Newly diagnosed at 52 and struggling

Hello

I'm a 52 year old woman and recently diagnosed as autistic.  I feel so sad and angry and am struggling.  I've always known I was wrong and very different but just plodded along, tried to fit in.  

I've had depression, anxiety and OCD since I was 19 but with no real relief from medication. If medicine doesn't work what does?  I'm mourning the life I could have had if I'd had support all those years ago. I know times were different but I'm drowning in questions. Would I have stayed in my career longer, could I have saved my marriage, would my relationship with my 3 daughters be better, 2 of which are autistic?  The list is endless. 

Does the anger pass?  My GP has been brilliant but I'm cross with him. I've had numerous chats with him over the years.  Why didn't he pick up on it?  

What difference will the diagnosis make?  I feel too old for it to matter anymore.  My mind feels scrambled and if I'm honest I'm scared for the future. How do I know if my symptoms are due to depression, anxiety, autism, ocd or the menopause?

I just feel very alone.

Thank you

Parents
  • Hi I am sorry you feel sad and angry. It is difficult after diagnosis I know a lot of people post that on here and I also had a difficult year after my diagnosis in 2018. I am 57 now. 

    I haven't really got any answers for you but just wanted to say I relate to what you are saying and that it did get better for me after time. 

    This is a good forum with some really kind people on it so I am sure you will find some comfort from sharing with others who understand and have gone through this too.

    You will hopefully find that when you post on here you won't feel so alone.

    Take care. 

Reply
  • Hi I am sorry you feel sad and angry. It is difficult after diagnosis I know a lot of people post that on here and I also had a difficult year after my diagnosis in 2018. I am 57 now. 

    I haven't really got any answers for you but just wanted to say I relate to what you are saying and that it did get better for me after time. 

    This is a good forum with some really kind people on it so I am sure you will find some comfort from sharing with others who understand and have gone through this too.

    You will hopefully find that when you post on here you won't feel so alone.

    Take care. 

Children