Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi there, I am new here. I just received my diagnosis last week.
I am feeling like I have arrived on a new alien planet ... Honestly, I am struggling.
I feel like I am feeling every possible emotion in response to my diagnosis: relief, understanding (but at the same time confusion), frustration (how did no one spot this before?), isolation.... You name it! It's a rollercoaster.
I was wondering if anyone had any advice for me (and other who are newly diagnosed) - any tips, ideas for connecting to others on the spectrum, book recommendations, online support groups....
Thank you ️
Louise said:I feel like I am feeling every possible emotion in response to my diagnosis: relief, understanding (but at the same time confusion), frustration (how did no one spot this before?), isolation.... You name it! It's a rollercoaster.
I would try to get some therapy from a psychologist who has experience with autistic adults like yourself - they are trained for this sort of situation and can help you ground yourself quickly.
Nothing has actually changed after all - so why let it get to you. Learn about it (there are plenty of resources here), read up on it if you are a reader and look through discussion threads here that you can relate to. This will fill in a lot of the blanks for you.
As for connecting to others on the spectrum - you'll find loads here. Join in the discussions and in no time you will have some low maintenance friends here.
Thank you Iain, I have recently started therapy with a therapist who has lots of experience with autistic adults, this has been really helpful.
Learning about it is a great suggestion - I have been doing lots of this and it has really helped.
Exploring the discussions has been super helpful too - it has definitely helped me feel less alone.