What was your life like before you knew you were autistic?

There have been quite a few comments recently since the recent documentaries about the experiences of those of us who are older. This made me wonder how my life would have been like had I known why some things were difficult. I spent a lot of my life wishing I could relate to others more easily, like others I came in contact with.  I guess since knowing I have wished less to be like others and tried to accept how I am. 

I had some interesting experiences in my younger days, including a few trips to interesting places abroad. I am glad I have those memories. However today I find a lot of ordinary things challenging and am happy to be at home a lot of the time. I have always found home to be my safe place, but occasionally managed to go beyond my comfort zone.

How have others found the change since knowing they were autistic?

Parents
  • Before I knew I was autistic, my self-esteem was awful. I thought I was a lazy, useless person who was rubbish at doing 'proper adult' things. Since self-realisation and subsequent diagnosis I'm gradually starting to believe the truth- that I just struggle with different things than other people do, because that's the way I'm made, and it's not a personal failing to be autistic any more than it's a personal failing that I have physical disabilities.

    I wouldn't say I'm relentlessly positive about being autistic- it makes me great at my job, but also makes me cry if the smoke alarm goes off- but knowing is making it easier to forgive myself for not being like everyone else.

  • I'm the same...I'm trying to be less hard on myself and be positive.  Oh and fire alarms, don't get me started Sob

Reply Children
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