Why relationships can be hard
Relationships can be confusing and hard for anybody. If you are autistic they can be even harder. Relationships often rely on:
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Understanding the other person’s body language (things that are being communicated without using words)
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Understanding emotions – our own emotions and other people’s emotions
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Hugs and holding hands
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A shared way of communicating
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Small talk and chit chat
These can be things that an autistic person may find difficult. They may not come easily or naturally and may need a lot more effort and thought to do. Because of this, relationships can be socially exhausting. People can also make mistakes and may find they themselves in situations that feel unsafe.
However, autistic people can and do have loving and successful relationships.