Category: Autism

  • Seeking Answers: My Second Diagnosis

    Seeking Answers: My Second Diagnosis

    The author reflects on their neurodivergent journey, recognizing symptoms of ADHD alongside autism. They confront decision fatigue, societal stereotypes, and the impact of addiction on their identity. Through sharing experiences, they aim to offer hope and support to others.

  • Confronting the Silent Struggles

    Confronting the Silent Struggles

    The author reflects on understanding their neurodivergent identity, transitioning from hopelessness to hope through community support. They emphasize the importance of acknowledging mental health struggles to prevent isolation and highlight the role of shared experiences in healing.

  • Finding Truth in Recovery: The Interplay of Autism & Alcoholism

    Finding Truth in Recovery: The Interplay of Autism & Alcoholism

    Vanessa reflects on her journey of understanding her neurodivergence rather than solely identifying as an alcoholic. Her autism diagnosis reshapes her self-perception and reveals the complexities of her addiction, marking a path toward self-acceptance and healing.

  • From Addiction to Awareness: My Neurodivergent Mind

    From Addiction to Awareness: My Neurodivergent Mind

    The “disease of more” describes the persistent pursuit of pleasurable experiences and substances, leading to addiction. It explores how underlying issues, like autism and rejection sensitivity, contribute to this addictive behavior, emphasizing discernment in seeking healthy relationships and support.

  • Hope & Hopelessness: To Lose All Hope of a Better Future

    Hope & Hopelessness: To Lose All Hope of a Better Future

    The author reflects on the complexities of living with autism and recovery from addiction, acknowledging feelings of hopelessness while also finding hope through writing and community. This journey of self-discovery reveals gratitude amidst grief, highlighting the importance of acceptance and presence in navigating life’s challenges.

  • Cocooned Recovery: Embracing the Authentic Self

    Cocooned Recovery: Embracing the Authentic Self

    A sober alcoholic and undiagnosed autistic reflects on early recovery, realizing that alcohol created a protective persona. A journey of self-discovery reveals the impact of autism, leading to a new, authentic identity and reliance on spiritual practices for nervous system regulation and healing.

  • To Validate Oneself

    To Validate Oneself

    This journey of self-discovery as an autistic woman has brought insights on trusting oneself, handling others’ opinions, and recognizing the significance of one’s own experiences. The author navigates the emotional rollercoaster and emphasizes the importance of honoring one’s unique path, despite conflicting external influences.

  • Cracked Open: Grief & Hope

    Cracked Open: Grief & Hope

    The author reflects on their recent autism diagnosis, expressing a mix of gratitude, sadness, and revelation. They discuss their spiritual journey, recovery from addiction, and the realization that their struggles stem from being different. They resolve to embrace authenticity and grieve the persona they’ve created, welcoming a new, genuine evolution.

  • The Long-Awaited Breakthrough

    The Long-Awaited Breakthrough

    The author reflects on a profound emotional release after completing self-assessments, realizing her undiagnosed autism shaped her unique experience of the world. This newfound self-awareness emphasizes the need for sharing inner experiences and validating personal encounters with life.

  • Sufism & Self-Discovery: Navigating Annihilation

    Sufism & Self-Discovery: Navigating Annihilation

    The author reflects on their spiritual journey, emphasizing the painful self-discovery post-autism diagnosis. They explore themes of ego destruction, the search for identity, and the transformative power of suffering, ultimately finding hope and acceptance.