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Diagnosed Yesterday!

Batfink1

Hi Universe , I  am a 51 year old Woman, and I have just been diagnosed yesterday, I have mixed emotions, the first was relief as now my life and all that has happened makes sense, second reaction I now know I have this condition for sure and it makes everything hard.

I am lucky I have a supportive partner, I don’t know anyone with Autism apart from myself, so I’m on here to meet people like me, as I can feel I am alone with all of this.

I feel like I am standing in front of a huge signpost, with a hundreds of directions, and I am not sure what to do next, do I tell anyone, do I have to tell anyone like the bank etc, where to get help if I need it,  is there anything I need to do now straight away, the list goes on.

Anyway hello to all, any thoughts or advice is greatly appreciated.

Blush

Parents

  • Hi and welcome.

    I am a 57 year old man and I was diagnosed about a month ago. Like you I don't know anyone else who is autistic. I am also lucky enough to have a very supportive partner.

    The first thing I would say is pause and take a breath. It will all work out, even if you don't know how yet.

    I am new to this forum but I have found everyone to be kind, patient and supportive. You are not alone. If you have questions ask them. You will get lots of good advice here. 

    There is no requirement to tell anyone and who you tell is entirely your decision. For me, the important thing is that I need to feel comfortable with who I tell and how much I want to disclose. I am sorry to hear your family have not been receptive but that may change. They might be shocked by the news. If you receive negative feedback it is important to remember it is not because of you. You cannot control anybody's feelings but your own. I know this through bitter experience. You simply need to deal with what is, not what should be.

    To be honest I am winging it a bit myself, but that's okay. I am new to this, as are you, and it will take time to adjust. As much time as you need.

    Research is an excellent idea, but again at your pace. I was advised not to rush in and overwhelm myself with information. Good advice.

    To end on a saying. If you do not know who you are, the question becomes who do you want to be?

    Take care and stay positive.

Reply

  • Hi and welcome.

    I am a 57 year old man and I was diagnosed about a month ago. Like you I don't know anyone else who is autistic. I am also lucky enough to have a very supportive partner.

    The first thing I would say is pause and take a breath. It will all work out, even if you don't know how yet.

    I am new to this forum but I have found everyone to be kind, patient and supportive. You are not alone. If you have questions ask them. You will get lots of good advice here. 

    There is no requirement to tell anyone and who you tell is entirely your decision. For me, the important thing is that I need to feel comfortable with who I tell and how much I want to disclose. I am sorry to hear your family have not been receptive but that may change. They might be shocked by the news. If you receive negative feedback it is important to remember it is not because of you. You cannot control anybody's feelings but your own. I know this through bitter experience. You simply need to deal with what is, not what should be.

    To be honest I am winging it a bit myself, but that's okay. I am new to this, as are you, and it will take time to adjust. As much time as you need.

    Research is an excellent idea, but again at your pace. I was advised not to rush in and overwhelm myself with information. Good advice.

    To end on a saying. If you do not know who you are, the question becomes who do you want to be?

    Take care and stay positive.

Children