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

New Discoveries

  • My Overactive Autistic Brain

    Relaxation is important to all of us. At the end of a busy day, taking some time out is essential to recharge our batteries so we are fresh for the next day. However, my brain is different. It is on the go all the time. Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay Read more

  • Autism and Underemployment

    I am very grateful that I have always held down a job. However, many jobs that I have had over the years have not fully utilised my skills. I had worked for many years as an instrumental music teacher. My qualifications are to teach students one-to-one, the flute and the piano. I couldn’t cope with Read more

  • Strategies to Stay Organised

    Learning to cope with life has been a challenge, as it can be difficult for people with autism to stay organised. However, in order to survive, I have had to create different strategies. This is so that I get everything done, I can relax, and I know I haven’t missed anything important. Familiar Places At Read more

  • Autism Self-Diagnosis or Autism Formal Diagnosis

    Autism self-diagnosis is when a person identifies as autistic through their own experiences without a formal diagnosis by a professional. A formal autism diagnosis is when a professional assesses the person to determine whether they have autism, and by meeting the diagnostic criteria, they receive their official diagnosis. I have my own views of this Read more

  • Sensory Overload

    Most people with autism have sensory sensitivities to some extent whether it is textures, smells, bright lights, tastes or sound. Sensory overload is a challenge day to day, and for me sound causes it. However, I have found ways to overcome it. When I was a child, I hated loud noises. It was the loud, Read more

  • Losing Track of Time

    One activity I hate the most is getting ready in the morning. This is where I often lose track of time. The entire process of getting ready and then leaving the house is exhausting to do every day. I always end up leaving the house late. I would love to take my time in the Read more

  • The Consequences of Forgetting What Is in Your Handbag

    I am not the most forgetful person in the world, but honestly, I have a handbag like Pandora’s Box. When I put something in it, I often forget it is there. The amount of junk that accumulates is unreal. I always plan on trying to use a smaller handbag, but it never works out that Read more

  • Letting Go of Conflict

    I have had my share of conflict over the years. The issue is, conflict with others isn’t productive, especially if it lasts over a long period. It is fine to have disagreements and misunderstandings. Conflict is normal in relationships, but when people drag it out without finding a solution, there is no point in it. Read more

  • Cat Love

    When I decided I wanted a pet, I knew having one would be a great addition to the family for me and my daughter. I got my cat, Vinny, in January 2025. Before I went to collect him, I learned everything about cats and bought what I needed, so the house was ready when he Read more

  • Disability or Difference

    When I think about being autistic, I see it as a difference rather than a disability. However, if we treated it as a difference rather than a disability, would autistic people get the support they need? Image by Rosy / Bad Homburg / Germany from Pixabay Autistic people struggle to get the support they need Read more