Hi all. This is a renound society so I assume this would be the best port of call for support, advice and general opinions.
I am 17 years of age, attend college and am persuing 4 A-Levels.
I have high-functioning Autism which has been a struggle all my life and will contiue to be.
But, it is has been difficult as I have got to this age. I bet, you wouldn't think I have Autism. Most wouldn't. Most wouldn't even begin to contemplate me having Autism until one gets to know me. And it's when someone gets to know me, they see the greatest aspects to the awful ones. Being consciencely aware of Autism and how it affects me, is harder. It introduces self-hatred and frustreation. This is a pretty objective comment, but those with Autism which can be seen at a more obvious level, will be provided with support on a more emotional level than those who are not. For example, I will be called attention seeking when I panic about a situation.
This is hard. I don't expect a reply. But, seeing as there are professionals about. Perhaps some advice would be useful. Perhaps I need to explain my Autism for you to have a better understanding, for you to begin to discuss my matters:
I live my everyday life normally. Help is not needed with regards to everyday life (eating, changing, education, looking after one-self). I am a social flower, I have been in many good friendships of many kinds. I have been in many relationships, two of which have been long term.
My social skills have improfved greatly since a young age: At that point, I could not talk to people. Now, I can. With great pleasure and with ease. No problem. Forming relationships, no problem.
What the problem is, is that because my Autism is more subliminal, people assume it is non-exisitent. Therefor support for it, from people who don't know you at an intimate level, see your actions as attention-seeking.
For example, a situation occurs. An arugment with a friend. Or ex. I can't deal with it. I curl in a ball, cry and become over-emotional and possibly come across as violant. Not to other people. But myself. This is an automatic reaction and therefor is mainted to protect myself from the enviroment which is deemed upsetting (in my head).
I'm not sure how to explain anything else. But the jist of what I am trying to convey, is that I need help. Please could someone give me advice on telling people (and making them believe me) that I am not playing the 'Autism card' everytime I get upset and frusrrated. And that this is my innate responce. It's hurting me knowing that people think that. I will discuss further when a responce comes in but, I would love someone to shed some light. Is there anyone who is, or looks after someone with Autism which has greatly improved (due to harsh cirumstances) and has learned to contorl themselves, but are left with social complications which are not evident and therefor people treat you like rubbish for it.
(I apologize for any gramatical, linguistic or language based mistakes. This was a post which was written impulsly and at the time of the event I felt this way. I wanted to get it out as quick as possible).
Thanks again!!!