Have to Volunteer, Will Meltdown

[Late-to-the-Party]

For one of my college classes we have to volunteer 30-40 hours by teaching a 2 hour art class to homeless clients at a shelter. I probably (hopefully?) will be able to handle this in the coming weeks. However, today is an optional, but HIGHLY recommended, 2 hour workshop where we would learn how to run the classes.

I cannot handle this today. This past week has been uncharacteristically busy, and I have barely had an hour to myself between classes and work. I honestly don't think I have worked so much in such a short span of time in my entire life. On Friday, I practically had every hour of my day occupied in some way. I have already had several mini-meltdowns throughout the week. Today was supposed to be my one day off, but I go the email informing me of the workshop last night. Normally, I could handle being in a room full of strangers, but I am simply exhausted. My parents are insisting that I go despite my telling them that I will have a full meltdown.

My mom does not know about my Aspergers and thinks that I only have long-term depression and my dad knows about it but has not researched it enough. I'm planning on telling my mom after I get an official diagnosis, as she will be more likely to accept it from a professional. Back to today, they are being very condescending and dismissive about my protests and worries. I know they think that I can handle it and that I am just throwing a tantrum to get out of going, but I am not.

I have already had one full meltdown today due to their unwillingness to listen. I am afraid that when I do go to the workshop I will have another meltdown and be banned from the premises. I have one hour to either convince my parents that my meltdowns are a legitimate issue or calm myself down enough to get through the workshop. Any advice?

 

[Judge]

When it comes to conditions like clinical depression, OCD and Aspergers, don't expect people around you to understand or relate well enough to be truly helpful. You need to "put the cart in front of the horse" and get a professional diagnosis ASAP. From there at least they are much more likely to believe you and help you adjust your life accordingly.

But it may also involve you being proactive about your own life. Consider the course of education you are on, and whether or not it is a good fit for your autism. I didn't know any better and pursued work for two decades that was probably not in my best interest. Had I known at the time I could have possibly found something that was a better fit given my socialization issues.

It's not a crime to admit at times that you may have bitten off more than you can chew.