So I (19F, autistic, severe anxiety) recently had a really uncomfortable situation at a local pool. I have sensory issues, and one of my biggest problems is swim clothes. I absolutely hate how they feel, the tightness, the texture, and especially how exposed they are. It makes me extremely anxious and overstimulated. Because of this, I always wear clean, lightweight shorts and a breathable shirt when I swim. They're only used for swimming, and I always rinse them thoroughly after. They're not heavy or inappropriate, just... not the standard swimsuit look.

This has never really been a problem before, but recently I went to a new public pool and people lost it over what I was wearing. A few people told me that it was "gross" or "unsanitary" (despite my clothes being clean and swim specific), and even said I was making others uncomfortable. Eventually, staff asked me to leave unless I changed into “proper swimwear.”

I tried to explain the sensory issue, but it didn’t matter. I left feeling embarrassed and honestly kind of ashamed for something I can't really control.

I get that pools have rules, but I wasn’t wearing jeans or heavy cotton just clean, practical clothes that work for me.