Recently diagnosed with ASC

Hello, 

I have been going through the diagnosis process for the past 10 months, after discovering things I have done since I was little were typically autistic. I struggle understanding face to face interaction and communication the most, however, I was told I am able to effectively mask my traits very effectively. I also have very specific interests and a number of repetitive behaviours which have become part of my routine, in addition to having a diversly colourful vocabulary. Two days ago, I attended the Autistic diagnosis centre in Stomarket for the whole day, for three consulations with a clinical psychologist, culminating with an Autistic diagnosis. Over the past 40 years, I was merely under the assumption I was a smidge eccentric, with a number of quirks that made me the bloke I am. It turns out I have learnt how to mask my tendancies as well as my female counterparts (this probably stems from having learnt to avoid being beaten up for being different to others), and there is a reason I am not like the majority of the people I interact with professionally. I was told I have been able to use my intellect to adopt a professional persona, enabling me to hold down a position of employment so I am able to be a functioning member of society. I would agree with that completely as I am a completely different person when in private (so my wife tells me). I used to work in poisitons in which involved a lot of interaction with the general public (I intentionally got jobs in environments I was uncomfortable as a form of exposure therapy), which took its toll both physically and emotionally over time, leading me to work in the education sector presently. Whilst working as a teaching assistant, suppporting teenagers who are have special educastional needs or difficulties, for the past five years, I have discovered my eccentricities were actually traits presented by a number of autistic individuals. I guess it is this personal revelation that led me down the path to be given a diagnosis. I do not think I would have sought after gaining this diagnosis, if it was not for the fantastic support my wife provides. I am extremely fortunate to have an understanding partner, who has put up with my quirks for almost 15 years. I have four daugters with my wife, who are also understanding when it comes to accepting me for who I am. Anyway, it is nice to meet you.