Diagnosed aged 63 through NHS Wales early this year. It has helped a lot and I can stop beating myself up for the way I am. I hate it when people say 'Oh we all are a bit' or 'I don't think you are - you just overthink things and are sensitive' LOL. Anyway, I am learning how to handle them. Mostly people are not surprised, especially family. Friends vary in their acceptance - some have only seen my masked self - the one that is exhausting to keep up for any length of time. Will be definitely looking for support group and Facebook groups now thanks to you. :-)
Diagnosed at age 24 after ending up in a psychiatric facility from decade long burn out. Autism diagnosis saved my life and now I run two platforms detailing my experiences.
36 just got diagnosed. Struggled my whole life, always thought I didn't fit into this world. Kept getting treated for social anxiety but now I can finally live life.
Yes, I was diagnosed at age 50, close to three yrs. ago. I'm still struggling with how to accept myself. It caused a bit of an identity crisis. There aren't any Autism groups next to me that are for adults. My experience telling people is that only one person accepted it, everyone else either said they "didn't see it", or they pretended I never told them.
I was diagnosed at age 49. That was 2 years ago. It happened completely by accident. The psychiatrist came into the gas station where I was working. He asked me how long I had known that I was on the spectrum. I didn't know. I just thought that I was weird. He made me an appointment for free. Asked a huge list of questions and gave me a diagnosis. I live in the US and I don't have insurance. I also have ADD but I've known that for years. I use to teach children with autism. I didn't have a clue. I love your channel.
Got diagnosed this week at 42, had no idea initially but always felt I was “different”. I ran a school for students on the spectrum for about 10 yrs to aid those who struggled in the public school system. I called them Jedis, that those with ASD are just more in touch with the force. My son, who also has ASD, finally said to me: You can’t be Obi-wan if you’re not also a Jedi. Well…duh lol. I just never made the connection! Then my therapist sent me for assessment and lo and behold. Wow! 🤯
Congratulations. I imagine your life finally makes sense. I self diagnosed at 61, and it took several “ Specialists’s 😂 “ before if finally got my diagnosis at 63. There are almost no specialists that can properly identify high functioning ASD. The DSM5 is so out of touch with there criteria for ASD diagnosis. My passion in life is helping people know they are on the spectrum , but there ok. Not broken. God Bless you. ( we usually have our own perspective on spirituality too. 😉) Thank you.
Your ability to maintain eye contact with the camera is fucking amazing. I was diagnosed with Asperger's in my 30s, been trying to survive completely on my own, and basically failing catastrophically for the last near decade.
I'm getting evaluated tomorrow, and I am 27 years old. I can't wait. If it is Asperger's, great, I can get therapy and give these feelings a name after all these years. If it isn't, great, that rules one more thing out.
Yes indeed!! That’s amazing, best of luck with the assessment! Thank you so much for the comment! Please subscribe to my channel to see more videos from me :).
@@TheAspieWorld Thanks for the encouragement. It turns out that I'm ASD Level 1 after all! Along with ADHD, GAD, and Adjustment Disorder. This Tuesday I get to go over the results with the psychologist. I'm looking forward to things getting better and making more sense from here on out! ☺
I was very late diagnosed last year at age 59, after a lifetime of (mis)diagnosis with psychiatric disorders. It answers so many questions, but has led to so many more. I still am trying to accept this new diagnosis at this late time in my life, sadly with a lot of anger. I have joined 3 separate online ASD groups. They are very helpful. For the first time ever, I don’t feel weird, or like a freak. I currently am in therapy which is very difficult for me. As for telling people, I have told my adult children. They were very accepting. At my job, I told my immediate supervisor, and her supervisor (who guessed when I forgot to put away an ASD book). They had already figured out that I was probably autistic 2+ years ago. I really hope that I can accept this diagnosis and be ok with it.
I just got diagnosed with ASD+ADHD. I'm 50. I feel so relieved and excited to understand myself and to find community, even if it's just online. It's been a hell journey, a lot of it. I'm just coming out of severe burnout I and spent years being abused and unsupported, so I'm looking forward to inclusion and just a more intergrated sense of self, because my sense of self has been so shakey, shamed and well, I felt utterly clueless about myself for so long. Just surviving by the "skin of my teeth" (funny saying that, it doesn't make sense and yet it seems to fit) and trying my best to mask, but, obviously, not doing a good job of it coz I kept getting marginalized and stigmatized. Told I was "crazy" by my abusive ex. Got other mental health diagnosis'. Spme that fit and some that kind of did and kind of didn't.So I'm hopeful at getting some support with a lot more understanding of who I am now.
I was diagnosed when I was 30. I'm 33 now. I am high functioning, however. The same day I also was diagnosed with ADHD. It was a weird day. I had a suspicion about maybe being autistic before but it was confirmed by a doctor. I agree it could be a bit overwhelming but I was living with a nine-year-old at the time who was also high functioning. He was the son of the woman I was renting a room from. I became like a sister to him since we both were dealing with how other people treat you when they find out you are autistic. I was protective of him no doubt.
I was diagnosed at age 32. It makes so much sense, and gave me answers after years of not understanding. My son was diagnosed at age 6. The biggest thing my diagnosis did was A) give my friends awareness and allowed them to be flexible and understanding and B) helped me relate to everything my son is going through as well.
i recently got diagnosed (at 17) with autism, ADHD, PTSD, depression and anxiety. Watching your channel has helped me so much to accept myself and feel a sense of normalcy throughout the whole process. I also started a medicine degree this september in the middle of the whole pandemic and after getting the diagnosis in august, it has really not been easy. Thank you so much for everything
Got diagnosed back in March 2020 at the age of 27, just having an explanation of my past life experiences are really comforting. Still not sure how to explain this to my friends and family.
Diagnosed at the age of 25. I had a drug problem for years because I was just trying to fit in and get rid of all the barriers on the social front. And final after 1.5 years clean and going to different therapists someone figured out it may be Asperger and its just such a good feeling finally finding out why I am this way, thanks for the amazing videos
I got my diagnosis a couple of years ago, I was 44. On the waiting list for two years. This channel was instrumental in my journey - thanks TAW for providing the resources and encouragement to carry me forward!
@Sophie Astrid Rooth Hi, yes, I'm in Wales, it was a long wait and very challenging mentally. Just got to hang in there and be patient. You're already through the hardest part of the process which is getting on the waiting list to begin with!
@Sophie Astrid Rooth Average wait seems to be around 18 months so you could be called in for your assessment any day now! Make sure you're on top of opening your post (something I have a problem with!) as I nearly missed mine!
I was diagnosed 3 years ago. Im now 41. My lifes ruined. No motivation whatsoever. Just cant wrap my head around it. Let alone even explain to anyone. Ignorance is bliss.
I was diagnosed just two weeks ago. I’m 51 years old. Yeah, old. It’s been a struggle over the years but it was so helpful (and confusing) to get the diagnosis. It wasn’t unexpected. I’m also referred for ADHD too. I admit I’m a little discombobulated by it. However, I’ve been watching your videos for a while and it’s really helped. So, thanks Dan.
