Diagnosis has made things worse

Hi, I’ve just been diagnosed aged 25 and I feel this has made things worse as I now know what I thought was just social anxiety (so possibly treatable) is actually autism and so will never go away. Looking back at my life, I realise that autism has had a huge negative impact - I’m unable to do things such as join sports teams or go to parties/social events without experiencing extreme anxiety before going, and then wanting them to be over the whole time I’m there. This has lead to me having no friends at 25 years old which is beginning to take a toll on my mental health. My mind feels like it’s in a constant battle with itself where I want to join in and enjoy playing sports, etc. but when I actually think about doing it, the anxiety kicks in and I end up back where I started. Does anyone else feel the same or have any advice on dealing with the diagnosis?

Parents
  • Hi Adam,

    Welcome!

    I understand what you are feeling. As others have said, logically, this hasn't actually changed anything about you. You were always autistic. So this information can only arm you in the years ahead. I think you will come to terms with it.

Reply
  • Hi Adam,

    Welcome!

    I understand what you are feeling. As others have said, logically, this hasn't actually changed anything about you. You were always autistic. So this information can only arm you in the years ahead. I think you will come to terms with it.

Children
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