. Help will.
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Virgil Blue 1 year ago
All of the this right here. Trough no fault of my parents I got the diagnosis as an adult and am currently working to bend my mind d back into shape to get rid of all of those negative feelings.
Harry Muchera 5 months ago
Is it working?, and if so,how are you doing it
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hwatinternation 1 year ago
I didn't get a diagnosis for anything until I was an adult. Every adult around me failed to raise any red flags (but it doesn't mean they failed at doing their jobs, just means I slipped through the crack).
Marnie 1 year ago
I was diagnosed as autistic about 5 or 6 years ago around age 50. It took another two years, but for the first time since my teen years, I stopped feeling anywhere from mildly suicidal to making plans. (There were a couple of lulls in there, but it was nearly all the time.) And now I wouldn't even call myself depressed. Well, with politics in the US lately, I am once again depressed, but I can cope and it's not severe. My sister started saying she thought I was autistic over 20 years ago. I should have listened. Now, my next goal is to have a female friend. Haven't had one since 1999!
RELATED:
#2
Boredhedgehog 1 year ago
My flat is a disaster zone because of exactly this! I have never been tested, but after working with autistic kids at my aunt's daycare I researched autism and recognised so many of the symptoms. I consider getting tested, but then the above happens!
Person 1 year ago
FED UP with the pop up ads I can't enjoy 5 minutes on this site without them blocking the whole screen and holding me hostage for 15 seconds!!!!!!!!!!!
m0@nlight 1 year ago
Use browser Duck Duck Go, it's what I'm using and I've never seen the ads you're talking about. ;-)
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Magenta Blu 1 year ago (edited)
This is my daily life. And then when I achieve to stand up and painfully finish any task, it doesn't make me feel better but even worse because I'm so exhausted and nothing had changed
Puck 1 year ago
Every morning for the last week i can't start. I know why: i have adhd and because it's a holliday (teacher) my routines are off..... i also know what to do about it: make a schedule. Last week went well, but this week..... I do get started in the afternoons and do things i wanted to do around the house, bur boy do i feel incompetent about the mornings.....
According to the World Health Organization, ADHD affects about 5% of children and 2.5% of adults, impacting millions of people across the globe. To find out more about what it’s like to live with this condition, Bored Panda got in touch with Sidney, the creator of ‘ADHD Memes.’
“It was a long, winding road to understand why my brain works the way it does,” Sidney shares. He was inspired to set up the meme account after being diagnosed with AuDHD—a combination of autism and ADHD—later in life. (Recent research estimates that 50% to 70% of autistic individuals also have ADHD.)
“Memes became a way for me to process this experience by breaking down complex feelings into digestible, relatable humor,” he says. “I quickly realized that what resonated with me was also striking a chord with others. The page became a space where we could laugh at our struggles, find community, and, most importantly, spread awareness.”
#3
Maisey Myles 1 year ago
And when I slap the s**t out of you, it’s all in the wrist
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Azrael 1 year ago (edited)
Y’all only have one goblin? I have like, 50 and they’re all called Dave.
Lady of Shalott 1 year ago
I have a coworker with dozens of fish and they're all called Dave except one who is Jonathan. (She can't tell them apart though.)
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SkippityBoppityBoo 1 year ago
Omg! This one is hilarious!!! "It's all in your head"... Where else would it be? 😄😄😄
Winter Eleven 1 year ago
It's funny when my ex friend said the antidepressants were just a crutch... Like what do you do when your leg is broken? Not use crutches? Jump on the other one? Not to mention diabetes-oh, insulin is actually needed while ... She graduated in biochemistry.
Madeleine Baker 1 year ago
this reminds me of the meme "I don't have ducks, they are not in a row. I have squirrels and they are at a rave" - describes my ADHD perfectly
#4
Pittsburgh rare 1 year ago
See: never look for subtext when communicating. That's useful for both neurodivergent and neurotypicals. Makes your life x100 times less stressful.
D. Pitbull 1 year ago
Yeah... been going with that for years. People hate it when you expect them to communicate (because it usually uncovers/reveals that they're responsible for themselves, and they want to be blameless for everything).
Christina Hvurchilova 1 year ago
Indeed and it goes both ways. If I'm angry, sad, or unsure about something I inform people. They don't appreciate it but it's how I feel most comfortable communicating.
Wondering Alice 1 year ago
As a neurodivergent person, school was by far the most confusing time. Teachers would be very clear that they were upset with me, but expected me to work out why. Part of my job is teaching emotional literacy, and a lot of the kids that come my way are ND. With older teens, I let them pick targets. This past year, I ended up with quite a few trying to understand the clues others give (especially teachers). Unfortunate truth is, if others do not communicate their feelings well, it is still us who are making most of the effort. I don't really object to the fact I have to work out my co workers all the time, while they make zero effort to help me. I do however find it objectionable that grown adult teachers are still putting children through this. It's exhausting.
MissCris 1 year ago
Hello, Alice. I'm interested in what you do with targets and teenagers. Are theytargets with an emotion name? How do you use them? Could you develop it? I'd use it with my pupils, too, if I can. :)
Load More Replies... Anne Home 1 year ago
But... it was alway my job to guess. Parental units never gave clear messages but demanded I knew what they ment anyway.
Paulina 1 year ago
Same. Coming from dysfunctional family on top of neurodivergence is a final boss level hard.
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Robert Beveridge 1 year ago
But, well, I don't want to communicate with them anyway most of the time so
Ellinor 1 year ago
When I start being friends with people I warn them I might be talking too much and that I can't notice/understand the face markers that indicate someone is pissed or annoyed, so if they feel they are ready to talk about problems and warn me in time instead of letting them grow, then we can be friend or else it would be wasting their time and mine. All the people I meet say they are okay (so it should be good right ?). Now in my whole life I had never kept friends over a year, and I have no friends today because they all kept silent and waited instead of communicating. (When I say I have no friends it's not a metaphor to say I have a few. The only people I talk to are my mother, grandparents, and people on the internet.)
Geoffrey Scott 1 year ago
THIS! I am not a mind reader Angie. If you need a task done...TELL ME! Don't expect me to figure out what you need.
With over 93K followers, Sidney’s page has become a refuge for the neurodivergent community. The feedback has been overwhelming, he says. “I get at least two DMs a day from people sharing that my memes were the catalyst for them to seek a diagnosis. They tell me that seeing their experiences mirrored back at them in a humorous, non-judgmental way gave them the push to get tested and start treatment. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that something as simple as a meme can have that kind of impact.”
#5
Susie Elle 1 year ago
My mom was like this. If she had an appointment at 4 in the afternoon, her WHOLE day was ruined because she couldn't do anything until after that appointment was over. For years I thought I had the same issue, turns out I just absorbed it from her lmao (thought I still prefer having my appointments early on so it's over and done with)
Mark Grant 1 year ago
My son leaves for college in 4 days. I've been waiting for two weeks. I go to work, I come home, I wait. I go to bed, I get up, I go to work, I come home, and I wait... been this way for many many years. Thought it was just me...
Load More Replies... Nitka Tsar 1 year ago
Wait… isn‘t it normal to feel/ think one can‘t start anything because of an appointment in the early afternoon?
