Friendships are hard and post-diagnosis

Hey everyone, 

I am recently diagnosed autistic (have known my whole life but was diagnosed with OCD instead). Since getting my diagnosis I have found it really difficult to mask, which in a lot of ways is really good but in other ways it’s making me realise that actually I don’t really have any friends who know the real me. 

I’m 26 and have 0 social life, I basically just go to work and uni then come home again… I was wondering how you all find adult friendships when being autistic, as I often find them quite draining/ confusing but also I feel lonely. 

I’d love if there was a big group just for autistic women to make pals in, and I’m going to have a look at some groups in my local area I can maybe attend if they are online, as getting public transport can put me off going out really easily. 

Anyway, this is my first post on here and I hope you all have a lovely day :) 

Parents
  • Hi Poetchi. I'm 40 diagnosed in the last month. I don't think I've ever been myself without a mask on. I only a handful of friends & since my diagnosis the handful is getting smaller. I'm only myself when I'm alone. Life is exhausting, but I find this community is a really good outlet to chat with people who genuinely understand where you're coming from.

    Nice to meet you.
    Joey.

Reply
  • Hi Poetchi. I'm 40 diagnosed in the last month. I don't think I've ever been myself without a mask on. I only a handful of friends & since my diagnosis the handful is getting smaller. I'm only myself when I'm alone. Life is exhausting, but I find this community is a really good outlet to chat with people who genuinely understand where you're coming from.

    Nice to meet you.
    Joey.

Children
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