Published on 12, July, 2020
Just wanted to say hi. I was recently diagnosed ASD at age 54. I can really identify with what I have been reading on here. I have survived 54 years, just about, without a diagnosis or any assistance. I am feeling relieved to have the diagnosis but at the same time very overwhelmed. It seems to be taking over my life. I want to be able to accept my differences and not be held back by them or obsessed by them. I seem to have been given hundreds of different websites etc to look at, but having discovered this community today I can honestly say it's been the most helpful place. Just to know that there are so many other adults out there feeling the same as me and having the same life experiences. I feel so much better for this. I have come to accept being alone, but it's nice to be able to connect in some way with other people who understand. I am hoping that in time my diagnosis will give me the understanding of my life and the positivity that I hoped for. I'm grateful that so many people have shared their experiences here.
Hi and welcome to the community. It's good to hear you've already found being here helpful.
It does seem to be an autistic tendency to want to research everything post diagnosis. I know I did and it became all consuming for a time. It could be said that it still is, judging by how much time I spend here!
I would recommend trying to focus on the autistic led websites and publications at first. A lot of the stuff that isn't autistic led can be stereotypical, pathological in nature and sometimes plain wrong.
I found the Aucademy website and YouTube videos helpful.https://aucademy.co.uk/starting-your-autistic-discovery-journey/
Another more recent autistic led site seems a good place to start. https://autismunderstood.co.uk/ It is written with younger people in mind but I think it is suitable for anyone of any age to learn the basics.
In terms of books I would recommend seeking out content by Dr Luke Beardon, a senior lecturer in autism. In particular his book on avoiding anxiety in autistic adults, if anxiety is an issue for you.
I've probably overwhelmed you even more. No rush, you've got the rest of your life to take it all in.
Hi
Thank you for your reply and all your advice. I am definitely keen to read autistic led information. I am struggling with people who have 'studied' autistic people telling me how to feel, etc. I am going to try to stop myself reading and watching things endlessly though. I have woken up feeling much more positive today due to the responses I have had on here. It was a massive thing for me to register and reach out. I'm very grateful that I did though.
Thank you.