Published on 12, July, 2020
Hello,
I've been referred to a specialist team for an autism diagnosis (it was one of those things that popped up every now and then but unfortunately was never pursued. Types of issues included not talking until age 4, difficulties with social interaction and reading body language, being overwhelmed by social situations and crowds, meltdowns,etc.) Because I have bipolar, anxiety etc it was assumed these issues were related to that.
Unfortunately, the waitlist is going to take a long time and part of the reason I went to the GP is that I think I have autistic burnout? Everything is overhwhelming, noises are like electricity, I can't handle social interaction, and my anxiety/ocd is out of control to name a few things. Basically, I'm in a limbo where I haven't had an official diagnosis yet but I'm struggling to have normality. I've been trying to push myself through things like I do with depression (i.e.make myself go to a busy shop) but that's just making me shut down more. I've reached out to a support group but it's possible that I will have to wait for the official diagnosis.
All of this is overwhelming and I just want answers so I can start to cope. If this is autistic burnout, what do I do to start being functional again? Is there any advice or tips people would recommend?
Thank you for your time, I really appreciate it.
btw Jen, I should have said that I am wholly in your situation at the moment - ie undiagnosed. Unlike you, however, I haven't ever had any diagnosis for any sort of difference, whether behavioural or mental - but my oddness is irrefutable and has been causing me increasingly practical problems in my life. Having read, studied and remained very self aware for over 7 years now, I have negligible doubt that I am ASD because of the plethora of indicators throughout my life history, both trite and profound in nature, that for some bizarre reason (AKA super efficient masking) I and others were snow-blind to. I have a ridiculously close identification to one overriding profile of traits.
I have found this place (forum) to be entirely filled with "my type of thoughts" - thus accordingly - "my type of people." There are good brains here - and strong hearts.
If you are ASD and in autistic burnout - I can't imagine a better place for you to hang out. I find it a very comforting place to be.
Nice to meet you.
I find it a comforting place to be too - and ‘my type of people’ - exactly so. It’s the first time I’ve ever really found people (apart from my husband and children) who I really feel I can relate t It’s pretty amazing and has been in a comfort over the last few months in what have been the darkest days of my life. There are such good people on here who are so supportive and kind - it’s given hope about people. Was not THAT keen on people generally before…….
Somehow stupid random emojis on above message - very irritating!