Hello

[Eythora]

I was researching my thesis topic when I came across some research about females with level 1 ASD ("Asperger's"), and how it often manifests differently than in males. I spoke to my psychologist about it (I have biweekly appointments for PTSD, with group therapy in between), and then met with a psychometrician. So, here I am. 29 years old with Asperger's.

I kind of knew it was not hypochondria or "second-year syndrome" because reading about it, and then doing further research felt more like a revelation and a lightbulb moment.

I am not upset or panicked or anything. It feels like a relief, which is perhaps odd.

Not exactly sure how friends and family will react. I am not sure whether I will share this outside of my parents. I also do not know what impact this could have on my long-term goals in psychology. I have to process this, I suppose, and then work on the "what's next."

 

[Isadoorian]

Welcome to the Forums! I hope you make new friends and enjoy your stay in the process!

Our very own Autistamatic who runs a youtube channel of the same name, actually has a video on "What's next"

 

[Fino]

From what I've seen here, relief is a normal reaction.

 

[Bolletje]

Welcome! I felt a huge surge of relief on my adult diagnosis as well. Relief, and sadness for not knowing sooner.

 

[RosaViolet]

You come to the right place
I first heard of Asperger's when my elder child was diagnosed. It was an occasion to review and reframe my views about conditions and disability. I also took that as a chance to frame and shape my family's views.
When I was diagnosed it was a liberating and empowering thing.

My youngest was diagnosed more recently and I found revisiting it all helpful.
I listened to Sarah Hendrickx, she commented that many autistic women have interest in and study psychology.
It's a really comprehensive introduction about women on the spectrum. It's not short, so you might take in chunks. Some of her comments in my view refer to less high functioning people on the emotional/relationship side, I don't recognise myself in everything, but it is interesting.

 

[Sarah S]

Warm welkome to the forums

 

[Nitro]

Hi Eythora

 

[Gracey]

Hello

 

[tree]

 

[Major Tom]

Welcome to the forums!

 

[Tom]

There are already many on the spectrum in the special education field, and many with mental health conditions in the mental health field. Personal insight and experience can be a strength and help one be quite good at it. Like anyone we have weak areas also. The key there I think is becoming aware of what they are and always remaining open to constructive input from others.

 

[clg114]

Welcome to Autism Forums!