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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

  • Hi Flohusband93

     I found out just over a month or so ago. I've been up and down about it too though feel it's for the best over all that I do now know . Ive struggled with feeling how you describe too and i find it passes with a day or 2 of retreating and doing gentle things like warm baths / a walk in a beautiful natural place or snuggling up with a warm drink, hot water bottle and a book or a favourite film. Since my diagnosis im just starting to find already that im self-advocating better, gradually. Its not always easy but its worth it. Im finding my feet.. I'm looking for some more work too and just turned down an offer of a job that I know I'll burn out doing even though i could do with the money. I'm trying to keep the faith that I will gradually find more work that suits me and i can sustain. I work self-employed a little too - as a gardener but it's not very well paid.  I was questioning autism for years only couldn't accept it because others had put doubts in my mind. I got to the point I just needed to be sure. Connecting in here is a good place to start  - there are some really thoughtful and supportive members.

    If you need more support then perhaps speak to your GP ? Maybe access neurodiverse informed therapy - I've find this helpful. There is a member in here who writes 'taking it one memory at a time' in relation to a later in life diagnosis - like just take it one step at a time. Please be kind to yourself and do gentle things that help make you feel cared for. Care for yourself as you would a dear friend.  I hope you are finding ways to stay warm and nourished during winter and getting out everyday to get a dose of light -  even when cloudy. The light is gradually returning now. Do you enjoy reading? That's my main way to get by at this time of the year. Best wishes to you and please stay in touch with the community on here Slight smile

Reply

  • Hi Flohusband93

     I found out just over a month or so ago. I've been up and down about it too though feel it's for the best over all that I do now know . Ive struggled with feeling how you describe too and i find it passes with a day or 2 of retreating and doing gentle things like warm baths / a walk in a beautiful natural place or snuggling up with a warm drink, hot water bottle and a book or a favourite film. Since my diagnosis im just starting to find already that im self-advocating better, gradually. Its not always easy but its worth it. Im finding my feet.. I'm looking for some more work too and just turned down an offer of a job that I know I'll burn out doing even though i could do with the money. I'm trying to keep the faith that I will gradually find more work that suits me and i can sustain. I work self-employed a little too - as a gardener but it's not very well paid.  I was questioning autism for years only couldn't accept it because others had put doubts in my mind. I got to the point I just needed to be sure. Connecting in here is a good place to start  - there are some really thoughtful and supportive members.

    If you need more support then perhaps speak to your GP ? Maybe access neurodiverse informed therapy - I've find this helpful. There is a member in here who writes 'taking it one memory at a time' in relation to a later in life diagnosis - like just take it one step at a time. Please be kind to yourself and do gentle things that help make you feel cared for. Care for yourself as you would a dear friend.  I hope you are finding ways to stay warm and nourished during winter and getting out everyday to get a dose of light -  even when cloudy. The light is gradually returning now. Do you enjoy reading? That's my main way to get by at this time of the year. Best wishes to you and please stay in touch with the community on here Slight smile

Children
  • in reply to JennyB

    Thanks for your lovely reply <3 Yeah I get you, I definitely need hope to find work I can stick at and thrive in, but it's been very hard over the last 10 years as I've really struggled with my mental health. 

    I spoke to the GP yesterday but honestly, I was a bit disappointed at what she said. It really sounded like there wasn't much on offer. They've booked me into a mental health nurse although I've not always found them effective, so we'll see. Am looking at autistic support groups, I feel like the best cure would be meeting people to talk to who understand. 

    And yes love to read, am reading Wuthering Heights at the moment!