My son was nearly 31 when he was diagnosed after 25 years of battling my local authority. Me I'm 56 and I was halfway through my assesment before lockdown. We also have dyslexia, dyspraxia and we are both being assessed for ADD
@@chele277 chele, Ive done CBT with a counselor and even a 12 week program at my local university I paid top dollar for. Then studied it in my diploma of counseling Im still in debt for. Trust me, ALL the information is online and free. No need to wait, its all online and not hard to learn at all. All the best! Any questions feel free to msg me I still have my course text books and resources and happy to help you and your family if I can. Cheers
I'm a 34 year old woman diagnosed at around age 28 (don't remember exactly). I went to occupational therapy when I was little to learn how to ride a bike (didn't work, then more than a year later I decided to just teach myself one afternoon), and when I was in middle school my Mom went back to get her masters in OT, specifically worked with ASD kids, and identified I had sensory issues but had no idea I was autistic because the diagnostic criteria she'd been trained with was based on boys. I can be socially engaging and enjoy interacting with others but only for very short periods of time. My main problem is executive functioning and staying on top of what I need to do. Was weird to look back and realize all of my meltdowns at family functions after 4-5 hours were autistic in nature... life makes more sense now!
Not knowing why or what one feels is really though, having a diagnosis can really help a lot as you then no longer feel responsible for your feelings (no one is anyway). Wish you the best of luck :)
When my son was diagnosed I was recommend a book called The-out-of-sync-child-grows-up by Carol Stick Kranowitz. Don't be put off by it being fir older children. It has really helped me, it explains what's happening in the first half and the rest is coping skills. It stop me going insane and explained what's happening to me and what I'm going through at present. And Uptight & OffCentre by Sharon Heller. I found that helpful too
My boyfriend was diagnosed with autism 2 weeks ago at age 39. He has felt all his life he was different and thought he was on the spectrum but his family doesn't believe in autism or mental health issues so never supported him to get a diagnosis. He now has a diagnosis which was so great for him but I can see that he is very unsure of how to be now. It will take time to process everything for sure and I hope therapy and support groups will help him like they did you. 🙂
I was diagnosed last week at 29 years old. Suspected it for about 2 years, but my psychiatrist didn't think I was autistic, so it took a while to get a referral. I feel so light now that I finally know why I am like I am.
Thank you for an excellent video, Dan! My little sister wasn’t diagnosed until her 20’s, at which time we realized my dad, and several relatives on my dad’s side are ASD as well. It wasn’t until my early 40’s when I was undergoing extensive counseling for depression that I myself was diagnosed. It was puzzling because I am typically described as social, outgoing etc. I don’t exhibit the more obvious “Sheldon” behaviors. How is this possible? Then I learned about “masking” . I developed this as a survival technique early on, and it is now innate. I strongly encourage anyone with a late diagnosis to do as you suggest. Find others with ASD, invest in yourself through therapy, and most of all believe that you are just different, not deficient. ❤️ Dr. Temple Grandin and Dr. Tony Atwood are amazing resources as well.
This is me. Got my diagnosis at 46 old, and got summarily dumped by the system because I had already had lived with it for so long that I didn't need to learn to be me. My area doesn't really have support for anyone above 30, so it is/was a daily struggle to figure out what I do. I have managed to get an in-home social worker who is awesome advocating for me but it took a few days in the hospital for an unrelated medical issue to make the system realize that just because I am "older", have an education as a social worker (never worked as such) I need a bit more than a few words in my journal.
After 10+ years in NHS MH care and treatment I was diagnosed as ASD in November when I was fifty. It’s hard. NHS mental health gave me the diagnosis, I web address for the local autistic charity and discharged me. The charity had just had its funding cut so we’re only doing press booked phone appointments. I couldn’t handle this so I left it. The relationship I had broke down in February, just before lockdown. At first the diagnosis was weird, then a gift as it explained a lot about my own. Through my journey with the nhs I’ve managed to go from big issue vendor to attain a bachelors degree in fine Art and a first in a Masters degree I’m currently writing a proposal for a PhD. As time goes on I’m recognising coping strategies I use that big the hell out of me..... assimilating myself to the other person in social situations and loosing track of my own identity. I have an ongoing struggle with blaming myself for everything bad that happens. I already had some a year of CAT therapy which o would highly recommend I’m thinking that more therapy could help. I realise I’m going to have to go private and that’s ok, I can afford it nowadays. Suggestions of where or what tips are good. Anyway. Keep up the good work broth 👊
I just received a diagnosis in May this year at 31 of autism, ocd, and ptsd. I had a feeling for about six years that I was autistic but for some reason now that I’ve been diagnosed I feel like an imposter mostly because I’ve learned how closely my OCD and autism is related. So for some reason I feel like I’m not actually autistic. I don’t know if that makes sense. I’ve also felt like I’m going through this burnout. I’m in therapy but because my therapist is the person who diagnosed me but while she was diagnosing me she didn’t seem sure about diagnosing my autism because my ocd was prevelant and most of the things I thought had to do with my autism she said it was OCD. However she still agreed that I was still autistic. But it makes me insecure about talking to her more about my autism diagnosis. Thank you so much for this video.
It went from being under-diagnosed to grossly umbrella over-diagnosed, especially during the DSM-4. They started just handing out Asperger's / ASD diagnosises like candy to anybody with emotional issues, learning disabilities etc.. It's not hard to discern whether or not you have it, even being extremely high functioning. Have you had motor stereotypies since you were a kid? Do you have blatant deficits with executive function? Do you have sensory issues that severely affect the autonomic nervous system? (I'm not talking generalize things that annoy everyone, such as a car alarm going off or a dog barking etc..., But rather things like fluorescent lights making you feel like you're going to throw up). These are the kinds of things you have to honestly assess about yourself to determine whether or not you have it.
I'm 28 and currently seeking a diagnosis. I started following you a few years back feeling like I related, but I kept convincing myself autism didn't fit. Until I started looking into the differences between autism in females and males. Coping with my symptoms and traits is only getting worse the older I get, so I've decided I need to do something. I feel it's even more complicated as I believe I also have alexithymia. You're expected to be so much more emotionally intelligent as an adult....and I've just got nothing. It's expensive and stressful...but hopefully I'll have answers in the next few months. Thank you so much for the work you do, and putting the information out there.
