I think I might have Autism.

[Bookaholic73]

I don’t really know how to start.

ky oldest son was diagnosed as having Aspergers when he was 15 (7 years ago) and until that time I’d never even considered autism for him or myself.

Now I’m really starting to wonder if I have it too. I find his sensory issues easy to deal with because I have the same preferences such as avoiding harsh lighting, aversion to loud noises, not good with temperature, food texture issues etc.

Most of all, I have always thought I was the odd one out among my friends. I have 2 friends who I have known for 20 years, and they are the only friends I have.
I find the complexities of friendship groups really confusing, although I long for a good group of girlfriends.

I know that the internet can’t diagnose me, but I’m wondering if I actually have autism.

I’m not sure if I’d want to get a diagnosis or not, as I don’t really see the point. But I feel like I’ve finally realised why I have always felt different from everyone else.

I seem to be at a similar stage to you. Kids have grown up and I feel I have time to think about myself and why I'm still not able to be me in front of certain people.

I posted recently 'How do I know if I have ASD'. I'm not sure whether to persue a possible diagnosis or not.

I realised after my eldest was diagnosed too. They told me all his issues and I was thinking "erm, I'm exactly the same".
I did go for diagnosis but I know lots don't feel the need to.
Welcome to the club!

@ofwarren do you mind me asking why you decided to go for a diagnosis?
I’m pretty sure I won’t bother, as I can’t really see any benefits to it, but maybe I have t considered it properly.

@20DigitCombination Does anyone in your family have Autism, or did you come to the conclusion that you have it another way? Having the time now the kids are older is definitely something that has helped me focus on myself.

For me I kept struggling with burnout in the workplace and it was really affecting my mental health. I wanted to see if there was a reason rather than me just not being able to cope. It would mean the ability to ask for accommodations in the workplace. As it happens, I've not worked since. Mainly due to caring for my disabled son though.

It's really helped me to understand who I am and why I act the way I do. I've tried hard to unmask as much as possible and my mental health is much better for it.

@Bookaholic73 I think my oldest daughter might be. I suggested it to her CAMHS psychiatrist when she was younger but they dismissed my concerns as she had friends, took part in social activities and had eye contact etc. Of course, they didn't see the meltdowns or realise that she was clever enough to know the 'right' answers!!

I was talking to her last weekend about autism and asked if she thought I might have it and she reeled off a load of traits at me!

I forgot to say that I've also worked with autistic children and seem to understand their needs better than others.

Interesting.

I wonder if there is a connection?

Currently narked by neurotypicals opining on autistic children with no knowledge.