Yesterday the island where I live finely decided that a lockdown was best, I think I can speak for a lot of others living here; it was something that we as the public have been shouting about for a while. I’m not saying we should all panic, I think we all need to work together to ensure that those in our community who are at risk are taken care of. I think so far I have seen many people happy with the lockdown however, we must remember that hundreds have lost their jobs and some businesses may never open again. This keeps me awake at night; I am so lucky and thankful for my situation and I really hope those who need it gain the support and care soon.  

Before lockdown was enforced I was already working from home and avoiding contact with my family members and the public. This isn’t really much of a change for someone like me haha. I have always been rather antisocial and enjoyed spending time alone or indoors. However, I do love walking and I have to admit I’m rather nervous about going for walks so soon after the announcement.   

There are so many problems that will arise from this change such as mental health, many places around the world have had this implemented much longer than us and you can clearly see the affects of it already. We are about a week and a bit behind the UK, roughly. I am seeing more and more options to support people during this hard time in regards to online chats and counsellors which is a massive positive. I personally feel as though this whole change will continue to impact our lives and change the way we view the world even after “it” is “over”. Maybe not in an entirely negative but hopefully it’ll help people remember to wash their hands properly…    

I have been communicating a lot on some ASD and Asperger groups online lately and have seen an abundance of comments and posts about being bored, lonely and general struggling during this time. Not everyone who is on the spectrum has the same traits. I for one love being alone and when it comes to learning without interruption, oh I’m in heaven. I have a wonderful quote from Tony Attwood that just really sums up the fact at this time, for once I am very thankful about being Asperger’s, “Being alone can be a very effective way of calming down and is also enjoyable, especially if engaged in a special interest, one of the greatest pleasures in life for someone with Asperger’s syndrome.” I am aware that some of us truly love social interaction and are good at it (some may enjoy it however find themselves struggling to be accepted) I think this is a wonderful trait but at this time I really do feel for all those in the world whether you’re Asperger’s or not. 

Our medical experts, retail workers and general essential workers are still working on the front line to give us support, medical advice, medicine, food, water, electricity and so much more. Even those of you who work from home are still giving something back to the community, I hope everyone realises no matter how small of an effort you make it will always matter and impact those around you. Both of my parents are essential/critical workers and unless they become unwell they must continue to work, I have so so much respect for those brave workers who continue to work within the public. Nurses will continue to work first hand with those infected and just wow, you are all truly heroes. I am probably forgetting a lot of professionals here, or I have just not mentioned some and I apologise but I really hope everyone stays safe during these hard times, it will get better. 

For me this time has provided me with opportunities to move back into a workplace I previously worked for and has allowed me to gain more general knowledge in the areas I will work within. It is also giving me more time to expand my knowledge in particular fields of study that I think will improve my understanding of the workplace and my future goals. My “Special interests” usually revolve around reading and learning new things which enables me to learn new tasks much quicker and smoother, this has really been a highlight for me at this time. I wish to expand my knowledge in both the technical and psychological fields and this time deems perfect. For those who are struggling, I am so sorry, I really hope you find something that makes you feel a bit more comfortable and continue to be strong and stay home as this really will enable our community to stay safe. 

I hope you are all doing well, let me know how you’re coping with the lockdowns where you are? My traits allow me to handle the situation in a certain way, but we are all different so remember to check in with your loved ones and yourself! You matter just as much 🙂