Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi, I'm new so I thought I'd introduce myself. I'm in my mid-30s, living in Scotland. For most of my adult life I've suspected I might be autistic, but only recently decided to speak to my GP about getting a referral.
It wasn't until getting my first job a few years ago, that I started having major difficulties. Working in an open plan office is something I've never got used too, particularly when it gets noisy, plus the lighting. And it took me too long to figure out all the unwritten socials rules that I'd ended up rubbing up many of my colleagues up the wrong way.
Anyway at the time I got a referral from my GP to an audiologist and got diagnosed with Auditory Processing Disorder, as sound was one of the bigger issues I struggled with. Though I kind of regret just not seeking an autism diagnosis back then as it would have been easier knowing one way or the other.
But now that I have finally spoken to my GP about an autism assessment referral, it feels like being stuck in between. Even though I feel reasonably sure from everything I've read about ASD, I don't know for certain. So still working out what to do with that self-knowledge, if that makes any sense.
This has been more rambly than I intended!
i have ASD and have office issues eg
I have several sets of headphones and ear defenders ( one with build in radio for music / white noise ). These are quite effective. I can forward u the details of what they are. I am also allowed to move desks to a quieter place with my laptop if it just gets too much. But I dont like moving as i get self-conscious but i reckon that will improve.
open plan offices are horrible. Microsoft have set up individual rooms for their autistic developers in the way they like :)
anyway welcome Pegasus to the forum.
Thanks Aidie. I use a pair of noise cancelling headphones at work which helps with the background noise. Conversations with colleagues in the office can be a challenge especially if someone starts talking to me without getting my attention first. Though there's quieter areas for work chats in my current office which is good.
It's good that you're allowed to work somewhere quieter though understand feeling sub-concious. Are you're colleagues understanding of your need?
they dont know ( i didnt tell them but its an office info leaks gradually) . I use ear defenders plugged into my laptop for music they are better than noise cancelling for people talking. yea people generally wave their hands in front of my face but some get too close but thta a minor thing :)