"The impact of autism on my life differs." - Sanne

My name is Sanne, I'm 27 years old and I recently started living on my own, together with my dog ​​Mila. I am a part-time goldsmith and in my spare time I like to wander in nature. I also have a website and YouTube channel called Een Beetje Bijzonder [A Little Bit Special]. I share my personal experiences with autism on there. I also have a website and YouTube channel called Een Beetje Bijzonder [A Little Bit Special]. I share my personal experiences with autism on there.

I was diagnosed with autism when I was 17 years old. It gave me the answer to the question of why I experienced the world so differently. The impact of autism on my life differs. Sometimes the impact is bigger, sometimes it’s smaller, but it is always there. The fact that stimuli comes in more intensely has the biggest impact on me. I’m easily overstimulated, especially in a busy environment. This can make me extremely tired. But as soon as I’m in nature, that wave of stimuli is actually a nice thing. I see every single flower and I hear every single bird.

I am proud of where I’m at in my life. The past few years haven’t always been easy and my physical and mental health has been terrible. Autism (or rather the not knowing) has indirectly been the cause of this. But with the help of family, friends and social workers I managed to recover. A few years ago this seemed impossible, so I am proud that I succeeded. In addition, I am proud of Een Beetje Bijzonder. It’s something of mine which I share with the world and in the comments I get, I hear that it’s helping others. That feels so good to me.

My tip to people with autism: Try to organize your life in a way that is good for you, even if it’s not like the 'norm'. For years I’ve tried to do what I thought was expected of me, but it didn't make me happy and my health deteriorated. Now I’m learning what is good for me and what my needs are. I am getting to know myself better. This is a quest. Not always easy, but definitely worth it!