My Autism Life After Diagnosis

My Journal

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

mindfulness

  • The Benefits of Playing Musical Instruments

    Music has been recognised as more than just entertainment. As Dr Tracey Marks explains in her video, music can have a beneficial effect on our mental state. Playing a musical instrument can exercise and improve our minds. I play the piano, the recorder and the flute. I find my mood improves significantly when I play,… Read more

  • Valuing Peace as I Age as a Neurodivergent Woman

    I have been blessed with a beautiful view outside my window. A red deer often comes into the grasslands, rummages around, and then relaxes in the sun. Nothing seems to worry this deer. It just lives in the moment, and that is the best way. The birds sing in the trees. I have always noticed… Read more

  • The Importance of Not Taking Life Too Seriously

    I can find life very overwhelming and put pressure on myself. So, I am thinking about ways to help life feel less out of control. There are many ways I take life too seriously, which I feel adds to my problems. I can overreact to slight mistakes and stress about small things. I have to… Read more

  • Self-Compassion

    I am always beating myself up and worrying if I have done enough. Here is a quote that helps me have more self-compassion. “Be water, my friend.” Bruce Lee This quote reminds me that, like water, I can approach challenges by adapting, staying calm and being in control without overreacting. Water continues to flow and… Read more

  • Autism and Navigating Honesty in Conversations

    I don’t always say the right thing, especially in new situations that I have never experienced before. Sometimes, I say something without thinking, and I feel bad after saying it if it is not helpful. I don’t like to give details of conversations with others on my blog for their privacy, so I will describe… 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

  • Understanding Emotions in Autism: A Personal Journey

    People with autism can have difficulty understanding emotions, but this does not mean that we don’t feel them and cannot recognise certain emotions. Image by Gino Crescoli from Pixabay I Feel Emotions My emotions can be very intense, and the emotions of others can affect me. I am also sensitive to negativity. Mean words or… Read more