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Hello

AnnieH
over 2 years ago

I have just joined the community; I am 52 so very late to the party. I am not officially diagnosed but after seeing a counsellor recently for anxiety and chronic lifelong social anxiety I have come to realise that it is a distinct possibility I am on the spectrum.

I have spent my whole life hiding my anxiety and trying to function normally whilst always feeling different somehow but never able to figure out why. I hope that here I might be able to finally feel like I belong and rediscover my true self (I have been 'faking it' so long I am not sure I know who that is). From what I have read on here so far everyone seems very friendly and welcoming.

I work as a veterinary nurse, and have a lifelong love of animals, nature, and history. Another of my passions is Scotland - really everything about it! I also spend a lot of time reading. 

  • Anyway, just thought I would say 'hi'
Parents
  • over 2 years ago

    Hi, and welcome,

    Yes, seems likely that you may be autistic - fairly classic signs there; anxiety, social difficulties, masking, and (perhaps) a preference of animals/things to people.

    Autistic people can be more prone to anxiety, and its worth analysing your thoughts as they can cause/increase anxiety, but also sensory issues can cause anxiety so also worse analysing what your triggers might be.

    I recommend CBT techniques and mindfulness to help with thoughts and feelings - its helped me reduce my anxiety, and my depression as lifted.

    Animals and nature are great for calming feelings like anxiety - I go for walks in nature and also like spotting wildlife, both are good for me.  Parts of Scotland are great for nature, so I hope/assume you get out amongst it.

Reply
  • over 2 years ago

    Hi, and welcome,

    Yes, seems likely that you may be autistic - fairly classic signs there; anxiety, social difficulties, masking, and (perhaps) a preference of animals/things to people.

    Autistic people can be more prone to anxiety, and its worth analysing your thoughts as they can cause/increase anxiety, but also sensory issues can cause anxiety so also worse analysing what your triggers might be.

    I recommend CBT techniques and mindfulness to help with thoughts and feelings - its helped me reduce my anxiety, and my depression as lifted.

    Animals and nature are great for calming feelings like anxiety - I go for walks in nature and also like spotting wildlife, both are good for me.  Parts of Scotland are great for nature, so I hope/assume you get out amongst it.

Children
  • over 2 years ago in reply to Autimator

    Hi Autimator,

    Thanks for your warm welcome. You are right about nature it's such an important thing for me and I instantly feel more calm when I'm amongst it. I am spoilt for choice of wonderful places to go near me.

    I am still having CBT for my anxiety - it seems to be having positive effects so far for my general anxiety less so for the social side but is a work in progress. 

    Sensory wise I prefer quiet places lots of noise adds to my sense of unease and crowded places upset me as its quite important for me to have my personal space - I hate it when you're forced onto physical contact with strangers due to lack of space - yeuch.