Furry with Asperger's Wants to Be More Sociable

Hey Papabear,

I'm looking to seek the advice of a fellow furry about relationships. How does one pursue one without much experience? My problem is I have a very hard time communicating with people, especially in person. Sometimes I read people wrong or send the wrong signals without knowing it. I have spent many years in isolation, and am way behind the curve socially. I hate to admit it, in fact I almost tell no one, as a child I was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome. This problem has kept me out of things like higher education, and cost me many social opportunities. Anyway, there's a whole world out there, and I want to find friends that like me for myself. Maybe even if I'm lucky find a special person to spend my time with. I want more out life then going to work and spending time alone. Is there anything out there to help people like me pursue the social scene?

Reclusive Reptile

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Dear Reclusive,

Your social interaction problems are typical of people with Asperger’s, including difficulty reading other people and sending the “wrong signals,” and becoming isolated from society. I cannot give you any tricks to overcome these problems because I’m not a therapist, but I can give you the name of an organization that can help: the Autism Society of America at http://www.autism-society.org/. Start with them and start trying to build a network of people who can support you and be there for you.

The good news is that people who get help for their Asperger’s can live very happy and normal lives, but it does take time and work on your part. Please check out the ASA website to learn more, and good luck!

Papabear