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Roninninja
Pileated woodpecker
Pileated woodpecker

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Joined: 15 Apr 2012
Age: 38
Gender: Male
Posts: 191

18 May 2012, 9:55 pm

I am currently in college studying computer science. For once, I'm around people who share my core interests and have actually made a few friends. Both of my friends/classmates claim to suffer from depression and constantly wallow in self pity. They invited me over last night and we played video games. Afterwards, we headed over to a local park and they began to talk about their empty feelings and depression. They seemed to want my advice or something, but since I don't quite understand why they are depressed I found myself just sitting there quietly, while they seemed to really be immersed in the conversation.

I don't really suffer from social anxiety at all, but when people talk about their feelings I just can't relate. When the conversation shifted back to computers, I found myself talking to them again. I'm not completely heartless and I do feel empathy for people, but i just get annoyed when people pity themselves. I believe they are both NT, and I don't think they know I have Aspergers. (not exactly something I brag about) However, I do enjoy their company for the most part. Do any of you have NT friends? How do you deal with them when they talk about feelings?


_________________
Your Aspie score: 159 of 200
Your neurotypical (non-autistic) score: 51 of 200
You are very likely an Aspie


cathylynn
Veteran
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Joined: 24 Aug 2011
Gender: Female
Posts: 13,045
Location: northeast US

18 May 2012, 10:15 pm

i say things like, "yes", "uhuh", and "hmm" just to let them know i'm listening. just because they feel bad doesn't mean they're being self-pitying. you can always say, "i'm sorry you're going through this." and to be on the safe side if they give you the slightest clue they're thinking of hurting themselves, ask directly, "are you thinking of killing yourself?" if they are, don't leave them alone until help has arrived.