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aspienhermit
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Joined: 23 Sep 2017
Age: 35
Gender: Female
Posts: 7
Location: NJ

02 May 2023, 1:44 pm

Hi, I'm not sure if this is the right forum to put this on. But, I am autistic and I'm very sensitive to noises and lights. I need to put on headphones or earplugs when there is a lot of noise or when I feel like I can't handle the noises anymore. Before, I used to hide the fact that I get bothered by bright lights and loud noises when I'm at events or at a family gathering where there is loud music or flashing lights. Sometimes I would get so overwhelmed I'd hide in the bathroom to calm myself down. Afterwards, I would go home with a headache and feel very tired. Then I would feel overwhelmed and annoyed, affecting my mood and making me want to avoid people.

I work as a photographer and videographer, and I recently started a job where I primarily shoot videos for events such as weddings, birthdays, etc. Next week I have a gig where I have to shoot some video highlights for a DJ at a wedding celebration. I'm not very good with loud noises or bright lights, so I'm looking for advice on how to avoid getting overwhelmed by them. I have the quiet loop earplugs that I will wear, but I can still hear everything sometimes and I don't know how loud this event is going to be. They do help to reduce some noise, but I am worried that I may still feel overwhelmed. The thing that worries me the most is the flashing lights. You might be wondering why I would agree to do a job that will cause me get overwhelmed. I'm asking myself that same question right now. But this is just part of my job.

I'm not sure what to do about the flashing lights as I wear prescribed glasses. If anyone has any advice or tips that would be helpful I'd appreciate it. Thanks.



colliegrace
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Joined: 25 Nov 2022
Age: 31
Gender: Non-binary
Posts: 1,362
Location: USA

02 May 2023, 10:07 pm

I have to wear Loop earplugs at my job too. My job is a grocery store.

My advice is get lots and lots of rest before this event. Wear your noise reduction headphones, not the earplugs. (If they will let you.) Take breaks if you can, or arrange beforehand to give yourself breaks if at all possible. Give yourself a fighting chance to get through this event without overloading.


_________________
ASD level 1, ADHD-C, most likely have dyscalculia as well. RSD hurts.
RAADs: 104 | ASQ: 30 | CAT-Q: 139 | Aspie Quiz: 116/200 (84% probability of being atypical)

Also diagnosed with: seasonal depression, anxiety, OCD


timf
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Joined: 25 Oct 2013
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Posts: 1,119

03 May 2023, 6:00 am

I think there are "clip on" sun glasses that can go over regular glasses.