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

neurodiversity

  • My Strategy to Happiness

    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

  • Autism and Literal Thinking

    I have had many situations when someone has said something to me and they have meant something else, or not been clear about what they mean, regardless of whether it is intentional. I understand it is the speech pattern of people who are not on the spectrum. However, for me, I like to know exactly Read more

  • The Change I Would Like My Blog to Make

    The change I would like my blog to make would be for people to understand autism and understand how to support people with this condition. I also hope that I can help people too. However, I want people to get to know me as a person, not just my neurodiversity. To do this, I post Read more

  • I Write My Story for Change

    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

  • 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

  • Large Social Gatherings

    I don’t know where to start with this one. It is stressful for anyone, but for me, arranging a large social gathering such as a wedding, is stressful. I don’t have a clue. The steps involved are extremely challenging. Image by Pexels from Pixabay I enjoy large social gatherings to an extent, and I don’t Read more