Adult advice for Non-neurotypical
Because some thing's you don't just pick up.
Theme: Clothing and Comfort
(advice from a hyper-sensitive who has struggle with female designed clothing )
1. Clothing is a big struggle for a lot of people. My biggest tip is to put comfort and function way above fashion. Of course social confidence is important. However, for me, growing up, I let the pressure to look good and dress "acceptable" in society outweigh my comfort far too often and its always lead to a breakdown.
2. Seams on some clothing are too itchy and irritating so I wear that clothing inside out. My socks and underwear for example.
3. Tight, restricted and rough clothing is a staple for a lot of feminine fashion however it is something I have almost entirely cut out of my wardrobe. No pencil skirts. No tolle based outfits. They are all too overwhelming and distracting. Some styles and fabrics straight up hurt my sensitive skin.
At this point I've switched quite a bit to male designed clothing. Sturdier, more cotton based fabrics, looser fits, less seams, bonus: pockets.
4. I wear loose fitting, mostly cotton based clothing. It is what I have found the least irritating and distracting. Find whatever fabrics and levels of fitting that work the best for you. Confidence and style is still important to me but my fashion is just always a bit different. I rock a loose rolled sleeve 80's button up and mom jeans.
5. It may go out of style but I like how I look. And more importantly, I'm not having panic attacks in the middle of stores anymore. I can go out and be safe. I have less anxiety day to day. My skin isn't on fire. Your mental and physical health is more important
6. Sheets and blankets. Once again. If you don't like sheets. Ditch em. You may have to wash your blankets more. If you're sleeping better it's worth it. Try duvets! They're sheets for your blankets. I love mine. Also try low scented detergents/softeners/dryersheets. They can be subconsciously overwhelming and distracting you from sleep. Also can irritate skin.
7. Showers. The pressure of water on my skin can be straight up painful. So I prep my body for the intense sensations by letting my hands just run under the water for a while. Until it doesn't hurt. Also sometimes I'll wet my bodywash & loofa and wash my body before I ever even get under the shower. That way I minimize the time I'm being showered.
8. Hair. I've always kept mine very short because i hate the feeling of hair on my neck. So fuck anyone who tells you what length your hair has to be. Fem or masc or whatever. If the length of your hair feels best to you a certain length or style, more power to you to keep it that way.
Conclusion: Your neurological experiences are real and valid. Your sensitivities are real and valid. Let no one stop you from creating a comfortable day to day existence for yourself. The changes I've made to my wardrobe and household have hurt practically no one and have helped me insurmountably. If someone is pointing out or picking on my choices, I found explaining the reasoning behind it usually brings about empathy and when it doesn't and the mockery continues I cut that person out of my life as much as I can. They clearly don't care about me. Please keep care of yourself. Take the time to recognize what your body subconsciously finds irritating and soothe that irritation. It will free up headspace and cause you to feel much more peace in your life