D. Pitbull 1 year ago
Well. yeah... 'cuz... the thing happening at 2:45, your brain has labelled as a "very important thing" (rightfully so) - so... you know yourself and you know/feel/have anxiety over something happening to make you late (which does happen, and not infrequently) - so you kinda just... stop everything 'important' to minimize possibly having everything go sideways, making you miss the important thing.
kath morgan 1 year ago
Well the other day I made the mistake of playing with my cat during the waiting period and completely forgot I was supposed to go out.
beryl_m_green 1 year ago
My brain does the same! Every weekend my friend collects me for shopping at 11:30. Every weekend, instead of doing all the chores my head knows need to be done early in the day, I'm sitting in my chair waiting for him to arrive for shopping.
featherytoad 1 year ago (edited)
I am a morning person. I like to get everything done by 12pm and then have the rest of the day to just relaxe. I hate late appointments simply for the fact that it f***s with my normal routine. It makes everything weird for the whole day and night. Even late appoitments that come to my house, I hate.
Ashlie Benson 1 year ago
I love coming out here and discovering people who have the same issues I do. It really makes you feel more "normal".
#6
D. Pitbull 1 year ago
Which is why I say "That's how I can best explain it. Am I making sense at all?" - because.. unfortunately... maaaany... manager/bosses tend to use "Does that make sense" in a very condescending context... so now the rest of us who know we sound all Jabberwocky at least 50% of the time have to find an alternate 'way to say it'.
brittany 1 year ago
i say "does that sound weird?" so people know it's not them, its me.
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digitalin 1 year ago
I tried out a therapist once who said she focused on ADHD. I said " if that makes sense" so many times that she got frustrated with me for not just assuming she was following. I felt so awkward with her that I cried afterwards for failing at therapy. Needless to say, I did not go back. If that makes any sense.
D. Pitbull 1 year ago
I'm so sorry this was how the experience turned out. You did NOT FAIL. They failed you. The whole POINT of being a therapist, especially one focused on ADHD is to help guide you with how to cope/adjust with your so called 'quirks' so that you can improve your quality of life, not to get mad that you're doing exactly the right thing, and in fact, are able to readily demonstrate the behaviour (in this case, a nearly reflexive verbal phrase used to try communicating that's not working for you) I mean... did you... attack her? No. Did you... blame the therapist for your behaviours? No. Did try NOT explaining and/or tried to 'show' her that you knew more than her (ie: the whole attitude of "You're wrong because I know more than any stupid doctor")? No. Then she was not doing the basics of her job. I will say (as little as it may mean) that you did exactly the best/right thing by seeking help from a source who is (supposed to be) an expert.
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Mark Fuller 1 year ago
I say that a lot and always worry that I'm insulting them. No... I promise its because I'm not even sure I understand what I've just said or typed, so if you do... kudos!
#7
Corinna Weisz 1 year ago
I won't start a task, if I feel it will be a failure. Though it could turn out good (And be honest, in 90% will) I always called it 'wrong perfectionist' 😕
The growing awareness of neurodivergent conditions has made them a big topic of discussion online. Unfortunately, they’re also often the subject of jokes by people who don’t fully understand them. To get a better perspective, Bored Panda spoke with psychologist Sabina Nazarova.
“ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how people think, focus, and control their impulses,” Nazarova explains. “It’s commonly discussed in terms of two main types: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Some people may struggle more with focusing and staying organized, while others may be more hyperactive or impulsive. Many experience a combination of both.”
#8
Nat Rich 1 year ago
And usually the person talking changes the subject before you realise you are able to interject so if by some miracle you do remember your point it now doesn't make any sense to the convo and is burned into your brain for eternity.
LonelyLittleLeafSheep 1 year ago
But if you try to contribute to the conversation you're accused of interrupting. 🙄
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Lilybdcsa 1 year ago
I do this! I am constantly thinking that I'm being rude and I have to keep myself from blurting things out or I'll forget. Or maybe it's not important enough to bring up in the first place and everyone is better off if I keep my bloody mouth shut. But then I think my point is correct and I must share it.
#9
Nat Rich 1 year ago
This is why I'm fat. Because i leave the best til last and by the time get there I know I'm full up but i cannot leave the best thing!
Cydney Golden 1 year ago
Put less on your plate. If you're eating out, get a take away container as soon as you get your food. Put 2/3s of it in the container. Enjoy the rest. Have more meals at home.
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Sinnsyk Jakte 1 year ago
As a result of a greedy not-gran'ma taking things off my plate 'cause I "wasn't eating it." combined with this... I got stabby at mealtimes, and I still feel anxious and aggressive when people reach toward my precious Best Bite.
highwaycrossingfrog 1 year ago
Neurotypical here but from when I was a kid till when I was probably well into my twenties, I would eat all of one thing first, then proceed through each thing on my plate in the order from least to most favourite (typically all the veggies then all the potatoes then all the meat). Now, like everyone else in my family, I just save my favourite for one final mouthful (but my final mouthfuls will still go from least to most favourite).
Doodles1983 1 year ago
Undiagnosed but identify with every single meme so hard. Add to this, I'm eating in order and saving either best taste or friendliest texture til last and my father in law drops a covered-in-gravy roast potato onto my plate. Because he knows I love a roastie. But doesn't know I loathe, loathe, loathe, loathe gravy. It has now contaminated the entire plate and I won't eat anymore but how do I explain it? When he was just being nice?
Jess Smith 1 year ago
Once I was eating paneer with this delicious sauce and naan and I didn't know what to eat first it was all delicious.
#10
Parmeisan 1 year ago
Also, as an adult you have more time to learn what triggers you, how much you can "safely" handle, how to relax/destress/stim, how to communicate your needs, etc. I am 40 and still learning things about myself and that gives me hope that it will only keep getting better and better.
Nazarova generally prefers using the terms neurodivergent and neurotypical instead of simply labeling ADHD. “I believe these terms better capture the diversity in how people’s brains work,” she says. “There are so many variations in brain function, and calling it ADHD doesn’t fully reflect that.”
Indeed, this condition is not as straightforward as some might think. It primarily affects the brain through differences in dopamine regulation, which impacts focus and motivation. Key areas like the prefrontal cortex, responsible for planning and impulse control, often show reduced activity. Additionally, ADHD can lead to delayed brain maturation, smaller brain volumes in certain regions, and communication issues between brain networks. These differences result in challenges with attention, impulse control, emotional regulation, and time management.
#11
Enuya 1 year ago
I literally just now got ready to take the shower and 15 minutes later found myself in the bathroom door reading this article.
DudeFortitude (He/Him) 1 year ago
I hope you're not in the bathroom door, that would hurt!!! /jk
Load More Replies... Sinnsyk Jakte 1 year ago
To be fair, Greenland is more interesting than anything after coffee.
Magenta Blu 1 year ago
Yeah.. I wanted coffee since 2 days ago and still could not manage to do it
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Niki A 1 year ago
By way of example, I was running water in the sink for dishes, and I realized I needed to run and water a plant in the bedroom, then I started to pick up my son's toys, then I decided I needed to dust. Meanwhile, the kitchen sink overflowed. I was at my boyfriend's house getting ready for our son's birthday party. So glad he wasn't home!!!
Load More Replies... Anke Dieken 1 year ago
I always tell myself that I'll stop reaading boredpanda because it is so time consuming... see how it goes...
#12
Geoffrey Scott 1 year ago
And the reason I am making a careless mistake is because I am focused on the next task in line.
BoredPangolin 1 year ago
And anyway the ADHD brain is used to fill gaps, so you wouldn't see your mistakes. I tell my kid to read their sentence backwards, or to read them as if it was somebody else who wrote it. It helps to manipulate your mindset to approach things differently, otherwise you can reread your own text 1000 times without realising it's missing a word.