Oh wow that’s awesome thank you for following me for that long. Thank you so much for the comment! I did this video guide to a diagnosis: ruclips.net/p/PLsnq_HpT7puSMrw4ZBMu21ImFvExNH6rv
So I was told that I was on the spectrum when I was 19 and then it was confirmed when I was 20. I was also tested for my IQ and they told me that I had an IQ of 138. Not sure why they wanted to know my IQ. Before that, I was told that I had borderline personality disorder but later on that diagnosis was changed to ASD and it’s been that way ever since. I found out a few months ago that my dad knew since I was 11 but he never told me. I’m not sure why. I wish I had known earlier on in life. It would have explained a lot about my younger self. Well I’m glad I know now. It still explains a lot but I feel like I could have avoided a few years of misery. Either way, I’m proud of who I am. Nowadays I’m proud to share that I’m on the spectrum and I try to help those close to me to see the world through my eyes and how being on the spectrum isn’t a bad thing. It’s just a different view. Dan, after watching your videos I got myself a few thing to help my life be a bit easier such as a weighted blanket and a few sensory toys to help me calm down when I having a hard time. Your videos have been a tremendous help to me and they make me feel not so alone. Thank you for everything!
It's funny how you can relate to Sheldon,😍 I literally have my own spot and no one can sit in it 🤷🤦but I am being honest I take my spot very seriously and get really upset when someone sits in my spot, I love that Sheldon has a spot too because it has helped my family to understand my spot is important to me 😊
Watching this video, just a day after my diagnosis 27/07/21 for High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder... I'm 43 and male. Its like finding all the missing pieces in a jigsaw puzzle... everything makes sense now. Now I just have to learn about who I really am, with the right help. Throughout my life I always was told it was social anxiety, and it took a chance meeting with a cpn who actually recognised some traits which was enough to start the AQ50 test. I'm really grateful for the CPN and the pscychologist.
My diagnosis was not very late, but it could have been earlier. I was diagnosed at the age of 17. I had developmental delays that were noticed when I was 3 and was not yet speaking. It is quite amusing and ironic that I could not speak at 3, but now am more verbose than most of my friends and family😜. Thanks for the video!
Just got my diagnosis today, been waiting for a month on it. Not going to lie, it's scary. I'm so used to hiding "me" from everyone. Just turned 40 in February.
Diagnosed last year aged 55, I'd always known that I was different but it wasn't until I met & worked with an Autistic artist who recommended that I start the process to get diagnosed - it took about 3 years. It started with going to my GP who I'd known for 30 years, he said that he'd always thought I was on the Spectrum (Huh??!) he'd never mentioned it to me!! Since the diagnosis I've had Occupational Therapy which has been very good it's concentrated on managing my work environment and Sensory issues....also did CBT therapy which I hated. I joined a local support group but this he meetings have been on hold during lockdown. The best advice is to make people aware, friends, family and people you speak to on the phone like the energy company or mobile phone company - they will have a lot more patience dealing with you!
I only got diagnosed late last year (I'm currently 38 years old), so I'm definitely a late-diagnosis. I really honestly wish I'd known during my childhood, as I really could've done with loads of support throughout my life.
It suck dosent it? Im 40 and diagnosed ASD 1 month ago. I was bullied by everybody and sacked from jobs ect. What I've learned is that most neurotypicals don't like the idea of anyone being different. And when you tell them you have Autism, they say your "just a bit weird" or "everybody is a bit Autistic"
@@jamieholmes6087 This is it exactly! I went through sheer hell in several jobs, getting treated like a criminal or incompetent and dragged through formal disciplinary procedures before being forced-out. I very nearly committed suicide several times as it gave me such depression and anxiety. I’m still getting PTSD from it even today.😔
@@jamieholmes6087 Yeah, actually. It was something of a relief as it answered a lot of questions about why I’ve always felt the way I have, why I’ve been so sensitive to a lot and why I’ve struggled with a lot of things too. At least I’ve got something I can explain to others about it, even though (as you said), some people are more understanding and supportive than others.
Since I was diagnosed ten years ago, I have been searching for support and haven't found any in New England, USA. This year I have found a group at Yale (CASY), and it is so helpful, finally! You are helpful, too : ) but you're on another continent
Diagnosed at 28, and I'm 31 now. The diagnosis helped me understand a lot of the issues I'd had throughout my life. The signs were never picked up by medical professionals or teachers all that time, and it wasn't until I was referred to counselling for anxiety issues and the counsellor noticing the way I spoke and my mannerisms, then telling the doctors to put in a formal request for testing and diagnosis, that I was eventually diagnosed. The assessors, when giving me my diagnosis said I would have received an Aspergers diagnosis if it hadn't been removed in DSM-V, so I just got the blanket ASD diagnosis.
, I was diagnosed in my 50s sent by doctor because of my life long problems with acute anxiety and crippling depression , diagnosed with aspergers although in my child hood i was clearly autistic. very slow learning to speak had two left feet ,could not tie my shoes or ride a bike until i was about 10 or 11 and being a spastic at school go me smashed people dont like spastics but we make good punch bags
I'm a big fan of counseling - for anyone. It just helps you be the best version of yourself. Then when something big inevitably happens in your life, you're already set up and already have built rapport with an expert who can help you through. My counselor described what he did as "facilitating decision making," which always made me chuckle a little.
I was diagnosed at 37 after 18 long long years dealing with bad mental health and having treatnent for depression and anxiety. Cbt didn't help as it was all triggers...... My diagnosis has made such a difference.
Derry/Londonderry Northern Ireland calling received my diagnosis in February 2019 after accepting a cancellation at aged 39. Finally getting help and support from a local charity called Cedar Foundation. Love love love your vlogs by the way in still working as a key worker in my local hospital in admin
I got diagnosed and referred to mental health services (which I was already under) and when I talk about my autism they shut me down because they are only trained in psychological conditions. There is no place for me in the nhs to get advice and help. Thank god for tony Atwood and youtubers like you or I don’t know where I would be. When I was in the process of getting diagnosed no one believed me as you know girls present differently. Glad to get my diagnosis it’s just sad no one gets me professionally.
I do believe I introduced myself on another video as well. I am 51 years old and a female. I discovered I have Aspergers a month ago. I'm in proccess of seeking a formal diagnosis. Ty
I do want to add that you should think carefully before telling someone. Be sure that it is safe for you to do so, such as with some employers (I'm from the USA, and have "at will" employment in my state) or coworkers. Otherwise these were awesome. I'm in my early 20s waiting on my assessment, and I look forward to checking out the groups in my area
I always thought about Sheldon when it comes to other people with autism. It's so obvious that Sheldon has autism, but nobody says it in the series. TBBT is one of my favourite tv series.
Awesome video, thanks. Definitely gonna come back to this once I get my diagnosis. A potential video idea for you - What to do when you DON'T get a diagnosis. It's something I'm going through at the moment, and I see three options: 1. Look at your report and agree, you're not autistic. Perhaps something else explains your difficulties better. Choose whether to pursue that or not. 2. Disagree with your report and learn to be content with self-diagnosis. 3. Disagree with your report and get a second opinion. It's option 2 or 3 for me. Ideally I'll get a second opinion, but I can't afford a second private assessment, and the NHS waiting list is longer than the rest of my degree, which is what I wanted an official diagnosis for. Go figure. ;)
I was diagnosed November 2019 I felt confused after I'd been fighting for years for a assessment for it and then when I was diagnosed I was confused I'm still learning tbh I said no to groups to when he offered them me I wish I didn't but I found your channel and its helped me alot but along way to go
I just got diagnosed a couple days ago. I’m turning 32 next week. I also have social anxiety disorder. I want to share with my family but they’ve never been great at showing support when it comes to things like this. I do feel alone in this. I don’t know how to tell people like I don’t know when’s the right time to or right way to say it. I’ve had negative feedback in the past from my family and some friends and I’m scared they’ll react in a negative way again.
