Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi there.
I got diagnosed with autism a week ago and as you can imagine, I have quite a lot of questions!
I'm 20 years old, female, high IQ, and just wondered if anyone at all is in a similar situation to me...
I work full-time as a Paralegal and have just qualified from my apprenticeship.
People always say that I'm smart and that I should understand things but I just don't when it comes to anything social! I hide behind a mask because barely anyone understands my situation, how I think and feel.
Does anyone have any tips at all for how they cope or try to get around everyday life when almost all my friends socialise in ways which are just hell to me?
Thanks!
Hi :) Welcome to the forum. I'm 25 and still waiting for my assessment after being referred over a year ago. How long did you have to wait?
I work full-time in a good job and have always done very well academically, but I do struggle with a lot of the everyday things that come naturally to other people. I've tried being more open with my friends about what I find challenging and they're great, but they don't really see the effort that goes into socialising for me.
What kind of social situations do you struggle with, and what is it that you find difficult? That might help us to suggest some strategies or alternative activities :) I always hated clubbing because of the loud noises, strobe lights, feeling crowded etc., so I got myself out of doing that, but found other ways to socialise with my friends (such as going out for meals, walks or coffee).
Are you being checked for Aspergers or Autism?...(too long here to explain the difference...because there are some)
Autism (I don't think they diagnose Aspergers anymore - I think they just give an ASD diagnosis either way).