Robert Beveridge 1 year ago
There's stuff I don't revise for twenty years. There's stuff I haven't revised after forty. Not because it doesn't need it but because exactly this.
LokisLilButterknife 1 year ago (edited)
Ufff, this hit too close to home. I’m usually seen as a model employee due to my work ethic, helpfulness and willingness to learn but then my ADHD is like “f**k you.” I spent the day crying and having a panic attack at work yesterday as I sent a translator the wrong document even though I could have sworn I sent them the right one. Then I realized that my idiocy had ruined the client’s timeline which caused me to sink into a horrible panic attack and downward spiral of how I suck life and can’t do anything right. Then I got bored and frustrated and went to YouTube. ADHD and anxiety f*****g suck at times. 🥲
Winter Eleven 1 year ago
I never checked my work. I see it as gambling and just send the professor the paper or essay (but do check the grammar through the program)
#13
Freya the Wanderer 1 year ago
Well, I just finished disputing a charge on my credit card, a charge that has been there nearly a month.
Due to stereotypes surrounding ADHD, many people don’t recognize that they’re experiencing its symptoms—fewer than 20% of adults with ADHD are even aware they have it, let alone that they should seek treatment.
“People often associate ADHD with attention issues, hyperactivity, and distractibility, but they often overlook the emotional toll it takes,” Nazarova says. “It’s not just about getting distracted; it’s about the intense struggle and frustration that comes with trying to focus, the overwhelming effort it takes to sit down and work on a project, and the feelings of inadequacy when it feels impossible. ADHD is more than just a challenge with attention—it’s a deeply felt experience.”
#14
D. Pitbull 1 year ago
Is this an ADHD thing? I was told/scold (a while ago - like, when I was still a non-adult) that that this was just being self-centered... "everything's not about you" or... "Why do I care about your story?" - so... now if what someone is saying reminds me of something that I can relate to (ie: something that helps me better understand their story) - I keep quiet, knowing that no one wants to know about me anyhow. If this compulsion is an ADHD thing... hm... well, that changes the PoV.
Jill Rhodry 1 year ago
Yep, sure can be an ADHD thing. I totally agree with @Fembot that it's empathy based and trying not to forget what you want to say - best tip I learnt, is not to go straight into your story, acknowledge and comment on theirs first so they feel heard
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Winter Eleven 1 year ago
My best friend and i both have adhd, we interject all the time so in the end we have ni Idea what we were talking about
Noname 1 year ago
Well, that is how my brain works ... especially on meetings I f I don't let people know what I wanna say about a particular topic, at the end of the conversation I will be completely clueless what my idea was :(
#15
Green Machine 1 year ago
Oh man. This needs to be higher. ..Actually, I'll print it and hang this up. So many people need to hear this.
Freya the Wanderer 1 year ago
Go ahead, take a nap when you need it. I usually set a timer just in case I fall asleep.
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 year ago
This so much again! The overwhelmed bit especially. It's okay to get overwhelmed. It's okay to put off for another day anything that can wait. I've had to say, explain to various companies or whoever that, if they've started getting rude? "You are not the only company/person that I've had to sort things out with today and phone to organise things. Which is why when you ask me 'Why did you wait until 2pm to call?' That's not helping me. I have been polite with you, explained it to you. I would appreciate the same in return."... And once it's sorted or organised? It's... Now I'm feeling a tad overwhelmed by it all so just watch TV or one of your favourite films... Time to envelop your petals, rest, put it all away and sleep to get ready for the brand new day...
Bunny Lady 1 year ago
I'm sat here now. Totally exhausted. Mindlessly scrolling my phone whilst my house looks like I've been burgled. I really needed to read this.
#16
Julie 1 year ago
Not me laughing hysterically and adding to previous favorite screenshots on this list.
Chicken Nugget 1 year ago
i have like 2000 cat images saved to my computer because i think i'll magically have time to spend 5 hours looking at them, but i never have the time :(
Sinnsyk Jakte 1 year ago (edited)
Y'all, don't forget that Bender's oculars have served as cameras before. So. Like. Do with that what you will.
Maisey Myles 1 year ago
80% of my photos are screen shots - I only look at them when I’m trying to find pix of my grandkids
Sidney agrees that living with ADHD or other mental challenges can be a tiring experience. “People often underestimate the mental exhaustion, the constant battle with executive dysfunction, or the anxiety that comes with trying to keep up in a world that isn’t designed for neurodivergent minds,” he says.
Nazarova adds that a common misconception about ADHD is that people with it are lazy or unmotivated because they have trouble getting things done. “ADHD is a neurological condition that affects focus and impulse control, and individuals often work hard to complete tasks despite their struggles,” she explains.
#17
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 year ago (edited)
I don't particularly like being touched unexpectedly or shaking hands. The shaking hands is probably because I was in hospital with Covid. It's a hangover from that. The being touched thing is? I like hugs from trusted people but please don't grab my arm or something when I'm crossing the street. Yes, I'm disabled but I'm disabled because of Domestic Violence. I know you mean well but you're throwing me off balance with my crutches and my automatic response is to pull away from your hand because you've just unexpectedly grabbed my arm which could cause me to fall over.
#18
DudeFortitude (He/Him) 1 year ago
Lucky. I got the whole bundle: depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism! 😅
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Magenta Blu 1 year ago (edited)
My damn brain knows infinite random useless facts about many things, but none of them useful for earning money or making me feel good. I'm stuck being completely mediocre in absolutely every damn thing
Jess Smith 1 year ago
Nuh-uh! Autism and ADHD makes a hyperfocusing special interest vortex of DOOOOOM!
OneWithRatsAndKefir 1 year ago
Oh, oh no. Maybe I really do have ADHD (waiting to get tested in February), not just ASD. I know so many random facts and none of them go together, like clear jigsaw pieces.
#19
Zephyr 1 year ago
Life be like "here's some anxiety to go with your discomfort, and a side of panic"
Winter Eleven 1 year ago
I do believe myself have a reason to be tired even with that list. I've been convinced since i hadn't done anything i cannot be tired
MissCris 1 year ago
This reminds me when K hear "go out from your confort zone", wait, is there a confort zone?
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Filip Ölrúnir 1 year ago
Not dealing with this will get you a serious physical health issues as "reminders" to solve it before it's too late. (Personal experience)
Another myth is the belief that people with ADHD can’t be successful, a view that was more common before social media began glamorizing the condition. “Many people with ADHD can and do achieve great success,” says Nazarova. “However, I strongly oppose this glamorization, as not being able to focus sometimes does not equate to having ADHD. Those with an ADHD diagnosis face significant challenges that go beyond occasional distractions.”
#20
D. Pitbull 1 year ago
I'm... not on the spectrum - and I tend to answer that question honestly if it's someone I want to go away (and it's not someone who can/will fire me for being 'insubordinate'). Yes, I actually HAVE been let go/mistreated at work for answering with things like "[Bad thing happened on the weekend], but just going forward and getting into the work routine, so it's getting better."
LonelyLittleLeafSheep 1 year ago
When I see someone I haven't seen for awhile and I ask "how have you been" I mean it. Tell me the truth so I can offer sympathy and support.
OneWithRatsAndKefir 1 year ago
Relatable - I’ve masked so hard that I usually reply with ‘good, how are you’, but there’s times I can’t lie when things have been terrible and just compromise with ‘…ehhh?’
