Autism and SF

[CrocodileMan]

Hey everyone,

I really need some advice from people with experience. I'd especially love to hear from SF operators but anyone with knowledge is appreciated.

I'm 26 civ and I'm interested in joining the Australian SF. I believe I have the skills and determination needed. However, I am autistic -- I was diagnosed with ADHD and OCD as a kid. Im not medicated or in treatment, im very high functioning. In fact I'm about to complete an associate degree in engineering at a full time study load whilst simultaneously working 6 half-days a week.

The only thing is I am socially awkward and socially anxious. The anxiety is purely social though -- I work well under pressure and in dangerous conditions (I have a lot of experience in dangerous and strenuous work roles such as crocodile egg-collecting and pet-meating).

I understand the SF is not a place for snowflakes and I dont expect nor want special treatment. I can roll with the punches and put up with anything. I just want to know if the SF can put up with me and my awkwardness.

So I just want to know, is there a place for someone like me in the SF?

Thanks for your time!

 

[Steve1839]

So I just want to know, is there a place for someone like me in the SF?

I'm retired USSF, stepfather of an autistic adult son, husband of a woman on the spectrum...without going into specifics, without question, I would say the answer is no.

 

[CrocodileMan]

I'm retired USSF, stepfather of an autistic adult son, husband of a woman on the spectrum...without going into specifics, without question, I would say the answer is no.

Thanks for your reply. Man, that is hard for me to hear. I want it really bad. Im no dew drop. I've got the grit. But you think because Im socially awkward I'm not a good fit? I don't even know what else to do with my life. I need mental and physical challenges and a high octane environment.

 

[Steve1839]

But you think because Im socially awkward I'm not a good fit?

Unless you are very different from those I know, grey areas are problematic, and grey areas are where SF tends to operate...

 

[CrocodileMan]

Unless you are very different from those I know, grey areas are problematic, and grey areas are where SF tends to operate...

I see what you mean. Autistic people are very literal and often struggle with ambiguity, needing very specific instructions. I don't think this is something I struggle with, I'm very adaptable and creative. My main concern is really just the social environment. When I meet new people I seem quite awkward and anxious, and I know SF ops are expected to be 100% chill at all times. Do you think I would be disqualified for this?

 

[Steve1839]

Do you think I would be disqualified for this?

I don't know. All you can do is try. If disqualified from the Special Forces is the case, there are other ways to serve...light infantry, para units, etc.

 

[Devildoc]

There are definitely people on the spectrum in the military, but I'd say to a person undiagnosed. An official diagnosis is almost always a disqualifier.