It is not always true that people can tell if someone is autistic just by their behavior. Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects individuals differently. Some individuals with autism may display noticeable behavioral differences that are recognizable to others, while others might not show any overt signs.
Autism is a spectrum, which means that it encompasses a wide range of behaviors and characteristics. Some individuals with autism may exhibit more pronounced social and communication challenges, while others might have milder symptoms and appear to function more typically in certain situations. This variation can make it challenging for people to identify autism in some individuals, especially if they have learned to cope with social situations or have developed strategies to mask their difficulties.
However, even if you act "normal" (meaning you have developed coping mechanisms to navigate social situations effectively), people might still sense that you are different from them. People are naturally attuned to picking up on social cues and nonverbal communication, and even subtle differences in behavior might be noticed, even if they can't specifically identify the reason behind the difference.
It's important to note that people's reactions to others can be influenced by various factors, and it's not always related to autism or any other specific condition. Sometimes, it may be due to differences in personality, interests, or communication styles, which can create a sense of unfamiliarity or discomfort for some individuals.
If you find that people are off-put by you despite your efforts to fit in, it can be helpful to focus on being true to yourself while also working on developing social skills and emotional intelligence. Seek out supportive environments where people are accepting and understanding of individual differences. Educating others about autism can also help raise awareness and foster greater empathy.
Remember that your worth and value as a person are not defined by how others perceive you. Being autistic is just one aspect of who you are, and you have many unique qualities and strengths to offer the world. Embrace your individuality, seek out like-minded and understanding individuals, and remember that building positive and meaningful relationships is a two-way process that involves finding the right connections with people who appreciate and respect you for who you are.