My Autism Life After Diagnosis

My Journal

ABOUT

My name is Louise. I was diagnosed with autism in my late forties.

This blog is my journey from late diagnosis, how I navigate the ups and downs of life, and the strategies I use to cope.

I also write about my lifestyle, my life experiences, and raising awareness about neurodiversity.

Autism is a spectrum, and it can look different in each person. This is one way autism can present.

This blog is for reference and education only, and not professional advice. Please consult a specialist for diagnosis or support.

Please like, comment and subscribe. I would love to read your ideas, thoughts and opinions.

My Journal

Life Experiences

  • My Brain with No Off Switch, and I Need to Rest

    My brain goes all the time. It is like I don’t have an off switch for it to stay quiet. Endless thoughts going around my head, and it is really tiring. I know that for me rest is very important, but I am not very good at stopping. However, I have written some reasons why Read more

  • 10 Reasons to Start Living a Simple Life

    What are the benefits of living a simple life? Life today is so fast, and you will often find yourself locked in a world with distractions and clutter. Mindful living creates more free time, so you can prioritise your health, have more meaningful relationships and improve your finances. Image by Thomas Breher from Pixabay Reduce Read more

  • Is Everyone on the Autistic Spectrum?

    I often hear comments that people make about ‘everyone being on the spectrum’, or ‘a little bit autistic’. I don’t think people say this to be nasty, but it is just a lack of understanding about the condition. After all, I used to think this way too. The answer to this is no. I was Read more

  • Autism and ‘Safe Foods’

    Has anyone ever wondered why many people with autism fuss over food? It is not about being difficult, but about sensory regulation, comfort and predictability. I am not very good at trying new food. There are a lot of foods I like to eat, but there are foods that make me feel anxious when and Read more

  • Fuss Over a Sandwich

    To make a big deal over a sandwich is crazy, I know😂. My daughter asked if she could have a packed lunch to school before the holidays. She has been having school dinners, and it has been so convenient. I don’t have to think about preparing lunch for her; I don’t have to buy extra Read more

  • Relationships: Reasons not to start again

    A relationship, I hope not. I have an imaginary man, and he is perfect😂. At the stage I am at in my life, the thought of a relationship is very difficult. Relationships have always been that way for me. When I think about it now, I get a knot in my stomach. Image by AS Read more

  • Autism Inclusion and the Family

    For me, a sense of belonging is very important, so the attitude of my family makes a difference. Autism inclusion in families is an important place for support and connection. How the family views me makes a difference to my happiness. Image created with Canva Learning from Others I learn from non-autistic people how to Read more

  • What’s the Best Piece of Advice I Have Ever Received?

    The best piece of advice came from my mum’s aunt. She lived into her nineties, drank like a fish and smoked like a chimney, but she said one of the most sensible things ever. ‘Take a big dose of nae notice’ translated as ‘take no notice’ or ‘pay no attention’. I don’t recommend abusing your Read more

  • Autism and Masking

    All my life, I have hidden most of my autistic traits from everyone around me. It was something I did, and I became an expert. I told no one how I felt, and that I was having difficulties. Observing Others I have learned to socialise through watching my peers, focussing on what and how they Read more

  • Autistic Social Battery and Chatting

    Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay – edited by Louise. Small Talk, Banter and Gossip I am not into chatting for the sake of it. Don’t get me wrong, I love to speak to people and spend time with my friends, but after a few hours, I have had enough. Neurotypical people seem to chat Read more