I can’t tell if I like my friend romantically or if I’m just super happy to be around her?

[Anonymous]

I’m an autistic dude. I barely had any friends in school, but I’ve recently made friends with a girl and we get on super well. I feel insanely happy when I’m around her but I have no clue if it’s because I like her romantically or because I’m just happy to have someone treat me like an actual human being for once? I feel no sexual attraction towards her, but at the same time I feel like I’d be jealous if she got a boyfriend?

[Oliverlogan263]

Man that sounds like a tricky situation. As an autistic dude, I totally get being unsure what your feelings mean. Here's some things to think about:

- Feeling happy and cared for is awesome! Cherish that. But jealousy wouldn't make sense for just a friend.

- No feelings of sexual attraction is a good sign it may not be romantic like. We need that spark for romance usually.

- Do you want her as more than a friend? Imagine holding hands, cuddling, kissing - how's that feel? Helps sort it out.

- Are you treating her differently than your guy friends? Do little things for her happiness? That shows liking her as a potential girlfriend.

- Give it time. See how your bond grows and how you feel gradually. Don't force a label yet if you're unsure.

- Talk to her! Be honest you value her friendship a ton and were confused. Ask if she'd be open to trying dating if feelings change.

Take the pressure off for now. Enjoy your friendship. Over time you'll learn more what you really want from this special connection you've found together.

[IslaTheWitch]

make more friends... autistic people need friends... and about her you will discover with time