Number three resonated greatly, because as someone who continued to have communication issues, i decided to see what the issues were. Turns out, ended up with an autism diagnosis in my early fourties... After telling me mum, she thought i was lying, however, i have friends who said to me "i could have told you that". The downside is that i have Pathological Demand Avoidance as well, but it isn't registered as a diagnosis in the U.S., so all i can do is discuss what happens when a meltdown ensues based on it...
I was diagnosed last year (in mid thirties) and it has destroyed me, I can't process it and feel so overwhelmed. I'm constantly suicidal because the fact is there IS no NHS help for adults, there is no therapy - all private practices only see children, are full or I'm "too complex". Suicide is the only option i can see. I can't understand why some people found their diagnosis a good thing. Many more people will die until structured psychological support is put in place.
Probably not going to seek a diagnosis professionally at this time in my life; at 59 i think it is a bit late. However i have been telling people lately that i 'suspect' i have Asperger's.
I'm wondering wether or not I should be taking medication. I can't tell if my meltdowns are getting worse in general or if they are getting worse because of my partner's PTSD and I'm taking on his negative moods 😕
Diagnosed last year (currently aged 32). Still struggling with the last part in particular in my own life, as I get pretty anxious asking for things and in my head I have this feeling of not wanting to be a burden so I end up continuing to mask and trying to fit in like anything happening is all okay with me, then suffering as a result, usually quite badly with headaches and migraines because of the stress. Being part of a support group would help build my confidence I feel, but there are non I can reach at the mo. Hoping that will change as I'll be studying again soon and will have access to more support at my place of study. :) Fingers crossed.
Hi Dan, another great informative video. Thanks. I'm 56 and was diagnosed with ASD a few weeks ago after 27 month wait. I had been looking through your posts for post-diagnosis advice and so this came at a great time. Do you have anything on how to adjust to receiving a diagnosis and tips for disclosing at work - I understand what you're saying about friends and family (though not done yet) but I think that disclosing at work might be different. You mentioned that you would include a link to previous video on therapy - could you add it please. Also, I think that you have faint music in the background which I found distracting.
FINALLY, I HAD MY DIAGNOSIS APPOINTMENTS. 2 years later. The only ones left are the appointment with my parents, and then the conclusion. I should be fixed in August. Meanwhile I weigh 25 kilos more, and have been resorting to unhealthy methods, to keep going on. I resent the system. But the ones I resent the most, or should I say loathe, are these stupid psychiatrists who never EVEN thought about autism, even if my little sister had it. I'm SO resentful. Especially toward one of my cousin, who also started getting in my head, before my appointments, and said among other things "you have to be very [something, she didn't say, I think it's "dumb"] to wish to have a handicap." IT'S ENOUGH. I HAVE BEEN STRUGGLING FOR SO LONG. I'm so. RESENTFUL. I had to be the one to think I might be Auti stic ONLY thanks to your videos, Dan. But I'm in the Dark Side. I'm far away from the time when I read your book about Jediism...
long ago, I had been reading about trastorns, in fact, i read the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), I noticed I matched to high level autism, I realized maybe it could be Asperger. I kept that in mind. Last week, My doctor confirmed. I got my diagnosis in July 2020, 27 years. Now, i understand things better.
Hey Dan, I really hope I got your name right. I was diagnosed in my late 20's and I'm still looking for resources in how to live a better life actually. I live in Canada and I find that in searching out information for improving one's life if one is on the spectrum and it is either geared towards parents of children on the spectrum or how to recognize or cope with (!! :o!) a partner who is on the spectrum - very little of what I can find is tips or support for adults on the spectrum. It can be very frustrating at times. I have watched your videos off and on for a couple of years and I want to say thanks for making TAW. I know I, for one, appreciate it :) (I edited this comment, and will likely comment on another video...)
Diagnosed aged 63 through NHS Wales early this year. It has helped a lot and I can stop beating myself up for the way I am. I hate it when people say 'Oh we all are a bit' or 'I don't think you are - you just overthink things and are sensitive' LOL. Anyway, I am learning how to handle them. Mostly people are not surprised, especially family. Friends vary in their acceptance - some have only seen my masked self - the one that is exhausting to keep up for any length of time. Will be definitely looking for support group and Facebook groups now thanks to you. :-)
There is a convention.
Called "Autfest'
Diagnosed at age 24 after ending up in a psychiatric facility from decade long burn out. Autism diagnosis saved my life and now I run two platforms detailing my experiences.
36 just got diagnosed. Struggled my whole life, always thought I didn't fit into this world. Kept getting treated for social anxiety but now I can finally live life.
Hi are you still being treated for social anxiety?
Yes, I was diagnosed at age 50, close to three yrs. ago. I'm still struggling with how to accept myself. It caused a bit of an identity crisis. There aren't any Autism groups next to me that are for adults. My experience telling people is that only one person accepted it, everyone else either said they "didn't see it", or they pretended I never told them.
My husband gets comments about his diagnosis exactly like that!
Me too. Diagnosed at fifty am now 51
I was diagnosed at age 49. That was 2 years ago. It happened completely by accident. The psychiatrist came into the gas station where I was working. He asked me how long I had known that I was on the spectrum. I didn't know. I just thought that I was weird. He made me an appointment for free. Asked a huge list of questions and gave me a diagnosis. I live in the US and I don't have insurance. I also have ADD but I've known that for years. I use to teach children with autism. I didn't have a clue. I love your channel.
Got diagnosed this week at 42, had no idea initially but always felt I was “different”. I ran a school for students on the spectrum for about 10 yrs to aid those who struggled in the public school system. I called them Jedis, that those with ASD are just more in touch with the force. My son, who also has ASD, finally said to me: You can’t be Obi-wan if you’re not also a Jedi. Well…duh lol. I just never made the connection! Then my therapist sent me for assessment and lo and behold. Wow! 🤯
I was diagnosed in my early 30's. It helped me understand myself and my life so much better.
Same here, I got mine in February this year 💗
Same here!!!
me too!
I was diagnosed as autistic I may this year. I was on a waiting list for 3 years. I am 62 and female.
Wow! You had a lot of patience, to not give up after all that time.
Congratulations. I imagine your life finally makes sense. I self diagnosed at 61, and it took several “ Specialists’s 😂 “ before if finally got my diagnosis at 63. There are almost no specialists that can properly identify high functioning ASD. The DSM5 is so out of touch with there criteria for ASD diagnosis. My passion in life is helping people know they are on the spectrum , but there ok. Not broken. God Bless you. ( we usually have our own perspective on spirituality too. 😉)
Thank you.
