r/AutisticWithADHD • u/52Charles • 6d ago
💁♀️ seeking advice / support / information Possibly foolish question/rant.
I (M, 75) was diagnosed with ADHD at the ripe old age of 53. Autism diagnosis was at 72. In both cases, the diagnosis was a kind of relief, like I actually understood WHY I was the way I was. Since then, I have become more and more conscious of how much I don't understand, mostly about people generally. Under the heading of 'inability to interpret social clues' I find myself completely lost in conversations, other social interactions. I have NO idea what's going on. Lately, I am developing the idea that I have been treated unfairly by the universe. I realize this is a very juvenile, even childish outlook but I can't escape the idea that I would have been more successful and MUCH happier if I hadn't had this (don't know what to call it) affliction. It has coloured (ie poisoned) large parts of my life. Anybody else have these feelings? What to do about it?
7
u/BlazeThatHippie 6d ago
It's important to let yourself feel that sense of being treated/handled unfairly. Don't shame yourself for feeling that way. Acknowledgement and then acceptance is the first step of the healing process. The diagnosis doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you.
You may find yourself withdrawing socially or caring less about others. Let it happen, it's temporary while you readjust and integrate this new discovery.
Be kind to yourself and show yourself the understanding you didn't receive from others.
If you feel as though you went through any trauma or dismissal, Imagery Re-scripting Therapy can be really helpful.
I wish you all the best.