The first time I told my therapist I think I may be autistic, she said.. “It would make sense.” I was relieved. I was also amused, because, what do you mean “it would make sense?!?” Was it that obvious?! Yes and no. On one hand she could tell something was different, but she first had to determine if it was in response to traumatic experiences. As we worked together in sessions over time, she had a better idea of who I am, how I communicate, and how I interact with others. So, it was a process to get there, but we got there. Turns out there was so much I didn’t know about ASD. The more I learned, the more I felt like I was right all this time. I had a couple of tearful conversations about how ASD would explain my entire childhood experience. How it would explain why even approaching my 30’s I felt like everyone around me was given a manual on how to behave in social situations but I just never got my copy. I also had no idea that ASD could negatively impact my mental health...
Notes From My Mind to Yours