Introduction

Steadman said:

I have never mentioned my newly realised Autism to anyone, and possibly never will.  I am terrified of the reaction.

The more enligtened and caring people will want to know  and be curious on what it means, including how they can help you.

The vast majority have a "so what?" approach which is also valid. It changes nothing for them so why would they care.

A tiny minority of ill informed people will treat you like you are a lesser person as in their minds they equate autism with the non-verbal autists with significant needs.

Like dealing with all these sorts of people in life, appreciate the good ones and tell them so, treat the majority the same as before and for the minority - well you will always have these useless idiots to deal with in life and ignoring them is probably the simplest thing to do.

Try to ease off the masking and become more authentic whenever practical - it is good for your mental health. Most people won't care if you show a bit more "personality" anyway, and you will find it gives back more energy than it was taking to do in the first place.

Welcome to the club!

I'm 44, as of last Sunday. Was diagnosed as a kid, but feel that the potential I had, as a boy, suddenly evaporated after I graduated from Uni 22 years ago.

Hi Steadman, I am 51, female and I have masked my whole life just to get by. I don't think I'm very good at masking though! 

I read a lot about Autism and that helps. There are some good threads on here about books and other media if you are interested in that.

For me, people just think I'm weird too. I work part time and have a family. I think I have done okay. 

See you "on the boards"

Best wishes,

Mrs Snooks

Thank you for replying.  Hard to explain why, but the fact you have replied to my post makes me feel better.  Thank you very much.

Welcome to the community.