Rigidity, obsessiveness, and other problematic behaviour.

Behaviour problems, especially rigidity and obsessive behaviour, as well as unusual responses to the environment, are an inherent part of my autism and mental illnesses.

• Rigidity: Because I need things to be predictable, I am often rigid to what appears to be an excessive degree. I can only be flexible when it is my own idea. If anyone else tries to make me change something, I become extremely resistant, oppositional, and anxious.Attachment to objects: I become attached to specific objects which I will not be separated from. Some of these items are only required when I leave the house; I will refuse to leave the house without them.
• Ritualistic and obsessive behaviour: After waking in the night, I can not return to sleep without first checking my computer. This can take a few minutes to several hours. I must follow specific rituals and have things done in exactly the right way (my way).
• Destructiveness and impulsivity: Although I am not normally aggressive towards other people, I can become destructive to objects if I get very upset. I become frustrated very easily and will shout at other people, throw things, or hurt myself. I often feel as though I might be destructive and need to hold in my impulses. When I get angry I handle people and objects too roughly which can cause them harm. I can be very impulsive and take unnecessary risks.
• Irritability: I can be extremely irritable, argumentative, and shout much more than other people do. Although I need frequent prompting and guidance, I resent the interference (6h) and become extremely oppositional.
• Dealing with illness and injury: When I am injured (e.g. From a fall (pg. 5)), I can become extremely distressed, fascinated, or completely ignore an injury that requires attention. I am not usually aware of when I am becoming physically or mentally ill and need someone to tell me if I am showing signs of depression or other illness. When I am ill or in pain (1a,b,d), I can suffer anxiety attacks (8), get very depressed, withdraw (7g), fail to take care of myself or interact with others, and become very helpless and child-like. I often don't realise how serious an illness or injury may be (6f) or get extremely upset about something relatively minor. I need someone else to tell me if I am getting depressed, behaving oddly, or appear to be ill, and to assist me in getting the appropriate help.