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In Denial

LemoniL

Hi, I am an aunty of a young man with high functioning autism who is to some degree in denial about his diagnosis. He says he wants to pretend he does not have it and says it does not effect him. Although his traits may not be initially obvious to an outsider, over time you can see definite patterns/behaviour. He has a very negative view of autism and sees it as a bad thing and does not want anyone to know he has it. I have had open discussions with him about this to try challenge his line of though but he remains steadfast in his thinking. He has just started work and seems very flat in mood and I think he is struggling and feeling overwhelmed but is reluctant to accept suggestions/help. I wondered if anyone has been through something similar or can offer any insight of how to help him.

Parents

  • Hello, i'm 54yo & only diagnosed 2 years ago. I feel pretty much the same as your nephew. I don't want anyone to know, i have managed for most of my life without knowing & i don't feel the need to tell anyone except my close family & the odd close friend.

    It will definitely be affecting him though. i have not been able to ignore it. I have found my own coping mechanisms though & this has helped me & made me very resilient when dealing with the outside world.

    I would advise that he finds someone to talk to whether thats you or a councillor, it will make his life so much easier. I tried locking it away in box but it really does not work. I'm sure with some guidance he will find his way through.

    I hope that is of some comfort.

Reply

  • Hello, i'm 54yo & only diagnosed 2 years ago. I feel pretty much the same as your nephew. I don't want anyone to know, i have managed for most of my life without knowing & i don't feel the need to tell anyone except my close family & the odd close friend.

    It will definitely be affecting him though. i have not been able to ignore it. I have found my own coping mechanisms though & this has helped me & made me very resilient when dealing with the outside world.

    I would advise that he finds someone to talk to whether thats you or a councillor, it will make his life so much easier. I tried locking it away in box but it really does not work. I'm sure with some guidance he will find his way through.

    I hope that is of some comfort.

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