Published on 12, July, 2020
I’m a 68 years old female.
Until recently I would never have thought I had ASD but I recently saw the Documentary on TV about Autism and it was like turning a light bulb on my life. I fit into many of the categories ie small talk, excessive planning, sensory problems, blunt, alone time, meltdowns, hate large gatherings, failed relationships and sexual abuse, and ANXIETY in all things. I have multiple chronic health problems which I’ve been told are stress related.
Im wondering if much of this was missed because I have a natural talent for acting. Ive been a Professional Actress and a Drama Teacher. If you were to ask many people who know me they would say that I’m a confident, outgoing, talented woman.....who dresses the part. When I go out I’m I’m fully made up and glamorously dressed. However I’ve been saying for a few years now that “ playing Jane” is exhausting. At home I can’t be bothered. I would wear my Kaftan all day and no makeup if it was up to me. I do make the effort some days for my husbands sake.
Life has got much more difficult as I’ve got older with more health problems. My blood pressure is out of control at the moment. I usually plan our holidays meticulously but in September I let my husband plan the holiday we were going on with two close friends. What a disaster! I had a meltdown and ruined the holiday for all. He hadn’t planned it to my satisfaction. I realise now after watching a couple of videos by Sarah Hendrickx that I should not have agreed to that situation. I identified so much of my life with hers.
im trying to come to terms with this, as yet undiagnosed, situation. Thinking how different life would have been had I known when I was younger. I’m seeing GP next week and will talk to her. I’m thinking of asking for medication Fluoxetine as I’m so sensitive at the moment.
Any advice would be appreciated.
I have found sarah hendrickx very accessible when learning about ASC. liane holliday wiley is also a useful perspective
If you get the chance.. check this site also. https://musingsofanaspie.com/
So pleased your husband is also onside with your journey
That makes sense about validation. I’ve done the online tests but they are a bit restrictive. I’m hoping if I go for assessment it’ll be the DISCO approach. My husband just watched the Sarah Hendrickx video and made notes on characteristics he recognises in me. It was a long list!
Thanks for that we sound somewhat similar. Love your humour.
I've just got diagnosed (female, 40s). Very glad I got diagnosed as it now explains a lot about me and gives me the validation I need to be me. I too fit into many of the categories you describe. Speaking to your GP definitely sounds like a good idea. Maybe also take a couple of online ASD tests first as well.
Playing Jane is exhausting and in some ways as an undiagnosed woman I could also call myself an actress.. but only of amateur proportions.
Welcome to the forum. There are good, kind, and understanding folk here. Kafkans accepted and make up and masks not an entry requirement
p.s been referred for an assessment by my GP