To what extent do you feel people care when you tell them you have ASD?

What I mean is that I have had quite mixed responses. In different contexts. I am not sure to the general public pupoluation whether it means much the same, or as it did to me before I knew I was autistic. By 'care' I mean when people genuinely seem to want to understand how that is, feels, or try to empathise with you.

I'm not sure what kind of resonse I am looking for when I tell people. Or if I should expect anything at all.It seems like public understanding is a massive issue, or the ways autism is understood varies greatly from person to person. 

Sorry if this is triggering to anyone. I am interested to know this not so much of your experience of telling close family members, more outer circles and aquaintances.

I may rephrase this question. But keep a record of the original in the description.

Parents
  • For me so far (just 2 months after diagnosis) it is a matter of masking of not masking. With people I would like to reduce masking with, it is important they know because my behaviour may change to one extent or another as I stop trying to be NT. With most people I will maintain my mask, so I would not be telling them — unless there is some overriding need. 

    So far, I have only told one couple who are close friends, and one other person. Both have taken the time to ask me questions to help them understand. They have also accepted it without change towards me. I take this as a positive. I know I am a bit more relaxed with them and feel I can lower my mask a bit. 

Reply
  • For me so far (just 2 months after diagnosis) it is a matter of masking of not masking. With people I would like to reduce masking with, it is important they know because my behaviour may change to one extent or another as I stop trying to be NT. With most people I will maintain my mask, so I would not be telling them — unless there is some overriding need. 

    So far, I have only told one couple who are close friends, and one other person. Both have taken the time to ask me questions to help them understand. They have also accepted it without change towards me. I take this as a positive. I know I am a bit more relaxed with them and feel I can lower my mask a bit. 

Children