Sensory issues, such as heightened senses, are common among autistic individuals. Olivia shares examples of how loud noises and bright lights can be overwhelming for her.
Autistic individuals often experience anxiety and depression at higher rates than neurotypical individuals. Olivia talks about her personal experiences with these mental health conditions.
Difficulty with change and inflexibility are common traits in autism. Olivia shares how she relies on routines and struggles when her routine is disrupted.
Socializing can be challenging for autistic individuals. Olivia expresses her preference for alone time and describes her difficulty with eye contact and interpreting facial expressions.
Selective mutism, the inability to speak in certain situations, is a trait experienced by some individuals on the autism spectrum. Olivia opens up about her struggles with selective mutism during meltdowns.