Diagnosed today at 27 years old. Feeling lots of confusing emotions right now. Thanks for the video!
Your ability to maintain eye contact with the camera is fucking amazing. I was diagnosed with Asperger's in my 30s, been trying to survive completely on my own, and basically failing catastrophically for the last near decade.
33 years old. It changed my life completely for the best :)
I'm getting evaluated tomorrow, and I am 27 years old. I can't wait. If it is Asperger's, great, I can get therapy and give these feelings a name after all these years. If it isn't, great, that rules one more thing out.
Yes indeed!! That’s amazing, best of luck with the assessment! Thank you so much for the comment! Please subscribe to my channel to see more videos from me :).
@@TheAspieWorld Thanks for the encouragement. It turns out that I'm ASD Level 1 after all! Along with ADHD, GAD, and Adjustment Disorder.
This Tuesday I get to go over the results with the psychologist. I'm looking forward to things getting better and making more sense from here on out! ☺
I was very late diagnosed last year at age 59, after a lifetime of (mis)diagnosis with psychiatric disorders. It answers so many questions, but has led to so many more. I still am trying to accept this new diagnosis at this late time in my life, sadly with a lot of anger. I have joined 3 separate online ASD groups. They are very helpful. For the first time ever, I don’t feel weird, or like a freak. I currently am in therapy which is very difficult for me. As for telling people, I have told my adult children. They were very accepting. At my job, I told my immediate supervisor, and her supervisor (who guessed when I forgot to put away an ASD book). They had already figured out that I was probably autistic 2+ years ago. I really hope that I can accept this diagnosis and be ok with it.
I just got diagnosed with ASD+ADHD. I'm 50. I feel so relieved and excited to understand myself and to find community, even if it's just online. It's been a hell journey, a lot of it. I'm just coming out of severe burnout I and spent years being abused and unsupported, so I'm looking forward to inclusion and just a more intergrated sense of self, because my sense of self has been so shakey, shamed and well, I felt utterly clueless about myself for so long. Just surviving by the "skin of my teeth" (funny saying that, it doesn't make sense and yet it seems to fit) and trying my best to mask, but, obviously, not doing a good job of it coz I kept getting marginalized and stigmatized. Told I was "crazy" by my abusive ex. Got other mental health diagnosis'. Spme that fit and some that kind of did and kind of didn't.So I'm hopeful at getting some support with a lot more understanding of who I am now.
I was diagnosed when I was 30. I'm 33 now. I am high functioning, however. The same day I also was diagnosed with ADHD. It was a weird day. I had a suspicion about maybe being autistic before but it was confirmed by a doctor. I agree it could be a bit overwhelming but I was living with a nine-year-old at the time who was also high functioning. He was the son of the woman I was renting a room from. I became like a sister to him since we both were dealing with how other people treat you when they find out you are autistic. I was protective of him no doubt.
I was diagnosed at age 32. It makes so much sense, and gave me answers after years of not understanding. My son was diagnosed at age 6. The biggest thing my diagnosis did was A) give my friends awareness and allowed them to be flexible and understanding and B) helped me relate to everything my son is going through as well.
My son was 10 (now 13) and I was diagnosed this January aged 32
Diagnosed at 44. Keep up the great content.
i recently got diagnosed (at 17) with autism, ADHD, PTSD, depression and anxiety. Watching your channel has helped me so much to accept myself and feel a sense of normalcy throughout the whole process. I also started a medicine degree this september in the middle of the whole pandemic and after getting the diagnosis in august, it has really not been easy. Thank you so much for everything
Got diagnosed back in March 2020 at the age of 27, just having an explanation of my past life experiences are really comforting. Still not sure how to explain this to my friends and family.
Same here, got mine in February, age 29 💗
SweetStrawberryShell It’s a huge relief is it not? Wish you the best of luck :)
My son is 27 I'm almost sure he's autistic he's seeing a phycatist soon hope they pick up on it.
Ich habe meine Diagnose im August 2012 mit 41 Jahren erhalten!
Diagnosed at the age of 25. I had a drug problem for years because I was just trying to fit in and get rid of all the barriers on the social front. And final after 1.5 years clean and going to different therapists someone figured out it may be Asperger and its just such a good feeling finally finding out why I am this way, thanks for the amazing videos
I was just diagnosed two days ago, your channel has helped me through this whole process, this video came at the perfect time. Thank you so much
I am 44 3year ago diagnosed. I suffer most in work and social situations. Your channel is a help so go on. From flemmish Belgium
I got my diagnosis a couple of years ago, I was 44. On the waiting list for two years. This channel was instrumental in my journey - thanks TAW for providing the resources and encouragement to carry me forward!
@Sophie Astrid Rooth Hi, yes, I'm in Wales, it was a long wait and very challenging mentally. Just got to hang in there and be patient. You're already through the hardest part of the process which is getting on the waiting list to begin with!
@Sophie Astrid Rooth Average wait seems to be around 18 months so you could be called in for your assessment any day now! Make sure you're on top of opening your post (something I have a problem with!) as I nearly missed mine!
I was diagnosed 3 years ago. Im now 41. My lifes ruined. No motivation whatsoever. Just cant wrap my head around it. Let alone even explain to anyone. Ignorance is bliss.
Diagnosed this February (2020) at the age of 28. Getting so much help from all your wonderful videos - thank you for all you do!
I was diagnosed just two weeks ago. I’m 51 years old. Yeah, old. It’s been a struggle over the years but it was so helpful (and confusing) to get the diagnosis. It wasn’t unexpected. I’m also referred for ADHD too. I admit I’m a little discombobulated by it. However, I’ve been watching your videos for a while and it’s really helped. So, thanks Dan.
I was diagnosed when I was 29, back in March. I’ve broken my wrist in 2 places while having a meltdown yesterday
My son was nearly 31 when he was diagnosed after 25 years of battling my local authority. Me I'm 56 and I was halfway through my assesment before lockdown. We also have dyslexia, dyspraxia and we are both being assessed for ADD
My son has been waiting for CBT since 2013, my area is crap so we are moving County
@@chele277 chele, Ive done CBT with a counselor and even a 12 week program at my local university I paid top dollar for. Then studied it in my diploma of counseling Im still in debt for. Trust me, ALL the information is online and free. No need to wait, its all online and not hard to learn at all. All the best! Any questions feel free to msg me I still have my course text books and resources and happy to help you and your family if I can. Cheers
@@HappinessOrDeath thank you, will look it up. Great info
I'm a 34 year old woman diagnosed at around age 28 (don't remember exactly). I went to occupational therapy when I was little to learn how to ride a bike (didn't work, then more than a year later I decided to just teach myself one afternoon), and when I was in middle school my Mom went back to get her masters in OT, specifically worked with ASD kids, and identified I had sensory issues but had no idea I was autistic because the diagnostic criteria she'd been trained with was based on boys. I can be socially engaging and enjoy interacting with others but only for very short periods of time. My main problem is executive functioning and staying on top of what I need to do. Was weird to look back and realize all of my meltdowns at family functions after 4-5 hours were autistic in nature... life makes more sense now!
