This is something I learned about when I went to Rome with my Mum in 2007 and I was getting a bit panicky because of all the noise and disorder in Rome’s central train station – Rome is very chaotic… I don’t suppose anyone else has noticed that?

She explained to me I have Asperger’s, which is a mild form of Autism.  Characteristics (to rattle off the main headings from the Wikipedia article) include difficulties with social interaction, repetitive interests and behaviour, atypical and verbose language… yup that’s definitely me.  Also loud noise and crowds make me nervous. 

I like to think it goes some way to explaining why I’m such an independent person and have a tough time making really close friends.