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Hello!

Errmegerrd

New Member
My name is Meg. I joined here because I strongly suspect I fit on the autism spectrum, and would really like to connect with others to compare and discuss experiences. I don't have an official diagnosis, but plan to speak with my doctor about it tomorrow, and I'm hopeful. I took the AQ-10 and got a 10, and I've never related to anyone so much as the people who describe what their lives have been like living with HFA, particularly when diagnosis has been delayed until adulthood. I was diagnosed w/ ADHD, PTSD, GAD, and Depression in 2018, and have experienced a lot of healing and growth since gaining a better understanding of myself, but I haven't felt like those diagnoses fully capture the scope and essence of what the struggle of day-to-day life feels like for me--particularly in the areas of socializing and relationships. Once I started reading about HFA my whole life started making sense in a way I have never experienced.
 
Quite a few of us here are only Self Diagnosed, so don't feel out of place in that respect. And many also only figured it out later in life. The realization must be different for each individual but many do speak of the feeling of much suddenly making sense. Like not knowing your sight is bad and suddenly putting on corrective glasses.
 
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There is a powerful sense of closure when you feel understood.

When I first read about the spectrum, and also ADHD - it felt like I was reading my autobiography.

It's quite humbling, to go through life feeling out of place, and so misunderstood. Yet, to find something that describes you so concisely.

Of course, it is a spectrum for a reason - everyone's experiences will be unique. Whilst there are behavioural patterns, and commonalities with social and emotional issues - it's a unique journey for each of us.

It gives life a vibrancy. I think it can amplify the good times, and the bad. I think it bestows upon us some genuine talents and quirks, as well as various burdens.

Ed
 
Welcome. I have always identified as an introvert but I never felt that the trait fully explained my life's journey. Since discovering that both my brothers are on the spectrum I began to wonder. I rejected the idea that I might be too until recently after doing more research. As I learn more about females on the spectrum combined with my on-line test scores I am pretty sure that I am on the spectrum as well. Finally all the boxes are checked for me. My biggest concern right now is introducing the possibility of being on the spectrum to one of my daughters. Being on the spectrum fits her like a glove.
 
Hi Meg. I'd say you've come to the right place for all the right reasons.

Over the years I've come to the conclusion that constantly interacting with my own kind has been far more beneficial than being assessed by a Neurotypical medical professional or taking any particular battery of tests.

Welcome to AF.
 
I don't feel I have a disorder I'm just neurologically different,but I'm unique so what I am is not what you are ,that's where official diagnosis is useless it's centuries behind in helping me I'm not high functioning because the world that I was designed for has been destroyed, yet I'm Laden down with that term which is further dragged down by the idea that autistic people are male and non-verbal
 
Hi and welcome. Hope you will join in discussions and start some threads. Good to hear from you, and I certainly agree it's useful to have an explanation for how we are. Keep researching, there's plenty to know and a lot has been written, by people with autism and by doctors,

:turtle::horseracing::turtle::tulip::seedling::snake::cactus:
 
Welcome. I have always identified as an introvert but I never felt that the trait fully explained my life's journey. Since discovering that both my brothers are on the spectrum I began to wonder. I rejected the idea that I might be too until recently after doing more research. As I learn more about females on the spectrum combined with my on-line test scores I am pretty sure that I am on the spectrum as well. Finally all the boxes are checked for me. My biggest concern right now is introducing the possibility of being on the spectrum to one of my daughters. Being on the spectrum fits her like a glove.
Thank you! Glad to be here!
It never even occurred to me (or if it did I immediately dismissed it out of hand) until the other day when I was describing to someone who loves the show Atypical that I could never bring myself to watch it because I relate to the main character so much. It feels too real and too reminiscent of the interactions I've had, and I didn't feel like reliving it through the show. He questioned why I would feel that way since I'm not on the spectrum (he assumed this). It made me wonder why myself, so I started reading about it and I very literally wept.
 
Welcome! I was only diagnosed in my 60s and it made sense of my life. I am still learning and coping with memories that have reemerged from my social/sexual isolation during my teen and young adult years. My social development was so profoundly delayed. Healing is a lot of work and I have just started therapy, but it is giving me a view of my biases and overused reflexive thoughts.

I hope you have success in your journey and your understanding of this wonderful community.
 
Welcome. I know what you mean about the sense of understanding. Hopefully your doc doesn't dismiss your speculations and tests you further.

When I was diagnosed, everything just clicked. Hopefully diagnosis or not the same happens for you.
 

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