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Just been diagnosed and feeling sad - what support can I get?

flohusband93

Hi there

Hope we are all doing OK in this crazy world. 

I (32F) have just been diagnosed with autism and finding it to be a big thing to come to terms with. On top of struggling to find work, feeling low and getting used to the idea that I'm autistic, I've been feeling very overwhelmed and sad. It feels like a massive thing to start reappraising your whole life and I've been having low mood and some suicidal ideation, although no plans to act on it. 

Is this normal? It's a lot for me, and I'm just starting to find my way with it. I feel like I really need a support group of people who are also autistic who would also understand what it's like to be like this.

Thanks

A dysregulated and emotional female

Parents

  • Hello flohusband93, ive just been diagnosed within the last 2 weeks and have felt the exact same as you have suicidal ideation very low mood and really not wanting to do anything its so hard to come to terms with im 21 years old and really struggling i dont really know what to do too im diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety and Depression 

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  • Hello flohusband93, ive just been diagnosed within the last 2 weeks and have felt the exact same as you have suicidal ideation very low mood and really not wanting to do anything its so hard to come to terms with im 21 years old and really struggling i dont really know what to do too im diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety and Depression 

Children
  • in reply to AdxmP7

    Good morning from America AdxmP7 (and flohusband93),

    ASD/ADHD/GAD/Depression here. Also have suffered from suicidal ideation, though not directly related to my ASD diagnosis. Right now I’m pretty stable, so here’s some recommendations I have:

    1) Therapy. It has really helped me, though it’s not for everyone. It’s worth trying, though. One big note to keep in mind is if your first experience with therapy is not helpful, try another one. Not all therapists or even therapy techniques are the same.

    2) Support system. Get a system together. I have it that if I am feeling suicidal I have to call my wife, if not her then my friend, if not him 988 (a hotline in America), if not them then I have to check in at a hospital. Having a plan in place and communicating with your supports that you may need them is really important when you are suffering with SI.

    3) From what I’ve read on here it is common to feel a wide variety of feelings when you first get diagnosed. Grief and regret is very often felt. However, you may also feel relief and acceptance over time. I just want you to know that it is okay to feel sad, that’s not unusual. Hopefully as you grow more aware of your condition you come to accept it and use it to help you grow.

  • in reply to AdxmP7

    I totally get you. It's such a life changing diagnosis and I just feel so sad all the time, so I get you. I'm glad you got yours and you have 20s ahead of you to figure out to live with it. I've spoken to my GP and the Papyrus helpline which have helped me feel a bit more grounded.