Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi all
I've just been diagnosed ASD at the age of 55 having really struggled all my life to fit in and many disastrous relationships! I went down the private route for the diagnosis as I just needed to know what was 'wrong' with me. However, I've had the diagnosis now for over two weeks now but still haven't told my family, including my husband. I didn't tell him I was going for an assessment so I just can't seem to find the words to tell him. Has anyone any words of advise to deliver this news without frightening him!!! My family has alway jokingly said to him that he needs a medal for putting up with me. I seem to want to tell. my family but my 'friends' are different. Some think I'm odd / outspoken / funny anyway so maybe it won't come as a shock but how do I start the conversation. I seem to be worried about letting the genie out of the bottle. Thanks for listening as feeling very lost with all this at the moment but at least a lot of my past makes more sense to me know so I'm hoping that the future will be a brighter place for me AND my husband .
Congratulations on taking the brave step to find out, I'm currently going through the same process...
I guess:
1. Tell them what you've been up to in terms of 'self discovery'
2. Explain why, and why 'now'?
3. Tell them the diagnosis
4. Explain what that means for you specifically i.e. not the standard 'media driven' stereotype view of ASD
5. Explain what it means for them - how they can help you, do/don't they have to worry about upsetting/triggering you?
6. Reassure them that you are still you - just better informed and better able to handle some of the things you used to (and still will sometimes) struggle with
Then I dunno... 'hug it out'? It rather depends on how you are...
I'm taking the 'up front & open' approach so by the time I get some kind of answer it'll be 'no news'...
Best of luck, let us know how it goes?