Please help

[TBear5879]

I have autism and ADHD and would like to get tested for depression. So, not a great start to life for me . feel so sad and energy less all the time, I just don't know what to do. Please help me.

[sbella02]

Tbear5879,

Thank you so much for reaching out, welcome to the forums. It's common for depression and/or anxiety to also be present if you're struggling with something else, including autism and ADHD. 

Do you have a regular GP? You could start by having a chat to a doctor about how you're feeling, and they'll help you work out what your next steps will be, whether it'll be helpful for you to start seeing a counsellor, therapist, or psychologist. Professional advice is often quite reassuring if you're struggling.

If you're looking for short-term things that you can do to feel better, going for a walk can often be quite therapeutic, as well as journalling about how you're feeling or something that's happened. Journalling is always my go-to if I'm feeling at a loss or sad.

Has there been something that's happened recently that might be making you feel like this, or has this been present for a while? If you're willing to share any more of your story, we may be able to offer more specific suggestions from our own lived experiences.

In the meantime, take care, and I hope that you can find comfort in our forums. We're here for you.

SB

[TBear5879]

Thank you so much for your support I just wanted to let you know I already see multiple therapists but thanks for your other ideas

[sbella02]

TBear5879,

That's good to hear that you're seeing multiple therapists already, how has your experience with them been? Have they given you any useful tips or advice at this stage, or has there been anything that you've tried that hasn't worked?

SB

[Horndog]

I also have autism and depression and are very lonely and really need friends, but only feel safe expressing myself online. Would you like to chat with me?

[sbella02]

It's interesting that you say that. Of the neurodivergent people in my own life (friends, family, peers), I've noticed that many of them do prefer to talk in online spaces. I've got a few theories on why this may be the case.

First of all, it removes the fear of judgement that comes from real-life interaction where facial expressions are difficult to gauge. To that end, your identity online is limited to both a screen and what you disclose/how you respond to people, so any perceived judgements from others may feel less personalised. Online communication also allows people with similar interests to connect, and it's very common for neurodivergent people to have specialised or niche interests, thus it can be easy to connect with and bond with people who share their passion for these. 

Online friends can definitely lead to feeling less lonely and more connected with people. I wouldn't consider myself to be neurodivergent, but I too like online media when communicating, as it can be easier to express yourself and even edit what you say to sound concise and clear. Places like Reddit and Discord can be good places to make online friends with common interests, provided these apps are used safely and responsibly. The Internet can be great for connection, but it can also be dangerous if people use it inappropriately. 

I can definitely chat with you on this forum, in the interests of anonymity. I'm here to listen 🙂

SB

[TBear5879]

Yeah, that would be nice. Thank you.