• Replies 5 replies
  • Subscribers 85 subscribers
  • Views 108 views
  • Users 0 members are here
Options
Related
Hints and tips
  • To quote someone's message, first select/highlight the relevant text, and then use the Quote button that appears
  • To "mention" someone, type @ followed by the start of the forum name, and choose from the list; that person will get a notification of being mentioned

Emotional regression following late diagnosis?

Andy Neniu

Hi All,

I recently got my ASC diagnosis in my early 50s and feel like I've emotionally regressed. I'm not sure exactly how to explain what I mean. I think it might be part of the unmasking process, I feel like I've regressed to where I was when I was 14 or 15. I've picked up some of my childhood hobbies again (I've rediscovered my love of Warhammer and model painting) and I feel a bit embarrassed and maybe a bit ashamed that I'm engaging in stuff that I "should have grown out of by now". I know that I shouldn't worry what other people think, and I do try not let it alter my authentic self. I worry that it feels self-indulgent and childish, and even though I'm enjoying it I feel some guilt and shame.

Is this just what it feels like to begin to unmask and enjoy a special interest? I wonder if I'm unconsciously retreating into a place where I felt safe, or maybe a pivotal time in my life before I unlearned who I really am?

Is this a common experience, has anyone else had the same thing as a late-diagnosed adult? Any reflections and wisdom gratefully received.

Parents

  • If you stop consciously or sub-consciously trying to conform to what other people expect, and don't worry about it, then you will find what you enjoy. You don't need other people's approval.

    As long as it's legal and doesn't cause other people any trouble then it is just a case of having the confidence to do it.

    Adults build models all the time. People create railways, dioramas, have radio control cars, planes, soldiers,  boats, all sorts. Don't feel guilty.

    I wouldn't over think what it means. Just do what you enjoy.

Reply

  • If you stop consciously or sub-consciously trying to conform to what other people expect, and don't worry about it, then you will find what you enjoy. You don't need other people's approval.

    As long as it's legal and doesn't cause other people any trouble then it is just a case of having the confidence to do it.

    Adults build models all the time. People create railways, dioramas, have radio control cars, planes, soldiers,  boats, all sorts. Don't feel guilty.

    I wouldn't over think what it means. Just do what you enjoy.

Children
No Data