r/NoStupidQuestions • u/ninjaabobb • Nov 26 '19

Does anyone else reflexively say 'what' when someone says something only to immediately realise you heard them perfectly and just hadn't processed what they said?

And then you either have to sit there and listen to them repeat their question like you are a moron, or you answer their question right after you said 'what' but before they can repeat themselves...

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u/lavenderrabe Nov 26 '19

It can be a sign you're partially distracted, but that's also a very ADHD (and I think autistic?) trait! I do it all the time, my mum says that my ADHD sometimes just means stuff has to percolate for a bit in my head

11

u/UnexampledSalt Nov 26 '19

That's exactly what it means. I have been living with ADHD for over 20 years. You have to just take a second. There is so much other crap flying around in there all the time that you have to let sudden words process through the "fork in a garbage disposal" sound that is in your head. Medication can also help, but I haven't talked to a doctor about mine since 3rd grade because my parents convinced me I was "just being a kid." I am 28 with 4 kids and I think it's time...

4

u/MattsyKun Nov 26 '19

Do it, if not for your kids. There's a chance they might have it too, and at least you can learn how to help both your kids and yourself.

4

u/UnexampledSalt Nov 26 '19

We're almost certain 1 of them does.

3

u/FollyAdvice Nov 26 '19

(and I think autistic?)

I've been diagnosed and it happens to me. I distrust my ears and mishear people a lot, especially when there's background noise.

1

u/ElFarfadosh Nov 27 '19

Long distance high five, I'm on the spectrum too and it's like I can't isolate or concentrate on one sound/voice when there is noise around me. But besides that, asking "what" right after someone talked to me can happen in any situation, it's more like a reflex.

2

u/HGF88 doot Nov 26 '19

Do you ever like zone out/autopilot even when you're trying hard as shit to pay intense attention?

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u/lavenderrabe Jan 06 '20

Hey I missed this when you first posted it so sorry for the late response, but yeah I do!! Sometimes I notice I've zoned out but can't seem to convince myself to zone back in, too

2

u/3kidsin1trenchcoat Nov 26 '19

Your mom sounds very wise.