I recently watched a video of a woman a little older than me speak about the social struggles of having auditory processing disorder. It seems like the learning disorder is rare due to the lack of information and understanding people have of it. In case you aren't informed about it, APD is a learning disorder that causes a lag or delay in information to be processed in the brain. No, it has nothing to do with being deaf or not hearing very well. For example, a student or individual who does not have APD: it would take them the normal amount of time to process information and be able to respond back. However, someone with APD: the information processing takes a minute or seconds longer which causes the delay in the person being able to respond or understand. Here are some things (as a student with APD) would like you to understand...
1. Talking or engaging is exhausting
Please don't take it personally when someone tells you they just want to be alone or doesn't want to go out. Our brain and cognitive speed are not like yours, which means for us to process and respond back to you, it takes a large amount of brain power and energy which can be exhausting.
2. We'd rather go out alone
This doesn't mean we don't like or have friends to go out with. We just find that it is a hassle and somewhat annoying to go out shopping or on a walk with someone else. It doesn't matter whether you're a close friend or a partner, the feeling of having to entertain someone isn't what we want. Even if you are just coming with us to get out, we don't want company.
3. Give us some time
Don't feel bad for us if you see us reading in the library alone, eating out alone, walking alone, or just alone. We chose to be alone because we are relaxing from being exhausted or we are just giving our brain a rest.
4. Sleepovers and play dates isn't our thing
At least that is how I feel. I have always hated play dates right after school. I was so exhausted from having to use so much of my energy to concentrate and process information at school that I hated the feeling of having to see a friend over who wanted to hang out. My brain was so exhausted and I just wanted to be alone.
5. Self Checkout...a blessing
Being able to go to the store with headphones, avoid the cashiers and customers and just check myself out is awesome. I don't go out to socialize, I go out because I need something. All I wish to do is get my ice cream and go back home.
6. Please be patient
There are many people who have given up on trying to understand how I work. I know Auditory Processing Disorder is not common and well known. But please don't give up on us for the way we are. Trust us, we hate it too. We hate being mentally exhausted all the time.
