Hi, I have recalled that I had been invited to post here sometime ago while I had some other issue going on, which I think it involved Reddit. Right now, I’m feeling okay, but perhaps feeling a little worried, and I’m wondering if I could talk about it here even though I’m on the spectrum as I had been diagnosed in the past with having Asperger’s Syndrome. I must let you know that it may run long as it will probably also include experiences I had in the past since when I used to be a child.
Welcome! For what it’s worth, Asperger’s has been removed in the DSM5, the book psychologists are trained on and use to diagnose mental illnesses. In previous revisions, autism and Asperger’s were separate diagnoses for what is now “Autism Spectrum Disorder”. That’s the “official” part of it anyway.
What makes you worried about autism? Personally, I’ve found that being officially diagnosed didn’t matter to me, as I am the same person regardless of diagnosis. Knowing that I am on the spectrum does help me reframe some aspects of my life through a new lens, but overall, I can’t say I have any space to be worried about it, since whether if I am in fact autistic or if I just have traits of it, my experience will be the same.
I’m not worried about autism, I was referring to other things that may me feel worried, maybe even becoming overwhelmed, going on in the world.
It’s scary and upsetting right now.
Here’s what I do: I help. In little ways. I don’t have a lot to offer to things physically or financially, but I help in ways I am able.
Foster animals. Volunteer at soup kitchens or food banks. Plant a garden. Let flowers grow on your lawn. Donate books to a “little free library”. Put out video tutorials. Sign petitions. Offer to answer questions in your area of expertise. Recycle. Put out kind words & encouragement to strangers. Donate blood or plasma.
Honestly? Do what is in your power to make the spaces around you positive and beautiful. It doesn’t have to be “huge” contributions, because not all of us have the power to do everything, but we certainly have the power to do something.
And don’t forget: you are an important part of this world, too. So take care of yourself and do what makes you happy, as well.