ABOUT

My name is Louise. I was diagnosed with autism in my late forties, and two years later diagnosed with ADHD.

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 and ADHD can look different in each person. This is one way they 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.

Mindful Reading: Behind the Scenes of This Blog
Things That Matter
What This Blog Is and What It Is Not
Why I Write This Blog

My Journal

Life Experiences

  • 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

  • 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 knowπŸ˜‚. 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

  • A relationship, I hope not. I have an imaginary man, and he is perfectπŸ˜‚. 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

  • 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

  • The best piece of advice came from a member of my family. ‘Take a big dose of nae notice’ translated as ‘take no notice’ or ‘pay no attention’. If you don’t bother about the surrounding chaos, such as bickering relatives, bitching, and people falling out, you will live longer. Simple 😊. 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 at it. I told no one how I felt, and that I was having difficulties. Observing Others I have learned to socialise by watching my peers, focusing on what they… Read more

  • 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

  • My Daily Habit

    My daily habit has to be planning my day. When I plan what I am going to do that day, I achieve what I have set out to accomplish because I know exactly what I am doing and when. I love to achieve something every day. It helps me reach my goals. Image by Petra… Read more

  • It is important to focus on the strengths of autistic children rather than trying to get them to spend lots of time on activities they don’t find interesting. My Experiences of School When I was at school, the two main subjects were maths and English. I hated maths, and I hated the fact that I… Read more