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Coping with Change and being Alone

NAS89229

Hello,

I was wondering if anyone has any tips for coping with changes. I am 28, live at home with my parents, but every time they go away I have increased levels of anxiety and struggle with the transition of being home alone. I was told that I need to toughen up, however this isn't something I think I can just change about myself. So I wondered if anyone else ever feels the same, and if anything, what they do to help make periods like this a little easier? 

Many thanks :) 

  • Hello,

    I am also 28 and live with my parents. Don't let anyone saying that you've got to toughen up get you down. People adapt differently to being on their own. I have only had the house to myself for three nights, in 28 years.

  • In terms of practicalities for periods like this.

    I find having lists/written timetables of things to do really helpful. It means I have something else to do and helps slow the paralysis that often happen when I experience a change. It also helps avoid forgetting to do stuff like eat and drink.

    Breathing exercises help me when experiencing moments of really intense anxiety. And I make sure to have some creative tasks regularly.

  • I would suggest getting a therapist with experience of autists and working through the issues with them - everyone is different in how they respond so this should give you a range of techniquest to try with support and chances to feedback your experiences to develop a mechanism to cope better.

    This is a very common autistic trait which can be quite crippling for some.

    Personally I developed a technique of mindfulness for rationalising the change and its impact as well as meditation for controlling the anxiety. You may not have the same results which is why I would recommend starting with an experienced therapist to start with.

    I would expect to pay £40-50 and hour and you will probably need multiple sessions.