This autistic man describes feeling unsupported by their brother and sister when ill and struggling with mental health, contrasting this with the comfort of friendships and supportive spaces.

They recall enjoying a trolley-pushing job because it felt safe, allowed them to help others, and kept them away from management.

They feel out of place in the modern world, miss the simpler past and their parents, and seek structure by attending groups such as music, records and colouring to get out of their flat and break up the day. They also visit a crisis centre café where staff and friends listen without giving advice, which helps them offload frustration and feels healing and cathartic.

They value the environment as a respectful, like-minded, safe space where they do not have to pretend.