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Career that works with autism, not against it

ElleF

Hello all.

I am struggling with income. I have never managed to have a career. I worked in an office basically doing odd jobs that needed doing and I would cry every day. I then did a photography course and started doing photography, shooting for small brands from home, but I struggled to earn enough money. I then completed a 3 year degree in nutritional therapy but ended up having a breakdown trigged by clinical work. I find working with clients/ patients one-on-one really stressful. I started having frequent meltdowns, then panic attacks and then a breakdown. It is the second breakdown I've had in the last 9 years. I was put on an antidepressant (which didn't help) and sent for CBT (which made me feel worse). Since I graduated at the end of last year I have struggled to find clients and make money.

I don't know how to earn money or work as a nutritional therapist without having meltdowns and panic attacks. I don't think I can go through another breakdown. And my mum says she can't do it again and that I need to sort myself out. I feel like a failure and a burden to my family.

I have tried to find support. I have been rejected multiple time for business support. I can't seem to find any suitable adult autism support - most is high needs, dungeons and dragons and art therapy.  

Is it possible to actually make a living doing things you enjoy? Things I enjoy: working out, health, skincare, being creative (writing, making guides, product photography).

How have you managed to make money/ have a career without sacrificing your health?

Would appreciate any tips.

Parents

  • Honestly?  I don't know.  But from what you describe, I think you should stop trying to work in any area that causes you distress/harm.  Recently, I was chatting with an old friend; he told me that his daughter has just been headhunted because of her autism.  The company had employed her before, and she had moved on to better pay and more responsibilities, and then got diagnosed.  The message she got was that her creative way of looking at things, her autistic methods, if you like, were of value to her old employer, and they realised what they had lost.  I recount this as an example that there are enlightened employers out there who do see the value of neurodivergence in their workplace, so don't give up, but at the same time be very kind to yourself.  Good luck in your search.

  • in reply to Iago

    Thank you for you reply. I feel guilty for not using my degree, especially as It cost so much. 

  • in reply to ElleF

    Don't!  I got a Master's at 56 and retired at 58.  I am not in any way sorry not to have used my degree; it has taught me how to think and question.  Any learning is never wasted; you just haven't figured out what yours is for yet.

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