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Newly diagnosed

A.Sarah93

Hello All,

I am newly diagnosed at the age of 33. I feel like a fraud and no longer know who I am and what I stand for. It all started this year when I attended a dyslexia assessment. The assessor highlighted some traits of ADHD and autism that I showed and recommended I refer myself for an assessment. I did just that and have since been diagnosed with both. I thought I would be happy to finally have all of the answers, it turns out it is the complete opposite. I have lost all of my confidence, I am currently signed off work due to burnout. The thought of socialising in any form just fills me with anxiety to the point I feel people will just see my autism for what it is. 

I have no support network right now, the few people I do know do not understand me and how my brain works. If I share something, my comment is disregarded and compared to everyone being a little bit like that. So that leaves me irritated and not wanting to share my insights with anyone. I am struggling with the fear that when I do decide to disclose my diagnosis to others I will be stereotyped and classed as making it up and following the trends.

I went into my autism assessment thinking I wouldn't be diagnosed and was completely shocked when I was. I then started analysing my whole life and seeing every autistic trait for what it was in that moment. I spent days crying and trying to process it all. I am currently researching and trying to connect with others for a better understanding of myself, so I can build my confidence again. I am just finding life very confusing and challenging right now. I am hoping for better days ahead. 

Parents
  • A.Sarah93 said:
    I feel like a fraud and no longer know who I am and what I stand for.

    Hi,   and welcome to the community Bouquet. It may take a little time to receive replies as people access this site at varying times. The site is moderated and you will receive good advice from the mods - they are volunteers, so again that will take a bit of time!

    Meanwhile, what you write will be commonplace experiences on this forume, so breathe deeply and accept that it will take time to find your balance and re-focus after diagnosis. It's the same for all of us! You'll find empathy and kindness here, whatever the reactions of others. 

    A.Sarah93 said:
    I am just finding life very confusing and challenging right now. I am hoping for better days ahead. 

    It certainly is very de-stabilising after being diagnosed. I remember that time well. But, it's a process of discovery; takes time to absorb and learn about your new self. You are right - there ARE better days ahead. But, as with any new skill, once you learn about your new 'landscape' it is an exciting place to be, with many new things you can look forward to experiencing. Best wishes.

Reply
  • A.Sarah93 said:
    I feel like a fraud and no longer know who I am and what I stand for.

    Hi,   and welcome to the community Bouquet. It may take a little time to receive replies as people access this site at varying times. The site is moderated and you will receive good advice from the mods - they are volunteers, so again that will take a bit of time!

    Meanwhile, what you write will be commonplace experiences on this forume, so breathe deeply and accept that it will take time to find your balance and re-focus after diagnosis. It's the same for all of us! You'll find empathy and kindness here, whatever the reactions of others. 

    A.Sarah93 said:
    I am just finding life very confusing and challenging right now. I am hoping for better days ahead. 

    It certainly is very de-stabilising after being diagnosed. I remember that time well. But, it's a process of discovery; takes time to absorb and learn about your new self. You are right - there ARE better days ahead. But, as with any new skill, once you learn about your new 'landscape' it is an exciting place to be, with many new things you can look forward to experiencing. Best wishes.

Children
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