Autistic w/ Selective Mutism Looking to Make Uni Life Easier!

[PixelThief]

As I've become more independent in the last few years, I've found verbal communication really difficult. I'm hoping that learning BSL will allow me to communicate more effectively. Campus life has been extremely overwhelming and when I'm most stressed and least prepared, I physically cannot speak. It's not a 24/7 problem but it can crop up when communication is important, so I thought it would be best to trying something new.

So far, I've just been writing notes but I think BSL might be able to open some doors for me. I'm so used to avoiding unnecessary social situations and writing little scripts for myself when it comes to things like doctor's appointments; it's an incredibly inconvenient and exhausting way to live.

And since the british-sign.co.uk online course provides learners with a certification, I thought it would also look nice on my CV since I'm planning to work in an immensely competitive industry. All in all, it seems like a really great idea.

If you're in a similar boat to me or are learning BSL for an autistic person with verbal communication difficulties, feel free to drop me a message and let me know how it's going!

Edited August 22, 2021 by PixelThief
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[ElHazel]

I'm in a very similar boat to you. I also have some issues with hearing/auditory processing as well but because I'm autistic and have panic disorder I can often get non-verbal when overwhelmed and it's happened during uni before, even, and it was really hard to deal with. Compared to other languages I've studied, BSL has not been that hard to learn for me.

[Julia fairbairn]

Being a visual communication im hoping  British sign language will be easier to pick up than other languages which rely mainly on auditory processing. Good luck on your learning journey

[Eufloribeth]

I hadn't thought about how hearing people with other needs could use BSL, I think it's a great idea for you and I really hope that when you're overwhelmed and struggling to communicate with your voice that BSL will be a useful tool for you.