Autistic artist works with city to implement ‘happy to talk’ benches, combatting loneliness

From goodgoodgood.co (thanks to Pam P.)

In the hubbub of London’s Camden Town, Oliver Chan thinks a lot about loneliness.

“Loneliness is an important topic for me because my autism can make it harder for me to form connections with other people,” he wrote for Camden Disabled Voices

“I tend to talk about a specific range of subjects and bring up the same things repeatedly and this can make people not want to interact with me.”

Three people sit on a bench outside, smiling
Oliver Chan (middle) chats with two friends on his “happy to talk” bench. Photo courtesy of Oliver Chan

He also struggles with joining in group conversations, with busier places bringing about even more anxiety and loneliness. 

“Everyone is rushing around and it seems like no one will notice I’m there,” he continued.

While Chan’s experience with autism might amplify feelings of loneliness, he knows it’s something everyone experiences. (continued)

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