Christmas is a week from today! I'm excited, but I'm also stressed. Why is that? Part of having OCD means that my brain responds to excitement and stress the same way- by feeling nervous and sometimes even panicky.
You've probably seen some sort of "How to Keep Kids with Autism from being Overwhelmed at Christmas" article, but what about Asperger's? (I cannot speak for the entire Aspie community. I'm not an expert, so this is about my own experience.) I don't get as overwhelmed by sounds and other sensory input as someone with more severe autism might. However, parties with large groups of people are hard for me because I don't always know everyone and I am not good at "small talk". Quite honestly, I don't see the point of small talk- why repeat socially scripted responses when you could have an original conversation? But that's just me.
I'd like to think that Asperger's does not inhibit my ability to buy thoughtful presents for my friends and family. Besides the fact that I have to shop for parents without either one knowing what I'm getting them, I never have much trouble getting gifts for them. I show gratitude for gifts in a different way than most people (not as excitedly, but still sincerely), but my parents know this and know that I am very grateful even if I express it differently.
I hope you all have happy holidays whatever you are celebrating, and as little stress as possible!
