Introducing me...

[Rachel Albritton]

Hey everyone! I have just come to the realization that I have Asperger Syndrome. My entire life I've been told i have a "developmental delay". Ugh i hate that phrase! Anyway, I've also been diagnosed throughout the years as having ADD, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder. The list goes on. Well, I have been reading a lot on Asperger Syndrome ever since my dad said he thinks i have it.

I have NO organizational skills and have trouble paying attention to things that do not peak my interests. Trying to go to college a couple years ago was a disaster to say the least. My mom has been holding me back and likes to use the "developmental delay" excuse to justify why she never taught me how to drive, or let me make my own decisions. Now, at age 28, I am just now getting up the courage to stand up for myself and tell her to stop underestimating me. She is scared to death of me living on my own and making my own decisions. Yeah, I get that she wants to protect me or whatever, but there's a difference between protective and smothering.

I decided to join this group because I have never met anyone like me and I want/need someone to talk to about all the crap that I go through. I hope this will be a very supportive group and I hope to make lots of lasting friendships! Thanks for listening guys!

Rachel

 

[Ereth]

Hi, Rachel!

My mother is a little similar---not really because of my ASD, but because of other issues I have known about for far longer. Understandably, she's been a little reluctant to let me do certain things. (I did go to college, though.)

If you can demonstrate to your mom that you can do things for yourself, I think she'll give you a break. It'll just take some time.

 

[Rachel Albritton]

yeah, you're right ereth. The problem is actually doing the things that show her that i can do it. lol. Its just not interesting enough for me to do. I guess i'm just lazy in that way. lol. I am going to college this january though. I just hope i can stick with it. lol. Thanks for commenting!

Rachel.

 

[The Penguin]

Welcome to the site. I know you had your fair share of hardship but I hope we can provide good support and advice.

 

[StephF]

Hey Rachel. Welcome to AC
I kinda get where youre coming from. I've had loads of labels stuck to me. Depressed Borderline, Schizoid.
I think Asperger's comes the closest they described me as.

 

[Vanilla]

Welcome

Sounds like you've been through quite a bit recently. I admire you're desire to take a stand, and tackle this new reality head on. I'm sure you'll find many here who can definitely relate, and help you to better understand different aspects of your new-found self.

I recommend also taking a look at our resources section, which lists books recommended by our members. Any books written by Dr. Tony Attwood are a good starting ground: Resources | AspiesCentral.com

I also would like to recommend this book, as it distinguishes the differences between the traits that present in men and women on the spectrum. It also has a great survival guide, for the social pitfalls to avoid: Aspergirls: Empowering Females With Asperger Syndrome | AspiesCentral.com

 

[Peace]

It is possible that your mom is afraid to let go because she will not be needed anymore. Or that both things exist. Discovering just what the problem really is will be the key, and the start to finding a solution.
Good Luck

 

[Rachel Albritton]

Peace, thats what i believe too! lol. I will get through it as will she.

 

[Rocco]

Welcome aboard

 

[Rachel Albritton]

thanks rocco

 

[Nitro]

Welcome to the AC jungle

 

[Rachel Albritton]

haha love that reference to GunsNRoses

 

[Nitro]

haha love that reference to GunsNRoses

 

[Salmongirl17]

A little late, but Hello and Welcome!!

 

[Rachel Albritton]

lol thanks salmon! better late than never

 

[Chisleu]

Happy to meet you! Yes, it's hard for parents to understand we just need a different way of learning a lot of times. Kudos on having the courage to stand up for who you are, you will certainly receive support here.