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I was on that difficult to deal with pile for years and it was a veritable nightmare. The majority of my stress came from my family as they didn't understand what I was going through. The vast majority of my family understands the diagnosis(I have 37 cousins and multiple aunties and uncles) but my brother and father either doesn't understand what autism is or flat out doesn't believe that I have it. Anyway that another story. Going forward the fella who diagnosed me gave me a leaflet for autism in mind Sunderland and told me I should get in touch with them

I can imagine!     I've pretty much worked on my own for most of my life - although working in a clean-room for over 3 years with artificial light and air was not too much fun.

What do you do now?

Well done that counsellor!  If only one of the many MH professionals I saw had twigged there was a possibility for me, instead of dumping me on the too difficult to deal with pile and leaving me to suffer.  I've had to figure it out myself and then try to source an assessment.

I hope that helps you to ease your path now and adapt to a life that suits you better/ get the support you need.  Have they offered you any follow up to help you bend your head around it and plan a way forward?

Prior to doingnos it was horrendous. I worked in a car factory replete with bright light and high pitched noises, which were the main triggers for my autism

I was diagnosed back in 2008 - I'm completely ok with it - I have some social issues when I'm under unfair pressure or stress but I have memory and technical skills that make me very self-sufficient.     I'm a Chartered Engineer - super-nerd    

For various reasons, I managed to retire early so I have control of my daily life.

How has it been for you?

If you don't mind me asking, how long have you been diagnosed and how do you cope with it 

Mine was similar - I thought I was doing ok but a friend's wife mentioned I had all the traits - a private diagnosis followed and here we are.......

I'm a techy-nerd - like Sheldon Cooper or Mr Data.      My wife is into history - mainly Roman, Egyptian and UK history - she;s joined the local history group to meet more friends into it.

Thanks for replying. I didn't actually go for a diagnosis, my councillor asked me what my interests were and when I told him that I was interested/obsessed with English history circa 1327-1377 he asked me if I have ever been tested for autism. Then I was tested and was diagnosed 

Congratulations and welcome to the club - I made it into my 40s before diagnosis.so it's not uncommon.

What made you go for a diagnosis?    How is it affecting you?

You may find it takes a while before you can get your head around it - and there's a lot of life-processing to do.

The good news is you're young enough to make some positive changes for your future.