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 neurodiversity awareness.

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

hope

  • What is a substance-free lifestyle? A substance-free lifestyle is a lifestyle choice where a person lives their life without the use of substances that alter their mind in negative ways that are likely to harm them. Examples of substances are alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs, as well as prescription drugs (used in a way that Read more

  • When we treat people the way we want to be treated ourselves, it benefits us in many ways. Image by 🆓 Use at your Ease 👌🏼 from Pixabay Reduces Conflict When we treat others with respect, patience, kindness, and fairness, it reduces conflict so we can have better conversations and more positive interactions. Builds Stronger 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

  • I have read over the years about the best ways to treat, cure or prevent autism, from diet to not vaccinating children. When I have a good diet, I feel better, and when I feel better, my outlook on life is good. However, this does not cure my autism. What Causes Autism? The cause of 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

  • I have often been told that the simple things in life make us happy. I think there is truth in that statement. Happiness for me is contentment, keeping life simple and focussing on my goals. What It Means for Me to Be Content Not wanting more and being happy with what I have is what Read more

  • When I first decided to write my blog, I wasn’t sure if I was doing the right thing. I had kept my difficulties to myself for so long; it felt strange sharing them with the world. As I write, some days it feels great, and the next it makes me cringe. I don’t know why. Read more

  • 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

  • Regrets

    If I had only known I was autistic, I would have been able to deal with situations differently. Over the years, I have felt I have been unable to deal with people in the best way that I could. I have regrets about friendships and relationships. I have not understood why I have behaved in Read more

  • 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