Autism

I discovered I was autistic at age 23, and I created these blogs to spread autism awareness and hope through my story. Whether you or someone you love is autistic, there is something for you here.

Disclaimers: This blog is meant to be informative; It cannot diagnose anyone with autism. Autism presents itself differently in each autistic person; That is why it's called a spectrum. I am writing from my own experiences as an autistic woman.

You're Not Autistic Unless...

With all the information out there about autism, have you ever wondered what is actually required to get a clinical autism diagnosis? In this post, we will only be discussing the required criteria for autism, according to the DSM-5.

Autism

Melanie Nelson

Nov 5, 202510 min read

How Sensory Sensitivities Can Appear in Autistic Adults

What do sensory sensitivities look like in autistic adults? Can they be both hypersensitive and hyposensitive? What does it look like to be overstimulated as a high-masking adult? In this post, we’ll answer all these questions, as well as discuss tips for autistic people and their loved ones on how to navigate sensory sensitivities.

Autism

Melanie Nelson

Oct 14, 202510 min read

woman holding a bunch of stuffed bunnies

Are Special Interests & Hyperfixations Really That Different?

Are special interests and hyperfixations really that different? In this post, we will explore the potential similarities and differences between special interests and hyperfixations, discuss personal examples from my life (and my husband's), and give both neurodivergent people and their loved ones tips on how to better understand one another when it comes to fixations.

Autism

Melanie Nelson

Oct 1, 20259 min read

Common Autistic Traits in Women (Intellect, Education & Vocation)

In this second post of a four part series, I will delve into my personal traits and experiences revolving around Rudy Simone’s “List of Common Autistic Traits in Women.” There are four columns in her chart, and we’ll be discussing the second column today: intellect, education and vocation.

Autism

Melanie Nelson

Sep 16, 202514 min read

Are Hyperfixations on the Rise?

Have you noticed that almost every person in this generation seems to hyperfixate or have special interests? In this post, we are going to explore whether or not hyperfixations are on the rise, discuss if hyperfixating on interests really makes someone neurodivergent, and define three main categories people can fall into.

Autism

Melanie Nelson

Aug 25, 20257 min read

Common Autistic Traits in Women (Appearance & Personal Habits)

In this first post of a four part series, I will delve into my personal traits and experiences revolving around Rudy Simone’s “List of Common Autistic Traits in Women.” There are four columns in her chart, and we’ll be discussing the first column today: appearance and personal habits.

Autism

Melanie Nelson

Aug 18, 20258 min read