• Replies 6 replies
  • Subscribers 74 subscribers
  • Views 119 views
  • Users 0 members are here
Options
Related
Hints and tips
  • To quote someone's message, first select/highlight the relevant text, and then use the Quote button that appears
  • To "mention" someone, type @ followed by the start of the forum name, and choose from the list; that person will get a notification of being mentioned

Hi

Jo1978

I am Jo, Inwas diagnosed with Autism 2 weeks ago, I always knew I was different and never felt like I belonged, but I didn’t suspect Autism. My daughter is 11 and I have known since she was little that she was autistic, we both went down the right to choose so her assessment shouldn’t be long. I seem to be struggling more now with household tasks. I used to work and was a support worker to adults with learning disabilities and Autism for 9 years. I had no idea I was Autistic myself though, I struggle with people and feel scared in social situations.

  • Good afternoon from America, Jo1978!

    I went down the journey of getting diagnosed not long after my first daughter (who was later also diagnosed with AuDHD) was born. So us discovering I have it helped us to recognize it early in her life.

    I also work with folk with disabilities! I help them find employment. However, I am trying to ease my way out of the job since I’m seeing a trend that it’s causing me some nasty depressive spells. Still, it is a noble job and I do feel like I do a decent job. If you ever need advice on looking for more work, let me know! I can’t help a ton because I’m from the States and know practically nothing about the UK, but I can probably offer some small universal tips and tricks that I’ve learned on this job.

    Jo1978 said:
    I seem to be struggling more now with household tasks.

    That sounds a bit like you might be facing some skill regression or burnout, both of which are surprisingly common after getting an Autism diagnosis. The biggest advice I can give if you are going through either of those is to be kind to yourself. As an Autistic parent, that’s easier said than done, but remember that you cannot help others if you are struggling yourself. It’s like on an airplane: If the plane is crashing, you’re supposed to secure a mask on your own face before anyone else’s. Same goes for self-care. Take care of yourself and stop blaming yourself for failing, then you’ll be ready to help others.

  • Hi Jo, welcome to the community! I wish you find here like minded people. There are quite many stories of people who work as teachers or support workers, work with autistic people and they themselves find out suddenly,  that they are also autistic. Did you have any 'light bulb' moments? 

  • Hello Jo1978, 

    Your experience of post-diagnosis does appear quite common. After my diagnosis this year, I felt rather empty and a bit lost. However, people usually report that after some weeks/months that things start to return to normal, well a new and different normal.  I found I spent a fair bit of time reflecting upon my past 70+ years, from the viewpoint of someone with autism. So much made sense for the first time ever. Of course, the past could not be changed. Now I focus on what I can change. 

    Just take things slowly and be kind to yourself.  

    Best wishes,
    Oscar  

  • Hi Jo1978, I hope your diagnosis brings you answers, and hopefully you'll be able to share and figure it out with your daughter too! Just take it easy with yourself!