Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi,
I told a friend this afternoon about my recent revelation of being autistic. I've known her for years, and I thought she'd be supportive, but she wasn't at all. She questioned why I'd want to have a label. And she also said "well we are all on the spectrum to a degree". I felt she was being distant, and almost dismissive. I tried to explain how this revelation has been positive and is very freeing for me. Our phone conversation has upset me. And I wonder if it's time to move on from this friendship. This isn't the first time she upset me in recent months.
Has anyone else had this experience? I'd like to hear your views.
I haven't had this experience, mainly because I don't have friends. I am sorry this has happened to you. Is it because you are starting to unmask and not trying to hide who you are and your friend is responding to that. Maybe they are just not very informed about autism and neurodivergence. If youve been friends for a while you might want to try and talk to them and be honest with how you feel and ask them if anything is going on with them. This may be minimising your problem sorry. I think you need to focus on what will make you happy, and try to give your friend another chance this may just be new to them but if it isn't working then maybe it is time to find friends that are happy that you can just be you. You shouldn't hide who you are just to make others happy. Hopefully this is helpful. I don't know I don't have much experience with friends though.
Thank you. Now I've had time calm down a bit. I do react quickly and find it difficult to manage my emotions. I'm wondering if she's maybe just worried about me. I know that she's okay, cos she was fine until I brought up the subject.