Published on 12, July, 2020
I have not been posting on the NAS forum since the new layout. I find change difficult and actually way preferred the previous lay out (does anyone here agree??).
Anyhow, thought I'd introduce myself because have not posted for such a long time.
I have a diagnosis of Asperger's but call myself autistic (under the new criteria, it'a all the same anyway). I am 30 years old and was diagnosed back in 2009, on the NHS, when I was 21, after receiving CBT for OCD that had not worked, and because I had long standing problems that had not been adequately explained: a history of being a loner, minimal and failed friendships, obsessive behaviour (interests and other), problems around needing to be in control and knowing what to expect, etc. I am beginning to become more aware also of how severely I am affected by noise, which affects my concentration and makes me feel very stressed.
I also have colour grapheme synaesthesia, but took my perceptions for granted until recently as assumed everyone saw as I did.
I enjoy reading complicated philosophy and psychology books, books about autism and nutrition, and I like cooking and food (a major interest area). I also enjoy raising awareness of autism via public speaking and writing blogs when I have the time.
I cannot work and am on benefits. Never been in a relationship. My co-existing OCD adds another layer of disability, and I have a very uneven skills profile, being proficient in some areas (words and reading, mainly), but struggle with organisation, overload, keeping things tidy, multitasking, etc.
Hi Hope
food to hear from you and hope you settle into the new forum.
welcome aboard x