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How many of us are there really?

Dawn

The NAS says one in 700,000 or 1% of the population. Of course they can only count the diagnosed.

Thinking about my work team: 2 of us diagnosed and 'loud and proud' about it, one we know, but he doesn't choose to say, one more with kids with a diagnosis and has self diagnosed...out of only 11 of us? 

Not one but two of my ex boyfriends, with whom I am still good friends, have self diagnosed - yup! I see that. Well, they say like attracts like; probably why I'm so fond of them.

We are definately a small minority. If we weren't the world would be catering to us better, but not so small as just 1%, I'm sure. Obviously, I picked my ex-boyfriends, but I didn't pick my colleagues however it turns out I like them. I only had a hand in recruiting one of them.

So, what do we think? How many of us are there really, do you think?

Parents

  •  Considering we are those that ‘think differently’ than the masses, I think we are huge in number. I mean in my family, 2 are self diagnosed, 2 are diagnosed, at least 8 are suspected (mostly now 50+)….I’ve told my ex he is Autistic. It was staring me in the face, and I only just realised. Explains why we got on so well. But also explains why he is so incredibly difficult and naive.

    At work, there are 1-2 diagnosed that I know of, and a handful I suspect and they don’t even realise. All the rest seem to have a sibling or child with Autism or ADHD….
    Actually, this should be a new question.  How many of you can seem to spot Autism or ADHD in others?

  • in reply to Catlover

    I think I've been automatically drawn to other autistic people all my life, without ever realising what was going on.  Now I think I can spot it, but if I mention it even jsut as a possiblity within some branches of the family, they become defensive and think I want to diagnose everyone. 

  • in reply to Jenny Butterfly

    Yes, same for me. Like how I get on with certain work colleagues when others aren’t keen on them because they are blunt, direct, know it all, do things their own way, don’t conform, don’t socialise, controlling etc. I know they’re on the spectrum and don’t realise it.
    I do discuss my findings with those close to me, but I’ve found it’s best not to suggest anything to anyone as it causes too much stress. They usually find out of their own accord, and then I say ‘I knew’…

  • in reply to Catlover

    Yes, it's not something i've ever mentioned at work, amongst colleagues or acquaintances and it's a thorny issue, I find. 

    The thing is, though, I really, really wish that somene had told me earlier on in life, even if my initial reaction might have been negative.  As a family, being left to find out on our own has led to severe mental health issues, burnout, breakdown and suicidality.  Only after nearly 4 years with crisis teams and early intervention services was it mentioned.  I was hoping to save other branches of the family from this experience.   

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  • in reply to Catlover

    Yes, it's not something i've ever mentioned at work, amongst colleagues or acquaintances and it's a thorny issue, I find. 

    The thing is, though, I really, really wish that somene had told me earlier on in life, even if my initial reaction might have been negative.  As a family, being left to find out on our own has led to severe mental health issues, burnout, breakdown and suicidality.  Only after nearly 4 years with crisis teams and early intervention services was it mentioned.  I was hoping to save other branches of the family from this experience.   

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