It used to be minor, now NYC made it MUCH WORSE!

by CJ
(NYC)

I'm a 21-year old woman living in NYC.

When I was young, I had a few quirks. Biting my nails compulsively, grinding my teeth, etc.

In my teens, it got weirder. I couldn't stand to hear people say particular words (poignant, mirthful) because hearing them made me feel nauseous and angry. And I couldn't stand the texture of certain foods (beets, mushrooms, tomatoes, zucchinis).

But for the past three years, since moving to NYC, I feel like I've been losing my mind!!! Ear plugs used to help block out the external noises of traffic and such, but now I'm so sensitive that the ear plugs just make me hyper-aware of the heartbeat and swallowing noises inside my head. Even a conversation can suddenly make my ears feel overwhelmed to the point where I have to abruptly end the conversation. And I have had to leave rooms because people were all talking at once.

Strangely though, I'm the opposite with touch. I hate lightweight clothes and light touches. I need as much physical stimulation as possible. Which is why I find wearing a chest-pressure-vest very helpful when I'm having these "episodes."

I thought I was the only one. It's so relieving to read everyone's stories and know that I'm not alone. And obviously I'm going to move out of NYC as soon as I'm done with college! No more torturing myself! :)