Published on 12, July, 2020
Hello. I am new here and dont really know why im writing this.
I dont know if i belong here, im in a bit of a limbo.
My referral for assessment has been accepted Following 20+ therapy sessions. I have been waiting. I got in touch with my local autism assessment service and they said the wait in my area is now around 18-24 months putting my assessment date to early 2024. I am so lost. Something happened to me over a year ago and it reset all my social skills i have learnt over my whole life. I feel like i dont like anyone, i dont want to know anyone and i have no interest in anything. Work is crap. Mental health is at the very bottom but common sense is preventing any suicidal thoughts. I contacted talking therapy again and the guy i spoke to even said to me he doesnt want to put me through 'coping strategies' because i am strongly presenting with autism traits and coping strategies will mean i am intentionally put into situations that are uncomfortable and he honestly doesn't think it will do my health any good. He said he doesnt want to refuse therapy but he asked me to consider if i really want it. My gp suggested signing me off work and prescribing "short term sedation" to help deal with how im feeling right now. I really dont think that will help. I am at a complete loss and i dont feel like im entitled to any advice from autism side because without the diagnosis i dont feel like i belong in the community. I am so so stuck and i dont know what to do. Lately i am terrified to wake up because i know i will have to face the day.
My new therapist told me i could look on NAS website for advice and support. Im just feeling at a complete loss and dont know where to turn at this point. Im sorry for rambling on this took ages for me to post because im terrified i dont belong in here and it feels like im labeling myself already. Im also scared that assessment will say im not autistic.
Thank you for reading if anyone does.
Hi, thank you for posting, I'm glad that you did.
My experience of this group has been really positive. People have been very welcoming. I only joined a couple of months ago having got a diagnosis, but everyone has their own route, and with or without diagnosis, I am sure you will find people very welcoming.
You are absolutely entitled to reach out for advice, with or without a diagnosis, and I'm glad that you did.
I'm sorry that you are having such a hard time at present. It's a bit difficult to know what advice to give without knowing what would work for you - in the past, when I have found myself experiencing those feelings, my first step has been to try and get outside - even just sitting in the back garden taking in the birds and wildlife. If I'm able to run, so much the better, that always makes me feel better. I realise this may not necessarily work for you, but I suppose the point is to start off with small steps with little or no stress which will help you feel like you are making some progress.
Whatever works for you, you will get through it, and I'm glad you posted here.