We have a strong family history of autism and I was officially referred by the GP for a diagnosis in January at 36 after a long, consistent history of symptoms and repeated cycles of burnout. I’m also in therapy at the moment.
I tend to live my life in cycles. I will start something new and have no issues with it for a while, then it gets on top of me, I struggle for a few months (or longer) then go into burnout which can last anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months (so far). Then I recover and it all starts again.
My issue at the moment is driving - someone on a mobility scooter pulled off the pavement into my path earlier in the week without looking and while I missed them, it really shook me up and now driving makes me feel sick and I’ve had a couple of panic attacks this week over it. I tend to hyper focus on things too which doesn’t help.
Anyway, I’m rambling, but I’m self employed and have had to make some changes to my business as I don’t feel safe driving in certain areas feeling as panicky as I do. I’m already on medication.
Has anyone else experienced anything like this and what did you do? I’m currently driving my “safe” roads only and walking everywhere else unless someone can accompany me. I’m quite happy doing this for now but I’m aware it could really limit me long term which I don’t want.
Not sure if I really want advice or just to get it all out but I’m struggling. I also went into burnout last October/November time and suspect I haven’t fully recovered.