Ever since my autism diagnosis six years ago, I’ve struggled with my identity. After years of masking my autistic traits, I wasn’t even sure who I really was underneath it all. It’s taken many years and a lot of therapy, but I’ve finally stopped camouflaging my true self – and it turns out I’m five raccoons in an overcoat.
I first started to suspect I might be at least one raccoon a couple of years post-diagnosis. Eye contact had always been difficult for me – but as I did more reading, I began to realise this was mainly due to the strip of black fur covering my eyes.
Raccoons can also sleep in their dens for several weeks at a time and vocalise by screaming, whistling, hissing, growling and snarling. They can react badly when cornered by humans, and can even attack if they need to, although they’d rather retreat. The more I read, the more I related.
It didn’t take me long to realise that I couldn’t be just one raccoon. Based on one of average size, I figure I’m probably five – all stacked on top of each other and cleverly concealed by a trench coat.
Knowing I’m five raccoons has helped me find the courage to ask for accommodations, such as protecting me from poachers, removing falling fruits and nuts from your garden so I’m not tempted to eat them, and keeping your bin lids tightly secured.
I just hope by speaking out, I give more autistic people the strength to unmask and discover which gang of procyonidae mammals they might be.
Like what you’ve read so far? Make us your new special interest! Help us grow The Daily Tism by sharing our articles, following us on Instagram, X, Bluesky and Facebook and subscribing to our Patreon for exclusive content that’ll have your neurotypical family saying “I’m not sure I’m the target audience”.
