Dating/life advice?
I apologize if this comes across as a bit of a dump, I’m very overwhelmed atm. Overall there’s just quite a few aspects of my life that I’m dissatisfied with and really want to work on. Figured here would be the place to ask. I’ll break down my concerns as much as I possibly can.
I, 20 NB, have really been struggling to cope with being autistic. I struggle heavily with executive function. My sensory issues are terrible even with aids. When I’m cleaning I’ll put on music, I’ll wear gloves when washing dishes, I’ll opt for baths rather than showers since I don’t like the repetitive feeling of water hitting me ect. But even still I’m struggling so bad to keep up with self care and daily tasks. I think it’s important to acknowledge that this is the first time I’ve lived alone. I had a very messy home life growing up (both literally and emotionally), and I’m living in a small apartment after being homeless for about 5 months. The transition has been so difficult and I don’t know how to get into a routine. I went through 2 shut downs yesterday after trying to clean and unpack. If anyone has tips or resources I’d really appreciate it. I want to live rather than survive.
Other than that, I’ve been feeling very lonely lately. Part of it I think largely has to do with not really having autistic friends. No one in my personal life really understands my daily struggles. I used to be really close with another autistic person though I’ve severed contact due to some of their choices. The other aspect is dating itself. Admittedly I’m a bit of a hopeless romantic. Ive worked on myself a lot and I’d like to think I’m a person others would be interested in. I pride myself on being kind without expecting much in return, but I also respect and understand my own boundaries and don’t allow people in my life who cross them too frequently. I’ve been told I’m very attractive by many people, just that I’m an acquired taste with being a goth. I’m not really sure what I’m missing. Though I understand no one thing would ever be a guarantee to finding the right relationship, the success has been lackluster to say the least. I seem to attract the wrong people and I’m starting to wonder if it’s because I’m autistic. Though I seldom internalize it or take it personally I do struggle with perceived rejection. I’m not really sure what to do at this point.
Tldr, I feel like a round peg in a square hole and don’t really know how to move forward.
Posted Aug 7, 2025, 12:57 AM UTC