Published on 12, July, 2020
I’ve always struggled in life with certain aspects but found coping mechanisms to get round the problems and the various mental health issues I developed. But having recently been diagnosed with Autism at the age of 43, following my 16yr old son's diagnosis 8 months ago; I thought that now I had a cause / label for why I am the way I am it would be clear / easier and I could better understand myself; but now I feel more confused than before and notice things more and feel anger and frustration, I also don’t want to use it as an excuse. It that normal?
It’s normal to go through a range of emotions while you process it. My first reaction was grief for the life I might have had if I’d been given proper support and coaching as a teenager. Then there’s denial, anger… I’m about 9 months on from a diagnosis at age 52 and I’m still processing it.