How much do you guys struggle with eye contact?

I read that it’s common with ADHD. so I’m just wondering how much y’all struggle with it?

I’m diagnosed with ASD, and might be getting an ADHD diagnosis in a few weeks. But I’m unsure if I have ASD. My support worker said she doesn’t see much ASD in me, but my psychologist and a couple of psychiatrists have said i am ASD.

Anyway, how much do y’all struggle with eye contact? I struggle with it with new people, but sometimes, after some time, I am able to look at them (not in the eye usually - I look at their nose or chin or whatever). Before some time has passed, I look at the floor or whatever. Anyone else?

  • CerebralHawks@lemmy.dbzer0.comEnglish
    2·
    13 hours ago

    I’ve seen “eye contact” as a content warning (CW), so it’s definitely a thing!

    It’s never really been an issue with me unless someone is staring, and really, only little kids stare. If an adult is staring at you, either you’re doing something wrong, or they mean you ill will. If it’s a little kid, pull one eyelid down with your finger and stick out your tongue, but only if the parents aren’t looking. Get the kid to make a funny face, then look away when the parents follow the child’s gaze. Kid gets in trouble. Problem solved. Or, if you aren’t trying to get the kid in trouble, just wave sheepishly when the parents notice you. Hey, kids get bored, they look around for allies/temporary playmates when they’re sat down in restaurants surrounded by strangers.

    I collect anime plushies. Most of them are designed to make eye contact. I’ve got one, it’s a rare variation of Anya Forger from SPYxFAMILY, with a special outfit. It’s so rare I can’t even find a picture of it on Google. Here’s what the regular one looks like: https://down-my.img.susercontent.com/file/my-11134207-7r98u-llwz8b1x5ityff (Sorry, random ass link, but it’s the one I have, minus the special outfit.) Anyway, that one, I have to sit her at an angle so she’s not staring right at me. It’s cute, it’s adorable, she’s awesome, but yeah, the eye contact is a bit much with that one. I’ve “pointed” her at my wife and my wife’s asked me to tilt her away ever so slightly.

    Eye contact is definitely a thing on the spectrum!