Na Schi 1 year ago
As a German, when I first started to work am international job, I really quickly had to learn that "How are you doing" was just a phrase and not an honest question. Same as all the other meaningless phrases that are bound to initiate equally meaningless smalltalk. I've become quite good at it over the years... but inwardly I still cringe. If someone isn't interested in my well-being or my day, why the fück that person will ask about it.
Load More Replies... Sharkbait1313 1 year ago (edited)
I actually really admire this quality in my autistic 16 y/o. Everything about her is authentic because she isn't trying to impress, tip toe around, or be fake for anyone. The best thing is her smile and laugh. It is so big and bright and she never fakes it. So you know when she smiles or laughs she is truly happy 😊
Suby 1 year ago
Yes. If I have to know if a shirt or haircut looks good on me or if a lesson made sense, I ask my autistic students. They are honest.
Load More Replies... Sinnsyk Jakte 1 year ago
I don't think I'm on the spectrum, but that question puts me in freeze mode. I've realized no one really wants to know the real answer, so I resort to something vague...like, 'Yup, still alive!' or just some kind of sound.
Orange Panda 1 year ago
I teach them not to ask by answering honestly. I don't like lying.
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Wendy Neumeyer 1 year ago
I ask if they want the truth or a bad lie. I get mixed results, but usually at least a chuckle.
Anna Losonczy 1 year ago
Yes but I'm from Eastern Europe and we usually don't ask questions like this if we don't want to hear the answer. Of course I don't know every people of my country but it's common here.
#21
Robert Beveridge 1 year ago
Hooking your heels over the metal support bar across the back legs of crappy middle school desks is THE underrated comfort move
highwaycrossingfrog 1 year ago
Yes! I will usually fold one leg up under the other in most chairs, or if there's any opportunity put my legs up on another surface. But I think it's because I have short legs
Darth Kittius 1 year ago
Sitting normally can cut off circulation after a bit, so maybe that's part of it?
Barry Fruitman 1 year ago
I laugh when they say to sit that way when meditating. I thought you told me to make myself comfortable?
#22
Jess Smith 1 year ago
you *don't* want to know about Argentina being annoying and hypocritical by refusing to let a Jewish gangster (Meyer Lansky, worse crime: murder, possibly, most common crime: gambling) in but cheerfully letting in Eichmann (worse crime: helping orchestrate a genocide, most common crime: murder)? Or about the time a different gangster got swindled out of $100,000 in Israel? By a rabbi?
For those finding life with ADHD particularly difficult, Nazarova offers some professional advice.
“People with ADHD can improve focus and organization by understanding how their brains work and recognizing that not everything is about willpower—some tasks are genuinely harder for them,” she says. “It’s essential to focus on strengths rather than flaws. One effective strategy is to declutter their environment, as a clean space can enhance concentration.”
This might involve minimizing purchases and using helpful tools like robot vacuums, dishwashers, and dryers to simplify chores. Additionally, prioritizing tasks and using a reward system can motivate the brain. “Ultimately, my advice is to be kind to yourself, understand your needs, and seek help when necessary,” Nazarova encourages.
#23
D. Pitbull 1 year ago
Even worse is when you DO have the words, and explain it clearly, in several different ways and then figure out, after all that .... that others just don't believe you and think you're being a useless POS on purpose.
Sarah Léon 1 year ago
This ! Each time I come in a group I explain what autism is and how it affects me. Everytime I'm answered with "we know this, it's ok". And everytime it ends with me being rejected for all the things I explained in the first place because "it can't be that bad" and "you look normal" and "but things seems so easy for you"... it's so frustrating and exhauting !
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Winter Eleven 1 year ago
I opened the task manager on my mom's computer and said "see those background programs running? That in my head, you're just seeing the desktop"
#24
D. Pitbull 1 year ago
Well, upon reflection - I realized that these complaints **usually** came about when people didn't like that you weren't dancing to their tune/pandering to them. Like... "No, that thing isn't cool. I think it was stupid to spend $$$ on that jacket/dress/thing you don't need, because you were JUST complaining about having no money and being in debt." - now you're too straight forward - they asked question, did not like answer. And you end up being 'too talkative/hyper when they find you're drawing attention away from them, and they're attention wh**es (and they thought inviting you along would make them look EXTRA awesome due to relative attractiveness... and now it's backfiring).
Parmeisan 1 year ago (edited)
I hate how they normalize and EXPECT lying. How do you manage to twist honesty into being a bad thing. You can be tactful and honest both. I never ever lie and yet everybody I know talks about how kind I am, but if you dare to suggest online that such a thing is possible then they tell you to grow up. Like if someone can tactfully tell you the truth and you can't handle it, then perhaps you need to learn how to better regulate your emotions? Adults shouldn't have to be lied to all the time. And if you are lying to your spouse because you don't think they can handle it, that's pretty d*mn condescending.
Load More Replies... Winter Eleven 1 year ago
Also it's better to be an extrovert than an introvert in today's world.
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 year ago
The straight forward bit? It's... Some people claim that they have ADHD or are Neurodivergent when they're actually not. It's just that they're being plain rude. I did not ask your opinion on my clothes, glasses or makeup, nor my wallpaper colour, my choice of mouthwash etc... "I'm a straight talker"... No, you're just being plain rude. If I asked your opinion on something? Fair enough but I actually didn't.
#25
OneWithRatsAndKefir 1 year ago
Let me tell you all, so many things from primary school and secondary school have started to make sense now. And there’s still stuff that I’m realising is ‘oh my god, that was Autism?! How did nobody catch that!?!’
Parmeisan 1 year ago
I couldn't make eye contact with people until I was like 20. My grade 8 teacher even talked with me one time about how important it was and I should try to get better. How did NOBODY think to get me checked? (I know the answer, it's because back then autism was boys only and autism was Rain Man. I still find it a bit wild.)
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BoredPangolin 1 year ago
To be honest, I feel that neurodivergent kids should have the right to be protected from neurotypicals in school while those figure out how to control their meanness. Not only neurodivergent kids are marginalised an bullied at school, but they are also lonely. Fun fact: neurodivergents kids all get one well together. Autistic and ADHD kids make best buddies. ADHD kids are very open and welcoming of difference.
Bryn 1 year ago
And it sucks when you look back in life & realize that the things you were yelled at were because of autism. There was a rise program in my school, for the smart kids. I could have been in that group. But I found out a few years ago, because of my undiagnosed autism & adhd, my behavior wasn't "good enough" for it.
Sidney’s final message to neurodivergent folks is that you’re not alone, and there’s nothing wrong with you.
“Our brains are wired differently, and that’s okay. Embrace the quirks, the challenges, and the strengths that come with being neurodivergent. Seek out community, whether it’s online or in person. Find the tools that work for you, whether that’s therapy, medication, or lifestyle adjustments.”
“Above all,” says Sidney, echoing Nazarova’s sentiment, “be kind to yourself—this journey is yours, and it’s valid.”
#26
Susie Elle 1 year ago
I dream vividly almost every night and often I remember what I dreamt, but since a few weeks I've been dreaming about work related stuff and now I come into the office and the first thing out of my mouth is "Did I already discuss this with you or did I just dream I did?"
Tristin Roholt 1 year ago
Same. Almost missed work one day because I was fired in my dream.
Load More Replies... Orange Panda 1 year ago
I'm so excited about the idea of rereading a series I'm not even done with, but I've forgotten so much of, it would really be better to restart it again and then just power through all 15 books in a row. Then watch the series again.
mysterious(all pronouns) 1 year ago
I've got a really good memory, but I enjoy rewatching and rereading and relistening to things. But now that I think about it, maybe reading the same book cover to cover three or four times in a row isn't a normal person thing to do.
