Published on 12, July, 2020
Im struggling atm with everything i do becomes obsesional even reading listening to music mindfulness tecqniques. They become so tiring i give up on everything and dont have any special interests left as they all become compulsive. I do everything so intently it doesnt become satisfying. I get really down abt this sort of behaviour i cannot seem to stop. Is this related to my asd which i was diagnosed with 3 months ago. Many thanks gaz.p.s even religion in the past with all its rituals etc
All amazing replies thank you all.gaz
Hi there, gaz.
I agree with Graham that burn-out sounds quite likely, and it's usually best not to fight it too hard; it will only tire you out more, when what you really need is rest. Follow what your instincts are telling you - but I'd also second Grahams advice to get a bit of gentle exercise in the most peaceful place that's handy.
I wonder as well, it sounds from your post that maybe this has got worse just recently, since your diagnosis. That wouldn't be unusual at all. Even though it's true that a diagnosis doesn't change who we are, it does open up a whole load of new angles to look at life, identity, and memories from. Even if you're not consciously ruminating about them, there's probably a fair bit in your mind that's been shaken up and will need some time to settle down. For most of us who weren't diagnosed as small children, it can be quite a roller-coaster for a while. So again, try not to push yourself too hard, and take your time finding and digesting any advice that you need (which you can come here for, of course!)
Sounds just like me. The problem is I then obsessed with being obsessed and worrying about struggling and that negativity becomes analytical ruminations.
Social contact is good and diversions t anything
Much apprecited graham thats useful.kind regards gaz
Hello,
You may be suffering autistic burnout, I’ve had this a number of times in my life. It is a complete shutdown which requires rest, a healthy diet and fresh air. I find long walks useful.
It is also perfectly possible to have both autism and OCD. The main difference being that with OCD, repetitive behaviour is thought to be performed to reduce anxiety, whilst in autism repetitive behaviour is just preferred behaviour, i.e., what the individual wants to do.
You may just need to be kinder to yourself and accept that special interests and repetitive behaviours are not abnormal, but natural and fulfilling for many autistic people.