Diagnosed at 57. To be honest, it was a relief as I finally knew the reason why I was the way I was.
Have a good weekend, Dan.
I was diagnosed with severe autism when I was 32 and still finding it difficult making new friends and keeping healthy relationships
Good Grief - I have just been diagnosed (2 months ago) with autism and am 63 years old!
I was diagnosed in my early 50’s. These videos help me wade through my thinking and feelings.
As someone who is waiting to be diagnosed this was really helpful, i am struggling a lot lately and it's hard because i can't explain why.
Not knowing why or what one feels is really though, having a diagnosis can really help a lot as you then no longer feel responsible for your feelings (no one is anyway). Wish you the best of luck :)
When my son was diagnosed I was recommend a book called The-out-of-sync-child-grows-up by Carol Stick Kranowitz. Don't be put off by it being fir older children. It has really helped me, it explains what's happening in the first half and the rest is coping skills. It stop me going insane and explained what's happening to me and what I'm going through at present. And Uptight & OffCentre by Sharon Heller. I found that helpful too
@@chele277 thank you
My boyfriend was diagnosed with autism 2 weeks ago at age 39. He has felt all his life he was different and thought he was on the spectrum but his family doesn't believe in autism or mental health issues so never supported him to get a diagnosis. He now has a diagnosis which was so great for him but I can see that he is very unsure of how to be now. It will take time to process everything for sure and I hope therapy and support groups will help him like they did you. 🙂
I was diagnosed last week at 29 years old. Suspected it for about 2 years, but my psychiatrist didn't think I was autistic, so it took a while to get a referral. I feel so light now that I finally know why I am like I am.
Dan i was 44 when i got diagnosed before i was diagnosed people treated me as i was thick and lazy after i was diagnosed life got easier
I received my diagnosis yesterday... I'm in my late 40s. Now I go down the research rabbit hole...
Diagnosed as an aspie at 55 (a bit over a year ago). Answered so much
Thank you for an excellent video, Dan! My little sister wasn’t diagnosed until her 20’s, at which time we realized my dad, and several relatives on my dad’s side are ASD as well. It wasn’t until my early 40’s when I was undergoing extensive counseling for depression that I myself was diagnosed. It was puzzling because I am typically described as social, outgoing etc. I don’t exhibit the more obvious “Sheldon” behaviors. How is this possible? Then I learned about “masking” . I developed this as a survival technique early on, and it is now innate. I strongly encourage anyone with a late diagnosis to do as you suggest. Find others with ASD, invest in yourself through therapy, and most of all believe that you are just different, not deficient. ❤️ Dr. Temple Grandin and Dr. Tony Atwood are amazing resources as well.
I'm 38 and got my diagnosis today. So very relieved that others confirm what I knew for sure myself.... :)
I appreciate you videos and podcast so much. I watch your videos daily and its kind of part of my routine now. Lol. I even rewatch. ASD this year.
This is me. Got my diagnosis at 46 old, and got summarily dumped by the system because I had already had lived with it for so long that I didn't need to learn to be me. My area doesn't really have support for anyone above 30, so it is/was a daily struggle to figure out what I do. I have managed to get an in-home social worker who is awesome advocating for me but it took a few days in the hospital for an unrelated medical issue to make the system realize that just because I am "older", have an education as a social worker (never worked as such) I need a bit more than a few words in my journal.
Thank you Dan! I was just diagnosed ASD ADHD, (dyslexia a couple years back now). I'm in my 30's. This is very helpful, Thank you!!
Thank you man yeah be open with your family the ones you think they will support you yes
After 10+ years in NHS MH care and treatment I was diagnosed as ASD in November when I was fifty. It’s hard. NHS mental health gave me the diagnosis, I web address for the local autistic charity and discharged me. The charity had just had its funding cut so we’re only doing press booked phone appointments. I couldn’t handle this so I left it. The relationship I had broke down in February, just before lockdown.
At first the diagnosis was weird, then a gift as it explained a lot about my own.
Through my journey with the nhs I’ve managed to go from big issue vendor to attain a bachelors degree in fine Art and a first in a Masters degree I’m currently writing a proposal for a PhD.
As time goes on I’m recognising coping strategies I use that big the hell out of me..... assimilating myself to the other person in social situations and loosing track of my own identity.
I have an ongoing struggle with blaming myself for everything bad that happens.
I already had some a year of CAT therapy which o would highly recommend
I’m thinking that more therapy could help. I realise I’m going to have to go private and that’s ok, I can afford it nowadays. Suggestions of where or what tips are good.
Anyway. Keep up the good work broth 👊
I just received a diagnosis in May this year at 31 of autism, ocd, and ptsd. I had a feeling for about six years that I was autistic but for some reason now that I’ve been diagnosed I feel like an imposter mostly because I’ve learned how closely my OCD and autism is related. So for some reason I feel like I’m not actually autistic. I don’t know if that makes sense. I’ve also felt like I’m going through this burnout. I’m in therapy but because my therapist is the person who diagnosed me but while she was diagnosing me she didn’t seem sure about diagnosing my autism because my ocd was prevelant and most of the things I thought had to do with my autism she said it was OCD. However she still agreed that I was still autistic. But it makes me insecure about talking to her more about my autism diagnosis. Thank you so much for this video.
It went from being under-diagnosed to grossly umbrella over-diagnosed, especially during the DSM-4. They started just handing out Asperger's / ASD diagnosises like candy to anybody with emotional issues, learning disabilities etc..
It's not hard to discern whether or not you have it, even being extremely high functioning. Have you had motor stereotypies since you were a kid? Do you have blatant deficits with executive function? Do you have sensory issues that severely affect the autonomic nervous system? (I'm not talking generalize things that annoy everyone, such as a car alarm going off or a dog barking etc..., But rather things like fluorescent lights making you feel like you're going to throw up).
These are the kinds of things you have to honestly assess about yourself to determine whether or not you have it.
I'm 28 and currently seeking a diagnosis. I started following you a few years back feeling like I related, but I kept convincing myself autism didn't fit. Until I started looking into the differences between autism in females and males. Coping with my symptoms and traits is only getting worse the older I get, so I've decided I need to do something. I feel it's even more complicated as I believe I also have alexithymia. You're expected to be so much more emotionally intelligent as an adult....and I've just got nothing. It's expensive and stressful...but hopefully I'll have answers in the next few months. Thank you so much for the work you do, and putting the information out there.