#27
D. Pitbull 1 year ago
... I usually just start explaining varicose veins... and fainting... and pins and needles...
somnomania (she/her, queer) 1 year ago
i have this problem but because i have ehlers-danlos, and if i stand still my feet start to hurt and my spine collapses down into my butt
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 year ago
Yups! That and the whole thing of able bodied people sometimes not understanding how disability crutches work or why it's exhausting to me to stand for a while such as being in a queue. I have to concentrate with my balance, also make sure that there's enough space ahead and behind me because I'm going to have to move my other crutch and I don't want to accidentally hit you if you're directly behind me. Standing for long periods of time does really affect my spine. It can really hurt and possibly end up with me not being able to go out again for a few days. It really is mentally exhausting trying to concentrate on where I'm going with my crutches placements, the pavements which can be uneven, there's litter on the streets which can be slip hazards if, say, a crisp packet goes under my crutch as I'm walking and it causes me to slip slightly which can hurt my back. It's all these things that able bodied people don't realise. But tbh? Unless you've been through it? How would you know?
Michael Danhauer 1 year ago
The scary thing here is I can't tell if they are being humorous or not... I struggle like any other human, but if Op literally believes that then that's a special circle of personal Hell.
Svenne O'Lotta 1 year ago
You should get checked out for autism. Of course they didn't mean that literally. Love, an autistic person.
Load More Replies... Parmeisan 1 year ago
I had always assumed standing was easier than walking (with the exception of standing-perfectly-still like military people sometimes do & which I can't even imagine trying to do) but I think you explained it just fine. In fact I didn't even need an explanation, just say the motion helps and I expect most reasonable people would re-examine their assumptions and if nothing else, accept that that's the way it works for you.
#28
Sinnsyk Jakte 1 year ago (edited)
A librarian once told me to 'shut up!' during storytime when I was six. It was the 'Three Little Pigs' story, and I was so into it.
Sarah Matsoukis 1 year ago
Mine never showed because I already had anxiety and was too scared to be fidgety or interrupt.
Lotekguy 1 year ago
Others only mention the signs that bother them. They don't know the rest of what you're experiencing.
MissCris 1 year ago
Well, they're signs that can be seen outside, so by other people. Strugling to do things is an inner perception, others don't see it. So, at school, only pupils with "bad behavieur" are spotted. However, if a nd pupil is making double effort, in order to be melt among others and have a "proper" behavieur, they aren't listened. Nobody cares about them.
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OneWithRatsAndKefir 1 year ago
I get something similiar with food. I want a snack - I want sweet or savoury - I don’t know what texture I want - on and on and on.
Chewie Baron 1 year ago
I know what you mean! I Always think about what I want, then get them, but in my head, a voice is saying, "no, I don't want them now! I want to eat something else now". AAAARRRRGGGGHHHH!!!!
Load More Replies... Sinnsyk Jakte 1 year ago
Then I just pace and fret and fret and pace, in an unresolveable limbo.
BoredPangolin 1 year ago
I recognised myself in this. Yep, there's a specific thing you want (food, music, or something you're forgetting...) Except brain won't tell you.
Magenta Blu 1 year ago
Me. With food. With stuff. With people. With everything. It is so fckng exhausting
#30
Moosy Girl 1 year ago
Agreed, it should include any day that isn’t this day or that day.
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#31
Susie Elle 1 year ago
Yup. Ask me about my all time favorite book and I can't tell you the plot but I can recall this one scene very vividly
Austin Sauce 1 year ago
Yes all I can remember is that he DID in fact like green eggs and ham.
Load More Replies... D. Pitbull 1 year ago
Strange... I have a f**king fantastic memory with most things - just not with specific dates (which is getting worse as I get older).
james stevenson 1 year ago
Which made things like history tests hard didn't it?
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mysterious(all pronouns) 1 year ago
I remember details and names, but I cannot give you a coherent summary of anything I have enjoyed.
Mark Grant 1 year ago
Sort of the same - I may not remember your name, but I will remember what letter it starts with, how many syllables how many letters it has. My dad was the same.
Alex Ruddies 1 year ago
...yet I can tell you a very specific detail about a neolithic culture that inhabited Anatolia around 7000 B.C.E...
FaceTime Audio 1 year ago
I watched Dead Poets Society. I liked it. I spent the entire movie unable to distinguish Knox and Charlie, and Cameron and Meeks, until a name was said. They have identical faces to me.
#32
Marie BellaDonna 1 year ago (edited)
YES! I call it being just functional enough to know how broken I am, but too broken to fix it. It's humiliating sometimes.
Tyranamar Seuss 1 year ago
This was so frustrating for me. I had no idea what was wrong. I just couldn't shut up. Blep it was out there. All of it. Spoken loudly. Over someone else. I had to literally sit on my hands or bite my tongue and repeat "Sometimes all you have to do is shut up." Over and over in my head. Meds help. I'm not so worried I'm going to forget things. And my points don't seem so urgent.
#33
Maria Maria 1 year ago (edited)
I am so sick of hearing that sentence: "if you misunderstood you should have asked." But l didn't realize that l misunderstood until l did it wrong and everyone got mad at me.
OneWithRatsAndKefir 1 year ago
This is painful. And they never seem to understand why, how or where you got confused, either. Even if you try to explain, they either go ‘yeah, that’s clearly what I meant’ (then how did I do it wrong) or they tell you to pay attention next time.
Puck 1 year ago
Yes! So recognisable. But also: you think you understand, you want to start, but then you start to worry/ overthink/ overanalyse if this is really what you're supposed to do (there are also other possibilities). So you ask and people sigh or roll their eyes or even when they just answer the question you feel they're annoyed. So next time you also overthink wether you should ask the question and you get stuck, because just starting feels wrong, but asking questions feels wrong too.... Sometimes google can help though..
Marie BellaDonna 1 year ago
This was me in math. Always. I'd think I understood it completely, only to get my work back and find out I'd gotten most of the questions all wrong. And not understanding why, or what the hell I screwed up. Turns out I'm not just AuDHD, I also have dyscalculia...
#34
Sinnsyk Jakte 1 year ago
The second picture is...apparently...one of the things about me that my guy admires me for.
#35
Virgil Blue 1 year ago
Very true. I need my games or cartoons to rebalance myself regularly to stay operational.
A Jones 1 year ago
Right, and besides games and toons are for grown folks too. If someone gives you guff, you can say:"Having fun is not wasting time. It's relaxing and improves productivity "
Load More Replies... Freya the Wanderer 1 year ago
I am a very visual person, and appreciate graphics/videos that explain ideas.
#36
Sinnsyk Jakte 1 year ago
I will help justify cat over math: Math will always be there even if you don't want it; cat will not always be there when you want 'em.
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Robert Beveridge 1 year ago
I just saw this referred to as "tangentialism" by a psychiatrist the other day and OMG HE GETS ME
kath morgan 1 year ago
In that situation I tend to get a mental block where I can’t produce any thoughts at all.
Lene 1 year ago
I honestly think it is my giftedness that helped me though uni and helped me stay (somewhat) on focus when I wrote my master's thesis. Lol. And of course, at uni I learned that my M.A. thesis' topic was totally my new hyperfocus (has been since then) so studying was easy and I'd 10/10 do all that studying and learning again. 🤓🤘
#37
james stevenson 1 year ago
When parents say "Because I said so" it makes me so angry and I'm like "But WHY did you say so?"
hwatinternation 1 year ago
And then you get in extra trouble for asking why because they think it's you being deliberately disrespectful and backchatting. I used to ask what backchatting was and would get in so much trouble for that because people thought I was arguing with them when, really, I just didn't understand.
