I joined this site recently and posted a few times in other areas, but I thought I might as well come here and say hi.
Hi.
Anyway, I've never been diagnosed, but I've suspected for about a year now that I was somewhere on the spectrum. The chances are very likely as autism does run in my family (although most deny it). It's frustrating, though, because I had no idea my brain could actually be wired differently from most people, so my whole life I had no way to deal with my weaknesses. I've always felt like I've watch everyone passing me by in life, and not sure why I kept falling behind.
I've always sorta lived in my own little world. Or I would visit other worlds through books or movies. I didn't understand this world at all, so I'd only visit whenever I had to. I have an extremely vivid imagination, and I could "live" there for hours. This wasn't a problem so much when I was a kid; I was just a shy day-dreamer. This doesn't work so well as an adult, however. People expect regular contact from me or something. Not sure exactly what they want, and I try to listen if they talk to me, but I rarely initiate conversation, and most conversations are usually quick "hi how are you" "i'm fine how are you" "something something" "ok bye"... Most people I don't know well I just avoid unless they talk to me. Apparently, this comes across as being rude...? I had no idea. I was just trying to be invisible.
I went through a period of depression a few years ago. Actually, it was a period of more-severe-depression-than-usual. I feel like I've regressed into more "eccentric" behavior since then. I do work full time, but other than that, I'm at home either reading, on the computer, or binge-watching tv. The idea of leaving the house for anything is exhausting, even if it's something I would like to do. If it's something I'd rather avoid, I put it off as long as possible.
I've mentioned my suspicions to a few people and got the "but I know someone with aspergers, and you're nothing like them" response every time. My mom accused me of using it as an excuse. An excuse for what, exactly? Does she think I like being this way? My aunt surprised me, though. I listed off some common aspie traits, and she was like, "yeah, that does sound like our family. I might have it, too." She imparted some wisdom (her own personal coping skills), and we had a good chat. If only it were that easy with everyone!
Whew. That felt good to get off my chest.
Um...yeah. Nice to meet you all.