Oh wow that’s awesome thank you for following me for that long. Thank you so much for the comment! I did this video guide to a diagnosis: ruclips.net/p/PLsnq_HpT7puSMrw4ZBMu21ImFvExNH6rv
Yes, last week finaly at 47. Now I have so many questions en how further! 😳
So I was told that I was on the spectrum when I was 19 and then it was confirmed when I was 20. I was also tested for my IQ and they told me that I had an IQ of 138. Not sure why they wanted to know my IQ. Before that, I was told that I had borderline personality disorder but later on that diagnosis was changed to ASD and it’s been that way ever since. I found out a few months ago that my dad knew since I was 11 but he never told me. I’m not sure why. I wish I had known earlier on in life. It would have explained a lot about my younger self. Well I’m glad I know now. It still explains a lot but I feel like I could have avoided a few years of misery. Either way, I’m proud of who I am. Nowadays I’m proud to share that I’m on the spectrum and I try to help those close to me to see the world through my eyes and how being on the spectrum isn’t a bad thing. It’s just a different view. Dan, after watching your videos I got myself a few thing to help my life be a bit easier such as a weighted blanket and a few sensory toys to help me calm down when I having a hard time. Your videos have been a tremendous help to me and they make me feel not so alone. Thank you for everything!
It's funny how you can relate to Sheldon,😍 I literally have my own spot and no one can sit in it 🤷🤦but I am being honest I take my spot very seriously and get really upset when someone sits in my spot, I love that Sheldon has a spot too because it has helped my family to understand my spot is important to me 😊
Watching this video, just a day after my diagnosis 27/07/21 for High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder... I'm 43 and male. Its like finding all the missing pieces in a jigsaw puzzle... everything makes sense now. Now I just have to learn about who I really am, with the right help. Throughout my life I always was told it was social anxiety, and it took a chance meeting with a cpn who actually recognised some traits which was enough to start the AQ50 test. I'm really grateful for the CPN and the pscychologist.
My diagnosis was not very late, but it could have been earlier. I was diagnosed at the age of 17. I had developmental delays that were noticed when I was 3 and was not yet speaking. It is quite amusing and ironic that I could not speak at 3, but now am more verbose than most of my friends and family😜. Thanks for the video!
Just got my diagnosis today, been waiting for a month on it. Not going to lie, it's scary. I'm so used to hiding "me" from everyone. Just turned 40 in February.
LOVE THIS!!! I'll be 42 next, was diagnosed 1 month ago and am still trying to work out what to do next.... these are great suggestions!!
Thank you for the advice. I’m 37 and was diagnosed a few weeks ago and wasn’t sure what to do next. Your video has helped!
thank you for all ur help
Diagnosed last year aged 55, I'd always known that I was different but it wasn't until I met & worked with an Autistic artist who recommended that I start the process to get diagnosed - it took about 3 years. It started with going to my GP who I'd known for 30 years, he said that he'd always thought I was on the Spectrum (Huh??!) he'd never mentioned it to me!! Since the diagnosis I've had Occupational Therapy which has been very good it's concentrated on managing my work environment and Sensory issues....also did CBT therapy which I hated. I joined a local support group but this he meetings have been on hold during lockdown. The best advice is to make people aware, friends, family and people you speak to on the phone like the energy company or mobile phone company - they will have a lot more patience dealing with you!
I’m currently waiting for my assessment but based on my research it describes me to the T and there’s a 2 year wait via NHS which sucks
Same! I've waited 2 years already and the wait has been extended with COVID
Took me 6years. They forgot about me twice. B persistant
ally haze it’s sad because some people are suffering as result and getting no support
Same
I only got diagnosed late last year (I'm currently 38 years old), so I'm definitely a late-diagnosis. I really honestly wish I'd known during my childhood, as I really could've done with loads of support throughout my life.
It suck dosent it?
Im 40 and diagnosed ASD 1 month ago.
I was bullied by everybody and sacked from jobs ect.
What I've learned is that most neurotypicals don't like the idea of anyone being different.
And when you tell them you have Autism, they say your "just a bit weird" or "everybody is a bit Autistic"
@@jamieholmes6087 This is it exactly! I went through sheer hell in several jobs, getting treated like a criminal or incompetent and dragged through formal disciplinary procedures before being forced-out. I very nearly committed suicide several times as it gave me such depression and anxiety. I’m still getting PTSD from it even today.😔
@@jpwphoenix1701 sorry you felt that way (Suicidal)
Do you feel better since your diagnosis?
@@jamieholmes6087 Yeah, actually. It was something of a relief as it answered a lot of questions about why I’ve always felt the way I have, why I’ve been so sensitive to a lot and why I’ve struggled with a lot of things too. At least I’ve got something I can explain to others about it, even though (as you said), some people are more understanding and supportive than others.
I’ve just been diagnosed and this has helped me greatly, thank you.
Since I was diagnosed ten years ago, I have been searching for support and haven't found any in New England, USA. This year I have found a group at Yale (CASY), and it is so helpful, finally! You are helpful, too : ) but you're on another continent
I was diagnosed at age 23 on April 20th of this year and your videos helped push me to do it 🙂
Diagnosed at 28, and I'm 31 now.
The diagnosis helped me understand a lot of the issues I'd had throughout my life.
The signs were never picked up by medical professionals or teachers all that time, and it wasn't until I was referred to counselling for anxiety issues and the counsellor noticing the way I spoke and my mannerisms, then telling the doctors to put in a formal request for testing and diagnosis, that I was eventually diagnosed.
The assessors, when giving me my diagnosis said I would have received an Aspergers diagnosis if it hadn't been removed in DSM-V, so I just got the blanket ASD diagnosis.
, I was diagnosed in my 50s sent by doctor because of my life long problems with acute anxiety and crippling depression , diagnosed with aspergers although in my child hood i was clearly autistic. very slow learning to speak had two left feet ,could not tie my shoes or ride a bike until i was about 10 or 11 and being a spastic at school go me smashed people dont like spastics but we make good punch bags
Thats terrible and im sorry that it was so bad for you :(
I'm a big fan of counseling - for anyone. It just helps you be the best version of yourself. Then when something big inevitably happens in your life, you're already set up and already have built rapport with an expert who can help you through.
My counselor described what he did as "facilitating decision making," which always made me chuckle a little.
Thank you for this video man I was just diagnosed today at 35. Currently researching. (Also from Pompey)
39 years old and diagnosed 2 weeks ago! Fellow autists come and say hey!
I was diagnosed at 37 after 18 long long years dealing with bad mental health and having treatnent for depression and anxiety. Cbt didn't help as it was all triggers...... My diagnosis has made such a difference.
Derry/Londonderry Northern Ireland calling received my diagnosis in February 2019 after accepting a cancellation at aged 39. Finally getting help and support from a local charity called Cedar Foundation. Love love love your vlogs by the way in still working as a key worker in my local hospital in admin
I got diagnosed and referred to mental health services (which I was already under) and when I talk about my autism they shut me down because they are only trained in psychological conditions. There is no place for me in the nhs to get advice and help. Thank god for tony Atwood and youtubers like you or I don’t know where I would be. When I was in the process of getting diagnosed no one believed me as you know girls present differently. Glad to get my diagnosis it’s just sad no one gets me professionally.