Load More Replies... Georgia Ireland 1 year ago
Thank you! As a child I always wanted to know the why's and where fores of everything. That hasn't changed.
Robert Beveridge 1 year ago
The reasons are important for understanding the approach to (and often the utility of) the task. No reasons, no effort.
D. Pitbull 1 year ago
Is this an autistic thing, or is it being logical/cautious/smart so that you don't get suckered into things like MLMs and scams?
MyName'sLisaMontoyaYouKiltMyPa 1 year ago
That’s autism? Shït, I must be autistic because when I was taking algebra in college, I could NOT get past why i=-1 and was told that it just is. I failed that class.
somnomania (she/her, queer) 1 year ago
i have horror related things that initially upset me greatly and then i was like "but why did it do that in my brain?" and then i experience it many more times until i love whatever it is. same with any sort of negative emotion i have, like my main autistic issue is when people disregard very basic traffic rules that everyone knows, it makes me SO mad, and i would love to know why it annoys me so much (beyond "autism").
Winter Eleven 1 year ago
I haven't been diagnosed (yet?) but i cannot go study some thing because it's so useless and impractical but i need to pass the exam but my brain is like nooooo
#38
BrunoVI 1 year ago
I've literally had a song intermittently stuck in my head since 1987. "There is something about youuu, babyyy so riiiight..." Dammit.
Load More Replies... LonelyLittleLeafSheep 1 year ago
If someone/something interrupts my favorite song, it is necessary to restart the song. As many times as needed until the song is played in its entirety without interruption. And yes, the horn honk from the parking lot outside is an interruption.
Moosy Girl 1 year ago
Does this count if you have 3 different versions of the same song looping?
Sharkbait1313 1 year ago (edited)
And watch the same movie back to back. Once she picks a new movie she likes we are stuck with it for at least 2 years.
DudeFortitude (He/Him) 1 year ago
I'm at 690 plays of my Playlist of The Stupendium songs... (Check them out, they're great!)
Orange Panda 1 year ago
To be fair, it's also an anxiety thing. It's reassuring in it's sameness.
Matt Richardson 1 year ago
This one hits hard. Sometimes I find a new song that I will listen to nonstop for several days. A good piece of music sometimes just connects with my soul and becomes my anthem. Isn't it normal to become fixated on a song that just vibes with you for whatever reason?
#39
Enuya 1 year ago (edited)
The thing is you can appreciate all these things AND acknowledge that your current situation is bad. I am very, very well aware that my situation (economical and general) is far better than it was when I was a child/teen. I AM grateful for it. Every. Single. Day. But it doesn't change the fact that my current situation still sucks - just less than it used to.
Deborah B 1 year ago
Very true. You have to make space for gratitude, and space for acknowledging that things suck. I use today/and reframing. eg "I am in a miserable amount of pain today/right now, and I appreciate my memory foam mattress and heating pad. Thank you, me, for investing in them, they help." Remember to appreciate and thank *yourself* for the things you do and have done to improve your situation.
Load More Replies... Michael Danhauer 1 year ago
Relative stability and safety does not equal happiness or even mere contentment.
Piotr Andrzej Krzemiński 1 year ago
Im currently left with only first one. I still have job but I’m also done I couldn’t keep up. I tried crying for help to coworkers as I have no one else but only thing I got was „everyone has issues”. Maybe someone here can help me with housing in The Netherlands
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 year ago
"But I'm also struggling right now?....... I am actually grateful but I need your understanding and support... Something more important than the very basics..."
BoredPangolin 1 year ago
And please let's not forget the famous "In my time there wasn't any of that sh* (autism, ADHD, etc.).
#40
digitalin 1 year ago
I can literally stare at the task for an hour, having a general idea about what needs to happen, having a list in front of me, and still have a mental block over the next step.
Load More Replies... kath morgan 1 year ago
I guarantee that waiting for a timer to go off will prevent me from focussing.
mysterious(all pronouns) 1 year ago
I struggle immensely with studying unless I can absorb the material fast or in a gamified way. Reading my notes does nothing for me, because it's boring. Watching crash course videos at 2 times speed helps, or doing like a Quizlet or something works, but only for a short amount of time. At least I've got a good memory, because otherwise I would struggle with tests.
Winter Eleven 1 year ago
Just read for 5 minutes take a break for 10 and then go back to reading... Okay but how do i get to the reading part in the beginning? Like i can literally stare at a paragraph and "read it" but dont read it at all
Toothless Feline 1 year ago
I got an even better one. I have a medication that I have to take three times a day, at least six hours apart. A preset reminder doesn’t help because my sleep schedule is erratic, so the first dose doesn’t happen anywhere close to the same time every day. I also can’t simply set two reminders, for six and twelve hours, after I take the first dose because I can’t always take the second dose immediately when the reminder kicks in. So I have to set a six hour reminder immediately after each of the first two doses each day. And I can’t consistently remember to set the next reminder after taking a dose. 🤦♀️
Bored Retsuko 1 year ago
The "reward yourself" part is hilarious and proves that people don't know even the basics about ADHD.
3muddypaws 1 year ago
My fave is "If you do [thing] three days in a row it becomes a habit!" No. No it doesn't.
#41
Zephyr 1 year ago
Siri: I don't have an answer to that question Me: what question?
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Littlebunnyfufu 1 year ago
You can, it's called facebook. Also works for remembering children of cousins names and birthdays.
#42
Jill Rhodry 1 year ago
I was going to say "it's not noise if it comes from you" - but then I remembered that earlier today my hearing was extra sensitive but I had an adhd chaotic chatter moment and it annoyed my autism, grated in my ears and overloaded my sensory input🤦🏻♀️
Bored Retsuko 1 year ago
Viel Spaß in case you want to get tested... (I know you live in Germany, and getting an appointment is a f*****g marathon here... worth it though.)
Load More Replies... somnomania (she/her, queer) 1 year ago
i do the (apparently) midwestern US "oop" whenever i bump into anything, whether it's alive and cares about my noise or not
Winter Eleven 1 year ago
It's like i need complete silence to study for an exam or everything mist be on (tv, radio, toaster, cats, ac...)
Michael Danhauer 1 year ago
I think that's pretty normal human behavior unless the activities are done to the extreme.
#43
Virgil Blue 1 year ago
Friends have told me I was flirting while I thought I was just having a nice conversation. How? Social interaction is a maze.
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Georgia Ireland 1 year ago
My flirting (if it can be called that) involves an intelligent conversation. I can be pretty clueless when it comes to be flirted with.
Sarah Matsoukis 1 year ago
I flirt but so blunt and honest it weirded most guys out so I started feeding them instead
Reviewer01 1 year ago
In my family this look means "remove me from this situation, I don't care how but make it happen, I'm done" and if I'm unable to respect the look fast enough, here comes shutdown
#44
Linden 1 year ago
Pleasure to have in class, while I quietly burned out, disconnected from my own body, developed depression, anxiety disorder, and a massive perfectionism problem. (I'm good now, realising I was neurodivergent prompted a lot of healing)
OneWithRatsAndKefir 1 year ago
I was a ‘pleasure to have in class’, but thinking about it, I masked too well and my issues were never fully accommodated (accidentally, not on purpose; my teachers didn’t know what I needed and I didn’t know either at the time); I wish we could make a system where neurodivergent people could voluntarily choose whether or not to ‘report’ themselves to their former teachers so that the teachers could know that ‘hey, you missed a kid on the spectrum, here’s some things that they now think you really, REALLY should have noticed and should look out for in your next class’.
