Why do I have to be like this?

[jackmt]

I identify with so much of what you say. I am 55 and just this year got the diagnosis. I suffer from depression, as well. I had PTSD from the abuse my family heaped on me in no small part because of my being Aspie. Having the Dx and learning about how it has affected and is affecting my life helps me not kick myself for my shortcomings. As a result I find that I am better at and have more energy for those things I am good at. I started an Adult Asperger support group. Talking with other people who get you, don't judge you, have similar difficulties and strengths and interests is very gratifying. The best conversations I have had have been with fellow Aspies. A woman in my group told me that she has never in her life had conversations like we have. I am seeing a counselor specializing in Asperger's. She has an Aspie son whom she says is a lot like me. She says I am helping her give voice to some of the difficulties he is having and giving her understanding. I feel useful. That is what is important to me. Speaking of which, have you watched "Temple Grandin"? Great movie for understanding Asperger's/autism. I am in speech therapy to better learn how to get along in this world. My life is improving as I accept what I cannot change and learn to deal with it. Some traits improve with age: this is a developmental disorder; some development is just delayed. Some traits improve with conscious effort combined with good counseling.
Accept who you are, and who you are not. Focus on the positive aspects of your Dx (there are many). Manage what cannot be overcome. Be gentle with yourself. And do not throw away the gifts God has given you. He felt it was better for you to be in this life with Asperger's than for you not to be in this life at all. It is a good idea not to disagree with God, not so?

 

[LittleLambofJesus]

I identify with so much of what you say. I am 55 and just this year got the diagnosis. I suffer from depression, as well. I had PTSD from the abuse my family heaped on me in no small part because of my being Aspie. Having the Dx and learning about how it has affected and is affecting my life helps me not kick myself for my shortcomings. As a result I find that I am better at and have more energy for those things I am good at. I started an Adult Asperger support group. Talking with other people who get you, don't judge you, have similar difficulties and strengths and interests is very gratifying. The best conversations I have had have been with fellow Aspies. A woman in my group told me that she has never in her life had conversations like we have. I am seeing a counselor specializing in Asperger's. She has an Aspie son whom she says is a lot like me. She says I am helping her give voice to some of the difficulties he is having and giving her understanding. I feel useful. That is what is important to me. Speaking of which, have you watched "Temple Grandin"? Great movie for understanding Asperger's/autism. I am in speech therapy to better learn how to get along in this world. My life is improving as I accept what I cannot change and learn to deal with it. Some traits improve with age: this is a developmental disorder; some development is just delayed. Some traits improve with conscious effort combined with good counseling.

Accept who you are, and who you are not. Focus on the positive aspects of your Dx (there are many). Manage what cannot be overcome. Be gentle with yourself. And do not throw away the gifts God has given you. He felt it was better for you to be in this life with Asperger's than for you not to be in this life at all. It is a good idea not to disagree with God, not so?

Thank you for sharing that testimony

 

[jackmt]

Sorry i went a little over the top here. I was pretty moody last night. Its wierd, cuz after all that crap i was going through last night, i just felt super relaxed and peaceful when i went to bed. Im wondering if God sent his angels down to comfort me.

It sounds like maybe you had a meltdown. I had 4 of them last year, of 3 different sorts. They were all in the year just prior to my Dx of Asperger's. I deem it a God thing: I needed to be aware of what I was about to deal with, and I hadn't had any meltdowns in a long time because I have learned how to avoid those situations. How long ago were you Dxed? Are you aware of your sensory issues and other stressors and what can be done to relieve them?
I can perhaps give you a few pointers, or at least what works for me, if you are interested.