Hi All,
In researching about autism (I've been referred for assessment and what I've read is eerily like my life story) but I've come across stuff that doesn't "fit" in terms of being impulsive and craving novelty.
I'm an obsessive planner and hate being late (my time keeping is good), but I'm impulsive and easily distracted so rarely follow through on all my plans although i need the deadlines to motivate. I do better in a routine, but get bored easily if something doesn't interest me. I have certain things that I have to do (music, exercise) but I need the novelty and challenge of doing different sports/types of music to maintain interest. I don't have restricted food interests - I like variety and binge (diagnosed eating disorder) when I'm bored or emotional. I can focus and do high quality work, but I procrastinate, get distracted and overwhelmed and have to use techniques to keep me on track. I'm good at detail, but too much detail on the wrong thing bores me.
I really don't meet the full criteria for adhd as I'm not disorganised or forgetful on a day to day basis and I did well at school. I do seem to meet most of the criteria for autism with the exception of the above.
What does this all mean?? Am I just going mad? My family are all very much routine people (I recognise more "typical" autistic traits if that's not a contradiction in terms) but I'm the weird one that craves change while also struggling with the social/emotional sides. Does this mean I'm not autistic?