Susie Elle 1 year ago
Pleasure to have in class but having a decade long nervous breakdown on the inside, then a 'she's so shy we never hear from her' because I'm deathly afraid of making mistakes and even one can ruin my life kinda neurodivergent
digitalin 1 year ago
Both. I recently found all my old teacher comments. Straight across the board: " pleasure to have in class, needs more discipline, so much potential..." I am happy to announce that after proper diagnosis, medication, setting routines, and working on my organization, I am no longer a pleasure to have in class.
kath morgan 1 year ago
Both? I was a pleasure to have in class because I was quiet and did what I was told and now I have crippling social anxiety and can’t self-direct.
#45
Enuya 1 year ago
Make a combo: "I know I should do this thing I postopned for the last two months and that should be ready tomorrow, so I was reading fanfictions but somehow few hours later I was learning about how to make paper flowers because it seemed interesting... anyway, have a crooked paper rose you don't really nead, love you."
veryvenasaur 1 year ago
Honestly the last one speaks to me. One day I just handed my sociology teacher a rock with no context. They kept it and put googly eyes on it because somehow they managed to translate it to me telling them how cool a teacher I thought they were. I also used to have a habit of giving particularly pretty acorns to people I liked. (Alright saying used to is a bit dishonest I just don't currently have acorns stupid summer)
Boots 1 year ago
It's known as "pebbling" like penguins do. I've done the same thing all my life, but only in the past several months learned what the term now is haha
Load More Replies... Freya the Wanderer 1 year ago
Or when you come across a really cool movie, concept, etc. and you don't understand why nobody else is as enthusiastic as you are
james stevenson 1 year ago
The last one makes me think of me at a museum or something, "ooh look at that, ooh that's cool, ooh..."
Winter Eleven 1 year ago
My love language is sending reels on Instagram. I told my friend to just block me if i get annoying but she hasn't (yet?)
#46
james stevenson 1 year ago
HOW DARE *ME*?!? WHO THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?!?
Load More Replies... LokisLilButterknife 1 year ago
My ADHD brain I difficult situations that should cause anxiety.- I got this. It’s scary but I got this. My ADHD brain at a minor inconvenience- I’m going to die. I f****d up. This sucks. My life is a failure.
Freya the Wanderer 1 year ago
I can be as high-strung as a race horse, and sometimes the least little thing makes me over-react.
#47
Winter Eleven 1 year ago
Social anxiety be damned when my cats or friends are being treated unfairly. I turn into a furious lawyer.... That has an anxiety attack for the next two days after coming home
Marie BellaDonna 1 year ago
Oh God I'm always so cranky when we're getting ready to go somewhere!
#48
DudeFortitude (He/Him) 1 year ago
Yep, I literally CANNOT sit still. My hand will vibrate a bit if nothing else is. #ADHDbeingtheworst
Load More Replies... Sinnsyk Jakte 1 year ago
Self-soothing is, ironically, more concerning or incriminating than it really is. As someone studying body language in the context of interrogations, I realized that I--and a lot of people I know--would be marked 'SUS!' just 'cause we're going, 'Oh boy oh no, they think I did it!' and... Yeah.
#49
Magenta Blu 1 year ago
A warning for what? Numbness is a blessing.. i hope it will be permanent, because feeling again would be an insurmontable hell
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#50
LonelyLittleLeafSheep 1 year ago
Someone needs to invent a way to make strong, comfortable clothing out of paper so at the end of the day we can drop our dirty laundry into an incinerator.
Paul Brown 1 year ago
I wish they would invent a pill you could take that would get your whole body clean and not have to shower.
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Toothless Feline 1 year ago
The only way the laundry is ever truly done is if you do laundry naked.
#51
#52
Nat Rich 1 year ago
Haha i always forget the niceties when I write my emails I'm like hello Bam straight to the point. I think after oh yeh should have said. Hope you're well lol
Moosy Girl 1 year ago
Is that like when people at the coffee shop say “hi how are today” and you start saying what you want because you’ve been rehearsing it but then your brain is suddenly like “wait up, you’re supposed to say something nice back” so you stop your order halfway through to sheepishly mutter “uhhh fine, sorry, hi, how are you?” making things super awkward for everyone involved?
Load More Replies... #53
Jess Smith 1 year ago
Autism+adhd+ocd = messy paper and noise overwhelm and obsessiveness over health
#54
LonelyLittleLeafSheep 1 year ago
Hang on, I need to wipe my eyes and splash some water on my face.
bas moelard 1 year ago
Before my ADD diagnosis, quite a lot because I didn't understand myself at a certain point in my life. I didn't understand why I had great trouble doing simple tasks for instance.
#55
veryvenasaur 1 year ago
Shout out to my parents who brought me to an art museum then when they texted "Where are you" They received "Hiding in a dark corner near the cafe" They just came and sat with me in the dark corner. Like wow you put up with my bs very well.
#56
Geoffrey Scott 1 year ago
Or being 60, reading about this stuff on BP, and saying "ah, screw it, too late"
Marie BellaDonna 1 year ago (edited)
Or, me trying get tested as a middle-aged adult, and being unable to find anyone who will evaluate me, so I just gave up, but I know what I know. ETA: I am doctor diagnosed with ADHD. Still trying to find someone to evaluate me for autism. But I know it's there. I live it every day.
#57
Alyssa Phillips 1 year ago
I remember things chronologically in their own right. I can tell you every event in order dealing with x. I can tell you every event in order dealing with y. I have no idea when those time lines start/end or if/when they overlap.
CF 1 year ago (edited)
That's an interesting brain! (Disclaimer- Not saying it's normal or abnormal bc I only have my own brain to compare, ---- AND this is when I usually say f it I'm done and then abandon the comment. How many times have I spent multiple minutes on a comment or reply only to give up near the very end bc its no longer worth correcting or remembering what I wanted to say, or maybe ppl will take it the wrong way, and whoops its way too long). Wow, CF, way to go with inadvertently showcasing your ADHD. At least its in the correct article!
Load More Replies... OneWithRatsAndKefir 1 year ago
Ah, yes; my counsellor recently asked when I was diagnosed with autism. “Uhh… some time before six form, because I definitely had accommodations in sixth form... but not the year before. No, I don’t remember what year I started sixth form, even though that was only… a few… years… ago?”
Lene 1 year ago
ARE YOU TELLING ME THAT THIS IS ALSO A NEURODIVERGENT THING AND NOT JUST ME GOING INSANE!?!?! Seriously... this list is actually teaching me a lot of things about me. I can't wait to get tested in 2026.... 😬 also, I really want to write my life story and also sort all my pictures and put them in an album. But the issue is like that screen shot says.... so I am afraid to get started as I fear it will be an impossible tast for me. 😕
Paul Brown 1 year ago
I can't remember days, dates, months or even what year something happened. I can't remember what I did last Friday
Deborah B 1 year ago
Wait - I thought everyone was this last one. Are we supposed to know when and what order things happened? Unless there's a cue, like "Well, it took place at x school, so I was somewhere 13-15 years old." or "It was at my old flat, so before I lived here, but I would have to look at my rent agreement to work out how long I've lived here, but it's probrably somewhere between like 4 years and 10 years. And I don't know how long I lived there for, but maybe 4-10 years."
