New diagnosis at 28- now rethinking life

Hi.

I've recently been diagnosed as autistic and it's still hitting home. I've worked with kids with ASD for a while and suddenly have realised why I've clicked with them so much. 

When I first got the diagnosis I felt a huge amount of relief, but now I'm starting to get this feeling of; 'who am I, 'what do I look like unmasked' and 'what happens now'. 

I feel proud of myself for taking this step, however it does feel very lonely at the minute as I don't know people who are similar to me, especially as the only other autistic people I know are the kids and adults I teach, who have added learning difficulties. 

Anyone else feeling like this too?? 

  • Hello and welcome!

    If you like reading, two books that have helped me in figuring out my unmasked self are “Unmasking Autism” by Devon Price, PhD and “Self-Care for Autistic People” by Dr. Megan Anna Neff. Both are neurodivergent authors. However, some of the resources - like groups and organizations - that they mention are American-focused.

  • Hi   congrats on your diagnosis

    yes am double your age and recently diagnosed - thinking those things.  I don't think you'll answer them immediately.  I'm actually comfortable with my diagnosis it explains things , there's stuff to work on now , but it will help with the future.

    Try to reach out to local support groups in your area : Autism Services Directory as you may find a local group - who may meet online or face to face