I'm a newbie from Iowa. I'm a woman in my late 30s seeking diagnosis. I'm actually at a decent point in my life, but there are things I need to clean up. Until recently I've rejected seeing a therapist or psychologist, as I knew I was "off" but was afraid of what they would find. I have been concerned for years that I was an unambitious sociopath with ADHD, social anxiety, and sensitivity to various stimuli. More research and introspection has led me to what is a more likely conclusion.
To make things extra difficult, I've suspected that my husband is on the spectrum since shortly after we were married. Researching his symptoms led me to look in the mirror. I didn't realize that men and women often manifest differently. I'm better at pretending to be human than he is.
We have a 6yo daughter in kindergarten. I've always noticed that she was sensitive to sound and some touch. She flaps her arms when overstimulated. She's brilliant but having difficulty with reading. The teacher keeps her at the front of the class to minimize distractions as she is difficult to keep focused. Just like her parents.
I suspect that we may be in for quite a journey.