#58
veryvenasaur 1 year ago
ARGH this is painfully and brutally accurate. My grandmother started applying the same parenting techniques she used on my four-year-old cousin.
#59
Jess Smith 1 year ago
sooo I decided to check how many tabs I have open and while most of them aren't active it's a miracle my computer is still working with 10110 tabs open. No that wasn't a typo, I'm up to five digits.
Tyranamar Seuss 1 year ago
You need to spend some time shutting tabs. A shutting tabs morning. Coffee and tab shutting. I always start with the ones that look alike that I know I don't need. I.e. shut all Amazon tabs. Then shut all CNN tabs. Makes me less anxious about losing something.
Load More Replies... #60
Nat Rich 1 year ago
I love eggs for a while then i hate eggs for a while then i love eggs for a while...and so on
Lene 1 year ago
Haha as a kid I had this with oranges. Sometimes I loved them and sometimes I couldn't stand them. So whenever my mom asked me if I liked oranges I answered that I didn't know. She must've thought I was weird but somehow she never commented on it. As an adult I just sorta gave up on oranges because I was tired of the on/off thing my tastebuds do with, specifically, oranges. There are also foods that my brain keeps telling me I simply must like.... but then I try the food and nopes. All the tastebuds curl up in tiny foetus positions and refuses to coorporate any further until I stop eating that watermelon/grape/shrimp/blueberry.....etc.
Load More Replies... Bored Retsuko 1 year ago
Exactly. From "I'm going to eat this every day from now on" to "yuck!!"
Load More Replies... 
#62
Jill Rhodry 1 year ago
I wonder of the clarity that comes with an emergency is how normal people see normal everyday stuff
#63
Ineke Pronk 1 year ago
The DLC of the game is also fun. The "I do want to eat and I like what I have on the plate but after 2 bites I hate the texture and trying more makes me wanna puke."
Sheena Leversedge Wood 1 year ago
ugh. that thing when your insides are all squelchy, and you feel sick and queasy, so you don't want to eat, and then every now and then your brain says, "hey, isn't that feeling something known as hunger?" and you eat even though you feel a bit grossed out about eating, and then you feel loads better, and try and file away the "hungry" feeling for future reference, but next time it shows up, it's the same weird feeling
General Stukov 1 year ago
Ye. Cause of my meds and stuff i eat less. So like I'll not had anything all day and feel sick, get to work, force myself to eat then after 2 hours of distress I'll settle and feel fine
#65
DudeFortitude (He/Him) 1 year ago
Doctor: "I'm going to operate on your heart now, so be calm. I think."
Load More Replies... D. Pitbull 1 year ago
YUP. I... I... definitely do this... not... those exact words - but, y'know. Same vibe.
#66
OneWithRatsAndKefir 1 year ago
Too true. Things have been completely upturned for me in the past few months and I wish things would go back to the old way, but I know it can’t and probably won’t.
#67
TrepidMouse 1 year ago
As someone who's afraid of growing up, it's okay to play video games for a younger audience! If they're fun, it doesn't matter what anyone thinks.
LonelyLittleLeafSheep 1 year ago
Try to take my Switch with Animal Crossing from this 60 year old granny. Go ahead, I DARE you.
Load More Replies...
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What do you think ?
D. Pitbull 1 year ago
... Not really sure how I feel about the "feel" of this whole thing where it seems to be leaning heavily on "if you have ADD/ADHD, you're autistic" - like... you know that's not how it works, right?
Linden 1 year ago
I think the title isn't quite right - that's common for Bored Panda. That said there are really big overlaps between autism and ADHD and a lot of people are both.
Load More Replies...
Charlie Piper 1 year ago
A better title would have been "neurodivergence memes" ... and lots weren't funny, they were just sad but relatable. Good post, just could have a more informed title
Soulstorm brew 1 year ago
I couldn't finish the list because it made me depressed and I can't stop thinking about my childhood. Didn't expect this to hurt me.
Maisey Myles 1 year ago
I saw a new psychiatrist yesterday. First visit so I tried to fill her in about my life in 45 minutes- I gave her this recipe of me: Put equal parts of depression, anxiety, guilt into a mixing bowl. Add a dash of shame and self loathing Beat well until soft mushy mess Garnish with a sprig of PTSD Pairs well with sexual trauma, alcoholic parents, gas lighting ex, broken hearts, crying jags.
Nitka Tsar 1 year ago (edited)
Ok, I‘ officially Internet diagnosed now. I‘ve got ADHD and Autism. Thanks (that was a bit of a joke by the way. I do think I might have ADHD, but I know the internet can‘t diagnose me)
CF 1 year ago
See, that's why I still think I'm "worthless and lazy" a lot of the time, despite having an official ADHD diagnosis (from a university psychiatrist after numerous visits and multi-hour evaluation process). So many of my problems that might be due to ADHD also could very well be just normal human stuff. It's hard for me to tell the difference. I really would like to find an (adult) ADHD therapist.. but my ADHD (I think?) means I will keep putting it off and never actually get around to getting one and sigh...
Load More Replies...
Maim 1 year ago
I've read this entire list, and realize most of them are just PEOPLE things. I do / have / say / think all of this stuff but have never been diagnosed or had any need to be diagnosed. Who DOESN'T want to relate to a story someone is telling by relating their own fact? Who DOESN'T know immediately what they want from the fridge and stands there looking at it. I don't get it.
D. Pitbull 1 year ago
... Not really sure how I feel about the "feel" of this whole thing where it seems to be leaning heavily on "if you have ADD/ADHD, you're autistic" - like... you know that's not how it works, right?
Linden 1 year ago
I think the title isn't quite right - that's common for Bored Panda. That said there are really big overlaps between autism and ADHD and a lot of people are both.
Load More Replies... Charlie Piper 1 year ago
A better title would have been "neurodivergence memes" ... and lots weren't funny, they were just sad but relatable. Good post, just could have a more informed title
Soulstorm brew 1 year ago
I couldn't finish the list because it made me depressed and I can't stop thinking about my childhood. Didn't expect this to hurt me.
Maisey Myles 1 year ago
I saw a new psychiatrist yesterday. First visit so I tried to fill her in about my life in 45 minutes- I gave her this recipe of me: Put equal parts of depression, anxiety, guilt into a mixing bowl. Add a dash of shame and self loathing Beat well until soft mushy mess Garnish with a sprig of PTSD Pairs well with sexual trauma, alcoholic parents, gas lighting ex, broken hearts, crying jags.
Nitka Tsar 1 year ago (edited)
Ok, I‘ officially Internet diagnosed now. I‘ve got ADHD and Autism. Thanks (that was a bit of a joke by the way. I do think I might have ADHD, but I know the internet can‘t diagnose me)
CF 1 year ago
See, that's why I still think I'm "worthless and lazy" a lot of the time, despite having an official ADHD diagnosis (from a university psychiatrist after numerous visits and multi-hour evaluation process). So many of my problems that might be due to ADHD also could very well be just normal human stuff. It's hard for me to tell the difference. I really would like to find an (adult) ADHD therapist.. but my ADHD (I think?) means I will keep putting it off and never actually get around to getting one and sigh...
Load More Replies... Maim 1 year ago
I've read this entire list, and realize most of them are just PEOPLE things. I do / have / say / think all of this stuff but have never been diagnosed or had any need to be diagnosed. Who DOESN'T want to relate to a story someone is telling by relating their own fact? Who DOESN'T know immediately what they want from the fridge and stands there looking at it. I don't get it.
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