Living with NTs
Living with Neuro-typical (NTs) roommates has it's pros and cons. Our brains fundamentally function differently and therefore we experience a lot of "culture clashes." Here are a few things that help my household minimize those clashes: 1. Group chat- on the days I feel Nonverbal, or I don't have the bandwidth to mask and emote, I let my roommates know. A quick "hey, I'm non verbal today!" text will bypass any 'what's wrong?' or 'are your mad at me?' questions. They give me my space and I give them their's. 2. Safe words- when out in public, and I get overwhelmed or overstimulated, I freeze and/or bolt. I IMMEDIATELY need remove myself from the situation to avoid a panic attack. I, as an adult, can usually do this on my own. However, it's very odd when a person randomly stands up from the table and walks out on brunch without saying a single word. This is where a safe word comes in. I'll simply turn to my friends (or whomever I'm with) and say "I am so sorry, but Pumpernickel.” They will immediately understand that I am not trying to be rude, or trying to cause a scene, I'm just trying to regulate myself, and I'm doing what my body needs in that moment. Again, this limits the amount of communication that would normally be needed. And I can gracefully exit without too much fuss, or without being forced to stay in a torturous situation. What are some of YOUR tips n tricks?