Hi I’m new here, recently diagnosed, feeling very overwhelmed with how to explain it to friends and family. And what to say, also learning about who I am and slowly unmasking. Has anyone got any tips or advice?? Thanks
Hi I’m new here, recently diagnosed, feeling very overwhelmed with how to explain it to friends and family. And what to say, also learning about who I am and slowly unmasking. Has anyone got any tips or advice?? Thanks
Hey and welcome Penguinfan 
I hope you find this community helpful and enjoyable to be part of.
You might like to check the National Autistic Society's page on Masking:
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/behaviour/masking
There's some really good information there.
Happy Tuesday.
Hi Penguinfan, welcome to the forums. Penguins and bunnies seem popular here so I think you are on the right place 
my tips would be to take things at a comfortable pace, there is no rush. And my other tip is to be kind to yourself….both not easy but worth trying….
Hello and welcome to the forum! 
I was in your position some years ago, but as I got to learn more about autism and myself, it got a lot easier! Now it just comes out naturally.
This might be something helpful for you to read:
You could also watch some videos on this topic, like this one:
Welcome to the forum. Overwhelm and confusion is very normal when finding out we're autistic. My advice would be to take your time and read, listen, research and talk about your experiences with other ND people here. You'll find a lot of us probably experience the same things and will be able to offer advice or just empathise with you and make you feel less alone and confused.
I'm sure a mod or a more helpful member will be along with some useful links from the NAS website.
