Hi everyone

Hello MancGaz36!

AuDHD here with two kids as well. I hope that getting a diagnosis has helped you to understand yourself and the struggles you’ve had, I know it did for me when I got mine. Do you mind me asking if either of your children has ADHD/ASD? At least one of mine does, so I feel like that has helped me to bond with her since we both struggle with similar things.

Hello.

I hope your diagnosis has helped.

I just put up with struggling not realising there might be a reason. I was told I didn't need anyone, possibly due to double empathy problem, so have spent 30 years alone as it seemed easier, before finding out

I think wanting validation, support, reassurance, with a temptation to people please and fit in, makes you vulnerable to manipulation and burnout.

Good luck on your path forward.

Hi and welcome to the community

Hi MancGaz36, 

Welcome to the online community and congratulations on your diagnosis. I am sorry to hear that you have struggled all your life with impulsivity and loneliness. Please know that you are not alone with these feelings. 

I've signposted below a couple of pages on the NAS website that may be useful to you. 

What is autism: https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/what-is-autism

After diagnosis: https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/diagnosis/after-diagnosis

We also have a service directory where you can search for social groups / counsellors who specialise in autism local to you: https://www.autism.org.uk/autism-services-directory

I hope this helps. 

Gina Mod