Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi there.
My name is Garry.
I am 37 years old.
I have just been diagnosed with autism, I am not sure what level, I am still in the process of taking it all in.
I can understand why I have struggled with work and social situations all my life. I feel doors are opening up for me in regards to help and support, with things like looking for the right job, help with organising my finances etc.
I guess I am keen to know that this diagnosis means for me. I have just heard at the age of 5 I was tested, my mum always felt like the doctors and medical professionals were trying to hide something from her.
This has been a journey over the last few years I have been on. I have self diagnosed for at least a few years, and now I officially know does it change anything?
I am also keen to make new friends, I put up barriers because I have been hurt so much in the past, but I am keen to build new relationships, hoping to have learn from the past, my faith helps, it is the biggest part of me. It gives me hope and comfort.
Stay safe everyone!
Hi Garry welcome to this forum of autistic adults and non-autistic carers/parents/partners
What did they say in your report like do you have any co morbid conditions with your autism ? eg OCD anxiety depression
Going to be assessed for ADHD in the future. Have been diagnosed with anxiety and depression over 20 years but I think that is rubbish/or its just a symptom of the main problem.
yes you can do it :) thats awesome a good positive response
But most 'professionals' only ever think about NTs - they are totally lost when dealing with ASD people - they will tend to bluff it rather than admit they are out of their depth.
I think there are people who are genuinely depressed and stuck - overwhelmed by their situation - but I'm also seeing those of us who are just too open and honest when we're in a difficult position - we're asking for 'actual' help with our problems rather than just pills so we can't think straight so we ignore the problems.
That is my experience. I have had most of the common antidepressants and none of them helped me. At least one of them gave my stomach problems. I will not go down that route again
I refuse to accept pills, I have had all the therapies as well. I am hoping to get out and about more, hopefully as things open up can meet new people (actually I am on Friday quite nervous) and hang out with friends
No worries
Sorry spelling boob! there should be their.
Yes maybe more doors will be opening for you as you gain more understanding. People I have met and many online say how there autism not so understood had created mental health difficulties. Some say diagnosis helped them in this respect as they understand themselves and how to accept and apply stuff. I am learning myself although not diagnosed as autistic but dyspraxic. All good wishes to you. You are a worthwhile and valuable individuated person. Doors open to progress.
i have managed to reduce my anxiety and stopped my depression over a 2 year period.
i have ADHD as well,, to me it can be real bother it was today for example - i moved offices and couldnt concentrate today i was watching traffic and birds anything it took several attempts to get me to concentrate on work...
only listen to professionals they're the ones that know best
GD said:its just a symptom of the main problem.
I'm of the same opinion - our problem is we openly discuss negative subjects - NTs hide this information so we are different - so GPs project the negative as depression - and send you away with pills.- problem solved.