I do believe I introduced myself on another video as well. I am 51 years old and a female. I discovered I have Aspergers a month ago. I'm in proccess of seeking a formal diagnosis. Ty
I do want to add that you should think carefully before telling someone. Be sure that it is safe for you to do so, such as with some employers (I'm from the USA, and have "at will" employment in my state) or coworkers. Otherwise these were awesome. I'm in my early 20s waiting on my assessment, and I look forward to checking out the groups in my area
I always thought about Sheldon when it comes to other people with autism. It's so obvious that Sheldon has autism, but nobody says it in the series. TBBT is one of my favourite tv series.
Diagnosed with ASD at 51, and ADHD at 28, also OCD at 22ish
Awesome video, thanks. Definitely gonna come back to this once I get my diagnosis.
A potential video idea for you - What to do when you DON'T get a diagnosis. It's something I'm going through at the moment, and I see three options:
1. Look at your report and agree, you're not autistic. Perhaps something else explains your difficulties better. Choose whether to pursue that or not.
2. Disagree with your report and learn to be content with self-diagnosis.
3. Disagree with your report and get a second opinion.
It's option 2 or 3 for me. Ideally I'll get a second opinion, but I can't afford a second private assessment, and the NHS waiting list is longer than the rest of my degree, which is what I wanted an official diagnosis for. Go figure. ;)
I was diagnosed November 2019 I felt confused after I'd been fighting for years for a assessment for it and then when I was diagnosed I was confused I'm still learning tbh I said no to groups to when he offered them me I wish I didn't but I found your channel and its helped me alot but along way to go
I was diagnosed at 27. I'm 31 now.
Im a female in my 40s, and on the waiting list to get assessed, this is helpful with some questions I have about after assessment.
I just got diagnosed a couple days ago. I’m turning 32 next week. I also have social anxiety disorder. I want to share with my family but they’ve never been great at showing support when it comes to things like this. I do feel alone in this. I don’t know how to tell people like I don’t know when’s the right time to or right way to say it. I’ve had negative feedback in the past from my family and some friends and I’m scared they’ll react in a negative way again.
Number three resonated greatly, because as someone who continued to have communication issues, i decided to see what the issues were.
Turns out, ended up with an autism diagnosis in my early fourties...
After telling me mum, she thought i was lying, however, i have friends who said to me "i could have told you that".
The downside is that i have Pathological Demand Avoidance as well, but it isn't registered as a diagnosis in the U.S., so all i can do is discuss what happens when a meltdown ensues based on it...
I believe I'm an undiagnosed autistic. I've found your videos really useful
I was diagnosed just after my 23rd birthday. And I was told it’s common for women to be diagnosed later than men.
I go in for my results on Monday, 38hrs and counting, im so excited & nervous!
I was diagnosed last year (in mid thirties) and it has destroyed me, I can't process it and feel so overwhelmed. I'm constantly suicidal because the fact is there IS no NHS help for adults, there is no therapy - all private practices only see children, are full or I'm "too complex". Suicide is the only option i can see. I can't understand why some people found their diagnosis a good thing. Many more people will die until structured psychological support is put in place.
Probably not going to seek a diagnosis professionally at this time in my life; at 59 i think it is a bit late.
However i have been telling people lately that i 'suspect' i have Asperger's.
I'm wondering wether or not I should be taking medication.
I can't tell if my meltdowns are getting worse in general or if they are getting worse because of my partner's PTSD and I'm taking on his negative moods 😕
Just got diagnosed today 😅, I’m 23 and a medical student, talked to my psychiatrist and she agreed on it and did some triage exams.
I was diagnosed yesterday! Thank you!
Thank you for your support and insight into how life is for us. This is a life saver for us all. Dan. ✌️✨✨✨❤️🇨🇦🌎🌻
I was diagnosed aged 36 in December 2019 long after my 11 year old son Anthony got diagnosed
I Was just diagnosed a few weeks ago and I am 31 I am also going threw having my 6 year old diagnosed as well
Oh fantastic!! Welcome!! Thank you so much for the comment! Please subscribe to my channel to see more videos from me :).
Diagnosed at 42.went on medication for a year, as I was finding it hard to find myself. Coming off medication and feeling good!
Diagnosed aged 31 by a clinical psychologist in Ireland privately as the public system rejected by GP's referral.
Diagnosed last year (currently aged 32). Still struggling with the last part in particular in my own life, as I get pretty anxious asking for things and in my head I have this feeling of not wanting to be a burden so I end up continuing to mask and trying to fit in like anything happening is all okay with me, then suffering as a result, usually quite badly with headaches and migraines because of the stress. Being part of a support group would help build my confidence I feel, but there are non I can reach at the mo. Hoping that will change as I'll be studying again soon and will have access to more support at my place of study. :) Fingers crossed.
Hi Dan, another great informative video. Thanks. I'm 56 and was diagnosed with ASD a few weeks ago after 27 month wait. I had been looking through your posts for post-diagnosis advice and so this came at a great time.
Do you have anything on how to adjust to receiving a diagnosis and tips for disclosing at work - I understand what you're saying about friends and family (though not done yet) but I think that disclosing at work might be different.
You mentioned that you would include a link to previous video on therapy - could you add it please. Also, I think that you have faint music in the background which I found distracting.
FINALLY, I HAD MY DIAGNOSIS APPOINTMENTS. 2 years later. The only ones left are the appointment with my parents, and then the conclusion. I should be fixed in August. Meanwhile I weigh 25 kilos more, and have been resorting to unhealthy methods, to keep going on.
I resent the system. But the ones I resent the most, or should I say loathe, are these stupid psychiatrists who never EVEN thought about autism, even if my little sister had it.
I'm SO resentful. Especially toward one of my cousin, who also started getting in my head, before my appointments, and said among other things "you have to be very [something, she didn't say, I think it's "dumb"] to wish to have a handicap."
IT'S ENOUGH. I HAVE BEEN STRUGGLING FOR SO LONG. I'm so. RESENTFUL.
I had to be the one to think I might be Auti stic ONLY thanks to your videos, Dan.
But I'm in the Dark Side. I'm far away from the time when I read your book about Jediism...
long ago, I had been reading about trastorns, in fact, i read the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), I noticed I matched to high level autism, I realized maybe it could be Asperger. I kept that in mind. Last week, My doctor confirmed. I got my diagnosis in July 2020, 27 years. Now, i understand things better.
Awesome dan!
Hey Dan,
I really hope I got your name right. I was diagnosed in my late 20's and I'm still looking for resources in how to live a better life actually. I live in Canada and I find that in searching out information for improving one's life if one is on the spectrum and it is either geared towards parents of children on the spectrum or how to recognize or cope with (!! :o!) a partner who is on the spectrum - very little of what I can find is tips or support for adults on the spectrum. It can be very frustrating at times.
I have watched your videos off and on for a couple of years and I want to say thanks for making TAW. I know I, for one, appreciate it :)
(I edited this comment, and will likely comment on another video...)