Acedia wrote:
nerdygirl wrote:
I was so smart that my need for help in areas of executive function (specifically in organization and emotional control) were misconstrued as irresponsible and disrespectful behavior. Basically, my intelligence was high enough for me to excel in school *despite* my difficulties, so it was assumed I had no difficulties. So wrong. So, so wrong.
If I had had help learning how to manage some things, it would have prevented A LOT of stress and meltdowns.
I disagree, many NTs have difficulties in education, they are fairly common - such as organization and emotional control. So the fact that you excelled and your problems did not impair in any significant sense doesn't suggest anything clinical. Also emotional outbursts aren't akin to meltdowns. I think a lot of people have this skewed idea that they are the same thing when they're not.
Your username and statement of being very smart may be true, but I can't help but feel that they are inspired by the stereotype that people with AS are nerds or more intelligent, which isn't the case at all.
Nerdygirl wasn't my first choice...I just couldn't think of anything else. I think it is very difficult to think of usernames.
Yes, I identify a bit with being smart. Smart and musical. Pretty much the only things I had going for me growing up since I couldn't say I was well-liked. I lived with plenty of bullying and ostracism.
I am not sure what you are intending by mentioning meltdowns. I didn't say anything about emotional outbursts, though I have had those too. I know they are not the same thing.
Last month, I had a serious meltdown and cried for 3 days. I am 38. Thought I would have outgrown these by now.
I'm not sure how "significance" can be measured as it would be unique to each individual. How did my EF problems affect my life?
Is it significant that I show up to dentist appointments on the wrong day? Is it significant that I could never remember to give my kids their medicine when they were little and had to depend on my husband to call me up from work remind me?
Is it significant that I have made major adjustments in my adult life to keep things "quiet" and reduce the amount of stimulation overload?
At what level is a problem "significant enough" to be considered to have AS? I do not know...