I was Diagnosed with Autism 3 Years Ago, Here’s What I’ve Learned
The end of May marks the third anniversary of my Autism diagnosis. Three years I’ve known I am Autistic. Three years. It is worth repeating because for 22 years of my life, I had no idea.
Not a member? Read the article here.
I remember when I first learned I might be on the Autism spectrum. I began to see my entire life through a new lens. Overwhelming is the word that comes to mind when I think about this time. Also, sadness, understanding, awe, and of course, grief.
Grieving What Could Have Been
There is an intense grieving process that often occurs when individuals first discover they are Autistic. I didn’t fully understand it at first, but the more I learned about Autism and myself, the more I came to know this grief for what it was: missed opportunities.
If only I had known then. I could have received the help I needed. I wouldn’t have had to mask my entire being. I shouldn’t have been missed because I’m a woman.
I think, Autistic or not, many can relate to this experience. If you’d had the tools, the support, the coping skills when you were younger maybe you wouldn’t have had to suffer so much hardship. At the very least, you would have been better equipped to handle your struggles.
