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Depression and possible Autism/Aspergers

Bigbro

Hello, I'm new here but I've been researching and learning from this site and community for quite some time now and have come to the conclusion that my brother could be somewhere on the spectrum.

He's 31 and has always been a fairly lonely guy and never had many friends. Since reading these forums I have noticed he has a number of traits. Now, I could be completely wrong about this but it might be something worth exploring.

The problem is that he is currently suffering with quite severe depression. This all came to a head a few years ago when he came out and told us he's gay. I'm also gay and came out when I was about 18 but my mother didn't react well to the news so he's kept it to himself for about 10 years. I can't imagine what that's done to him and I feel so sorry for him.

He's being treated for the depression and has counselling but my question to you guys is whether the depression should be dealt with before bringing up the possibility of him being on the spectrum. On one hand, if he is on the spectrum, it may help him to understand how he's feeling. On the other, it could confuse things and make things worse.

I'd really appreciate any thoughts, ideas and suggestions on this and if you have any questions, please do ask.

Thanks for reading.

Parents

  • Hi Longman,

    Thanks for your reply. I'd never heard that people with communication issues were 'prescribed' the gay scene. Very interesting. I suppose in theory it's a great idea and it's often the reason so many straight girls like to go to gay bars and clubs. They can be a lot more civilised and friendly but at the same time they can be horrible places if you're not very confident or sure of yourself. I have considered inviting him for a night out with me but I don't think he'd feel very comfortable at all.

    It's also interesting that people on the spectrum are more likely to identify as gay. I wonder if it's because they are less conscious of the social implications being gay can have so are more comfortable being open about it (maybe). Neuro typical people may keep it to themselves fearing the way others might see them. Perhaps that will change over time as homosexuality becomes more and more acceptable.

    I think you're right, homosexuality needs to be discussed far more openly. I live in Brighton and it's a very safe little bubble of open mindedness and free thinking but I'm well aware it's very unique and the rest of the world has a lot of catching up to do (my mother included)

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  • Hi Longman,

    Thanks for your reply. I'd never heard that people with communication issues were 'prescribed' the gay scene. Very interesting. I suppose in theory it's a great idea and it's often the reason so many straight girls like to go to gay bars and clubs. They can be a lot more civilised and friendly but at the same time they can be horrible places if you're not very confident or sure of yourself. I have considered inviting him for a night out with me but I don't think he'd feel very comfortable at all.

    It's also interesting that people on the spectrum are more likely to identify as gay. I wonder if it's because they are less conscious of the social implications being gay can have so are more comfortable being open about it (maybe). Neuro typical people may keep it to themselves fearing the way others might see them. Perhaps that will change over time as homosexuality becomes more and more acceptable.

    I think you're right, homosexuality needs to be discussed far more openly. I live in Brighton and it's a very safe little bubble of open mindedness and free thinking but I'm well aware it's very unique and the rest of the world has a lot of catching up to do (my mother included)

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