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Am I autistic or not?

NAS72310

Hi hope everyone's well.

I feel that I may have autism as I have difficulties in communicating with others and my confidence levels are 0. I feel all the time people will judge me if I say or do something. I can't say no either to people I start feeling bad if I do.

I have had this issue since I was a kid and now I am 32. I got bullied alot at school but didn't tell anyone as I was too scared.

Anytime I see someone I know I just want to to run away and not speak to them. It feels horrible to be in this situation and I feel negative most of the time. Has someone been in this situation ? Can anyone tell me if this is related to autism or is it something else pls help. 

  • As some other posters have mentioned, it does seem a lot like your experience better reflects social anxiety which is a condition which is almost invariably comorbid with autism but is a distinct condition. That being said, it could be related to autism but this is unclear from your message. Again, have a look at tests like the AQ10 and the AQ50 and if you score within the threshold of 'autistic traits' then by all means contact your GP or an organisation that can provide advice :)

    Hope all goes well for you!

  • You may like to contact our Autism Helpline team who can provide you with information and advice.

    https://www.autism.org.uk/what-we-do/help-and-support/helpline

    You can call them on 0808 800 4104 (Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm.Please note that the Helpline is experiencing a high volume of calls and it may take a couple of attempts before you get through to speak to an adviser.

    All the best,

  • At the very least you have severe social anxiety. You say your daughter is diagnosed as autistic. Were there any lightbulb moments during her assessment for you? I have 2 daughters diagnosed with ASD, both present completely differently to each other, but kinda share my traits between them. I'm 48 now & finally on the waiting list to be assessed myself for ASD & ADHD. I have a previous ADHD diagnosis, but to get a trial of meds, which I really want, I need a NHS dx. I suggest you do some further research into ASD. Do some online quizzes. Chances are you do have ASD because its usually genetic. Get a private diagnosis if you can for speed, as NHS can take years & you have to fight just to get put on the list. If they think you've been managing so far they often refuse.

  • The feelings you describe are social anxiety ,which may relate to autism ,there are lots of tests online ,but can be due to childhood ,trauma ,bullying  .If you are really struggling a diagnosis or counselling may be helpful.

    My eldest daughter has similar symptoms caused by trauma when she was very young.  

  • in reply to GuybrushThreepwood

    No I haven't taken those tests . I shall have a look thanks

  • Micheal I haven't had a assessment yet I am actually thinking of doing it but hubby and family think I am.fine and I  just worrying too much as my daughter had just been diagnosed with autism

  • I agree with Michael you’re best to get ask your GP for an assessment as this is having an ongoing negative effect on your life. Many autistic people do experience social anxiety but often alongside other things. Have you taken an AQ-10 or AQ-50 test as a guide to whether you show autistic traits?