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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 there.  I'm sorry you feel so low at the moment, but there are many possible reactions to the diagnosis. And all of them are "normal".  And it is A LOT to take in.

    I think you are on the right lines in identifying that you need a support group of some sort.  They can be very useful both in unpicking the meaning of the diagnosis and in finding solutions to every day Autistic practical problems.

    I hope in time you find some positives (Justin is right, there are many) to being Autistic and some solutions for the down sides of living in a world not constructed with us in mind, but take your time and be kind to yourself while you process this. 

    One tip: if you consider therapy at any time, insist it's properly Autism informed.  It tends only to be much use to us if delivered by someone who is either Autistic or knows a lot about Autism.  They need to understand our cognitive and communication styles.

Reply

  • HI there.  I'm sorry you feel so low at the moment, but there are many possible reactions to the diagnosis. And all of them are "normal".  And it is A LOT to take in.

    I think you are on the right lines in identifying that you need a support group of some sort.  They can be very useful both in unpicking the meaning of the diagnosis and in finding solutions to every day Autistic practical problems.

    I hope in time you find some positives (Justin is right, there are many) to being Autistic and some solutions for the down sides of living in a world not constructed with us in mind, but take your time and be kind to yourself while you process this. 

    One tip: if you consider therapy at any time, insist it's properly Autism informed.  It tends only to be much use to us if delivered by someone who is either Autistic or knows a lot about Autism.  They need to understand our cognitive and communication styles.

Children
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