Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi everyone,
This is my very first post here on the forum!
I was officially diagnosed with autism last Monday, I knew I was, but there was something around to official diagnosis that changed me.
I have been consciously trying to continue to mask at work, people would normally see me as a bubbly, outgoing, confident individual and I didn't intend to let my work "mask" slip any time soon. However, I find myself being more blunt when answering things, and being more reserved when I would normally be super involved in group meetings. To the point where my colleagues joke about me being quiet "for once" and wondering if something is up.
I actually didn't even know I was doing anything different, I thought I just had nothing to say on the topics being discussed, but I don't really feel ready at all to discuss this with my peers or boss (even if I ever do!)
Just wondering what everyone else's experience is like with this? I have heard a lot about learning to unmask but I just haven't gotten that far yet given it is really new for me.
Thank you
My journey went the opposite way. Therapy took me to self-acceptance so I started to listen to myself more often which led me and my therapist to doubt that I'm on the spectrum. From unmasking first and then to diagnosis.. I'm still figuring out what my needs are and who I am. I understand how tough this could be. I really wish you will figure this out soon. I also hope that you can find a place that is true to yourself that wouldn't affect your career.. it's not easy at all! I believe that with enough time and support you can figure out how to do that.
It's a long road but it is absolutely worth it. Thank you so much for your kind words :) I hope you are doing well too!