• Replies 9 replies
  • Subscribers 10 subscribers
  • Views 1503 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

Newly diagnosed and struggling

maehart

To start I don't usually post online anywhere but I am really struggling, in need of advice or just some reassurance I don't know. I am 24, F, diagnosed two months ago. I have struggled with my mental health forever (anxiety, depression etc) but my life is getting smaller and smaller and I am so scared I'm not going to get out of this. I have so much anxiety  all the time, I barely leave my room let alone my house. I feel nauseous and can't eat properly. I work 2days a week that sometimes i cannot mange without getting overwhelmed and leaving work early, I am in the process for applying to PIP but am very worried about what my future looks like with the current direction its going. I see friends maybe once  a month, the rest of the time I don't even really message anyone I can go days without talking to anyone. I am incredibly lonely and just feel myself regressing so much. I used to have a pretty full life, work full time spend my weekends with friends, go on holiday. I am so scared of people and feel I am constantly in trouble, having to explain justify and apologise for my actions (or lack thereof) to everyone in my life. I just feel so uncomfortable all the time.

Parents

  • Welcome to the community  Slight smile

    You’re not alone with how you’re feeling, and what you’re experiencing is something many of us autistic people can relate to. It sounds like you’re in a really tough time right now, but reaching out is a big step, and it shows that you want things to get better.

    It’s understandable to feel scared and exhausted when life feels like it’s shrinking, but please know that this doesn’t mean it will stay this way forever. The adjustment period after a diagnosis can be really difficult… it’s a lot to process emotionally and practically, especially when you’re also dealing with anxiety, depression, and overwhelm. It does get better though as you begin to learn more about yourself, what autism means for you, and how to manage the difficulties. 

    I know when I’m struggling, it helps to focus on small, manageable steps rather than trying to fix everything at once. Even things like standing outside for a few minutes or sending a message to a friend, even just to say hello, can start to make a difference. Over time, these small steps can add up and help you feel more comfortable with yourself. Keep interacting on here too and learning from other autistic people in this forum, as it really does help. 

    Applying for PIP is a great idea. it’s not an easy process, but getting the support can relieve some pressure. You might also want to consider going to your GP and asking for some counselling.  

    Please don’t be too hard on yourself for where you’re at right now. You’ve been through a lot, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. It will get easier. 

Reply

  • Welcome to the community  Slight smile

    You’re not alone with how you’re feeling, and what you’re experiencing is something many of us autistic people can relate to. It sounds like you’re in a really tough time right now, but reaching out is a big step, and it shows that you want things to get better.

    It’s understandable to feel scared and exhausted when life feels like it’s shrinking, but please know that this doesn’t mean it will stay this way forever. The adjustment period after a diagnosis can be really difficult… it’s a lot to process emotionally and practically, especially when you’re also dealing with anxiety, depression, and overwhelm. It does get better though as you begin to learn more about yourself, what autism means for you, and how to manage the difficulties. 

    I know when I’m struggling, it helps to focus on small, manageable steps rather than trying to fix everything at once. Even things like standing outside for a few minutes or sending a message to a friend, even just to say hello, can start to make a difference. Over time, these small steps can add up and help you feel more comfortable with yourself. Keep interacting on here too and learning from other autistic people in this forum, as it really does help. 

    Applying for PIP is a great idea. it’s not an easy process, but getting the support can relieve some pressure. You might also want to consider going to your GP and asking for some counselling.  

    Please don’t be too hard on yourself for where you’re at right now. You’ve been through a lot, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. It will get easier. 

Children
No Data