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Just been diagnosed, any advice?

Tashdani1330

Hi so I'm 25 years old. I've always been a bit of a loner and a bit weird and never thought anything of it. I struggle with noises, lights and being around people. I've got anxiety and depression and always blamed most of my problems to that. Now I've been diagnosed with ASD I don't know what is due to what and how to help myself. I read things but don't know if it's relevant to me and I don't know how to deal with every day life as it is, never mind now. Has anyone got any advice please? 

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  • Hello. I'm in a similar situation - I'm 26 and was diagnosed a few months ago. I was also diagnosed with anxiety in my teens, but not sure now whether this was a misdiagnosis or whether I have both.

    After I was diagnosed with ASD, I was invited to a series of post-diagnostic group sessions over Teams that explained various aspects of the condition and how we might learn to cope with anxiety, employment, socialising etc. I realise that provision varies from place to place but it might be worth getting back in contact with the diagnostic team to see if they can offer anything like this to you.

    If you struggle with your mental health, you might also benefit from seeking out counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) - your GP is probably going to be the best place to start. I've had CBT and counselling in the past, but I struggled with them. You have to be prepared to be vulnerable, to work hard to change your behaviour, and to confront some unpleasant things about yourself and your life. If you feel you're in a headspace where you can do that, I would really encourage you to do so. Just make your provider aware that you are autistic.

    Finally - please be kind to yourself. If you're anything like me you might have a few 'lightbulb moments' over the next few weeks and months - memories that you see in a whole new light knowing you were autistic all along. You might be confused or upset. Allow yourself those feelings but remember: autism is not a curse and the diagnosis doesn't change who you are. Autism is not a defect or an illness, it just means that your brain is wired differently to most people's. In many ways, it's a strength. We have a unique, valuable perspective on life. Wishing you all the best.

  • in reply to petrova.fossil

    Thank you so much for this reply. Its nice to know I'm not alone in these feelings. I have also tried cbt and counselloring but couldn't connect. It felt like homework and I couldn't be that vulnerable to a stranger. The group sessions sound like a good idea. I'll get in contact with them about that.

    I think the hardest thing is I know I haven't changed but I know why I do things so how can I show others that I'm not trying to be rude, unsocialable or weird but it's the autism, especially when it's new. I'm sure I'll figure all this out over time. Just scary now 

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  • in reply to petrova.fossil

    Thank you so much for this reply. Its nice to know I'm not alone in these feelings. I have also tried cbt and counselloring but couldn't connect. It felt like homework and I couldn't be that vulnerable to a stranger. The group sessions sound like a good idea. I'll get in contact with them about that.

    I think the hardest thing is I know I haven't changed but I know why I do things so how can I show others that I'm not trying to be rude, unsocialable or weird but it's the autism, especially when it's new. I'm sure I'll figure all this out over time. Just scary now 

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