Eurovision Made Me Realise I Was Autistic at 34 2026

Eurovision made me realise that I was autistic at 34, and it was a revelation that changed my life. Growing up, the contest was my secret obsession. While other kids played football, I wrote detailed analyses of each entrant, memorised voting patterns, and dreamed of working at Eurovision. It wasn't until decades later, surrounded by the sensory overload of the contest in Liverpool, that I understood why.

Eurovision as a Special Interest

For many autistic people, special interests are more than hobbies—they are intense, all-consuming passions that provide comfort and joy. Eurovision was exactly that for me. The eclectic performances, the predictable voting blocs (Greece and Cyprus exchanging douze points), and the annual tradition were a constant in my otherwise confusing world. I didn't just watch; I analysed, categorised, and memorised every detail. That level of focus is a classic autistic trait, but back then, I had no idea.

The Sensory Storm of Eurovision Week

When Eurovision came to Liverpool in 2023, I was thrilled. As a TV critic, I finally had a professional excuse to indulge my passion. But the media centre was a sensory nightmare: flashing lights, blaring music, crowds of journalists, and constant demands for social interaction. I felt overwhelmed, yet I couldn't articulate why. I pushed through, but by the end of the week, I was exhausted and on the verge of a meltdown.

Why Late Diagnosis Happens

Many autistic adults, especially those who are socialised as female, go undiagnosed for years. We learn to mask our traits, copying social behaviours and suppressing our natural reactions. I had become an expert at pretending to be 'normal', but the effort was draining. It took the extreme environment of Eurovision—a place where my special interest and my sensory sensitivities collided—to crack the mask.

Signs I Overlooked

• Intense focus on Eurovision trivia and statistics.
• Social exhaustion after events, needing days to recover.
• Sensory sensitivities to loud noises and bright lights.
• Difficulty with small talk, preferring deep dives into specific topics.
• Stimming (repetitive movements) when excited or anxious.

Eurovision vs. Everyday Life: A Comparison

The Path to Diagnosis

After Eurovision, I began researching autism in adults. The more I read, the more I recognised myself. I sought a formal diagnosis, and at 34, I finally had an answer. It wasn't a tragedy; it was a relief. I understood why I had always felt different, and I could start to accept myself.

Embracing Neurodiversity

Now, I see my autism as a strength. My ability to focus deeply, my analytical skills, and my unique perspective have all contributed to my success as a writer. Eurovision, once a source of confusion, became the catalyst for self-discovery. If you're wondering about your own neurotype, pay attention to your passions and your limits—they might be trying to tell you something.

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