Struggling with ADHD and Suspected Autism

I'm struggling a lot right now. I have ADHD and suspected autism. I've been on ADHD medication for a year, and have noticed that my autism symptoms have gotten worse. I used to be able to socialize, but now I struggle to even respond if someone tries to talk to me. I feel like I'm trapped in my own body most of the time at work, but I feel fine at home. I'm thinking it might be a social phobia, or just not having to mask at home. Has anyone else had an experience with this or have any advice for me? I will start seeing my new therapist tomorrow, but I'm not sure how much we'll be able to talk about since it will be an intake appointment.

Your answer

abbz

1y ago

this sounds a lot like how i struggle (and did a lot growing up) socially! something that really helped me (as sucky as it being my only suggestion and not always practical) is working on myself to gain internal confidence!

Entropyluna

1y ago

sorry, I don't mean to sound like I'm dumping my problems on you. There's just so many facets to this situation, and it's almost impossible to explain it all.

Entropyluna

1y ago

I actually don't think I have a problem with self-confidence. Don't get me wrong, I don't think I'm the greatest thing in the world, but I do think that I'm pretty and smart and a hard worker. I've worked really hard for the last several years on liking myself, and I think it's been successful. I don't really have any friends unless you count my husband and my dog. I can be friendly with people at work, but I tend to stop at that. Some people can get a 5 to 10 minute talk about similar interests, and other people are lucky to get a smile and nod. Apparently a couple of employees have complained about me because I'm too robotic and emotionless.

IAmTired247

1y ago

Hello! I have ADHD and autism, been diagnosed at 4! What I can tell you is that, with stress, both of those can get worse and they do feed off of one another. Is there anything stressful in your life happening or about to happen? Birthday? Holiday? Event? Stress can also be subconscious too and you might not even know it too. Another thing is medication. ADHD medication can effect autism. I'm on methylphenidate and it's the only medicine that I have found that does not mess with my autism. I've been on Guanfacine and Clonidine and they have messed with my autism to where I was frequent to outbursts, I shut down a lot, and they ramped up my anxiety. Hopefully you find the right medication and get a diagnosis as both of those things can and will help you! If you are in the USA, I suggest looking at CARD, Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. Avoid Autism Speaks though im sure you know that. Hope this information helps you in your journey! 🤗

Entropyluna

1y ago

thank you for the information! Unfortunately I actually have CPTSD, so I am constantly in a state of stress. I've been wondering recently if my medication is affecting me because the dose is too high. The doctor kept increasing the dose because it seemed like it wasn't working, but I'm starting to realize that a lot of the symptoms it wasn't helping with (and still doesn't help with) could be caused by PTSD and not by ADHD.

Duckyqueen123

1y ago

I haven't been on any ADHD medication but I hear that it can cause your Autism traits forcefully to show through. Try looking away from the person you are talking to and pretend they are someone you are comfortable with. Hope that helps. ☺️

Fun.imaginary.name

1y ago

I don’t have autism but adderall definitely makes me less social, less outgoing, and feel awkward. When I’m normally very outgoing and find it very easy to talk to people

The content in this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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