Hello, All.
I am a 28 year old Male who has recently been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. All my life I had felt that there was something "different" about me. I first started feeling it as a child, but it wasn't until I was a teenager that I really began to notice it. Originally thinking it was Social Anxiety Disorder, I would voice these concerns with other people and was told simply that I would "grow out of it". But well, I can safely say, at the age of 28 that I have not "grown out of it" and certain aspects of my life continue to be incredibly difficult to manage.
I am married happily to my wife, we have been together for nine years and married for three. But maintaining friendships has always been a struggle. Let alone a relationship. But it was through her love and support that I have been able to get to this stage.
As a couple, she first began to notice my odd behavior when we moved in together. We thought it could have been OCD, and we looked for help so that I could control my anger, but to no avail. It wasn't until a few years down the line that we came across Asperger's, and realized that it summed me up quite well.
Initially we contacted my G.P, who wasn't interested in even pursuing my case. We then looked at local help centers, who also were not interested unless I already had a formal diagnosis. Eventually, we found one who did offer to do a diagnosis but the waiting list was very, very long. So we took the private route. Saving up enough money for me to seek it on our own. In the end, we got out answers.
One place that has since been recommended to me post diagnosis is here. So I thought I would give it a go. I am in need of support from people who understand or can help guide me. My wife has done a brilliant job, but we have a habit of clashing due to her frustration of not understanding me and we want find ways in order to help the both of us.
I do have issues, which I will discuss in due time. I do not wish to taint my introduction by describing them here. For now, I'm just looking to get a feel for the place and to see what happens.
I realize I've probably not given much to go on here. But if anyone has any questions, then I'm more than happy to try and answer.
Bye for now, and thank you.
J.T.E
