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How did you cope with your diagnosis?

Jessica

Hello,

Another post I have just read inspired me to start a discussion about this. 

I've recently been diagnosed ASD. I thought I would be absolutely ecstatic with the diagnosis, finally having answers and reassurance. Actually, I have reacted the complete opposite! I feel it has consumed me, and it's all I think about. 

I want to know how other people have coped with their diagnosis, whatever it may be, and however long ago it may have been. Also, if you didn't cope well with it, how did you eventually start to feel better about it? I'm not sure whether to reach out to my boss and ask for some more regular coaching from a trusted colleague who I already go to for coaching once every 5-6 weeks for 1 hour. Does anyone think this may be a good idea? 

I feel this is a trusted space, and can't believe I've actually posted this and broke through a small barrier of my social anxiety! 

Parents

  • Hi! It's been approximately 6 months since my diagnosis after taking about a decade to get up the courage to find out. I was anxious about the results either way ha! If I'm honest, I didn't actually fully process the information straight away. It took me two weeks to get up the strength to read my report and longer to tell people other than my immediate family or friends. I struggled because it's not something that would naturally come up in conversation, for me anyways. I was under a lot of other pressures and mental health issues so it has taken me quite some time to start processing the information, understanding what that means for me and my identity as I have spent such a long time camouflaging and suppressing. Taking my time with the information, reading other Autistic's experiences and books/tips has been so beneficial and support from the Autism service post-diagnostically. 

    It took me some time to decide whether to disclose this in work but it was a positive experience. Some good supervisors of mine explained the benefits and protection it would provide me regarding reasonable adjustments and it's not all on you to help you cope. I still haven't decided whether I will tell my work colleagues but that's a decision for another day. Personally, it helped to share the news and to have someone I could talk to and I trusted to share this information as it helped reduce the internal stress and pressure. 

    Be kind to yourself and take the time to process and let the information settle would be my advice. You can be happy with the news but feel overwhelmed by it because it's a lot to process and a form of change. 

    Also, thanks for posting. I never post/reply to things as it freaks me out. Hope it helps! :)

  • in reply to NAS85426

    I think my biggest goal may be to stop feeling like I can only be my true self at home with my partner. I feel I am so good at masking and camouflaging at work and around people who don't know me too well. I know I won't be in this place soon, I know it will take time. I'm looking forward to being myself in all situations! Thank you for sharing your experience 

  • in reply to Jessica

    I can relate to that. We'll get there! :) 

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