If I were a tree mental illness would be layered in each of my rings. It’s not something topical that can be fixed, nor should it. If you take it away I wouldn’t be me.

It’s been over a year since I’ve published a new mental health blog post. During this time my mental health diagnosis has changed.

I am autistic.

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Trees embrace change, so I can too

I’ve realized a lot about myself since receiving my autism diagnosis. My life has changed substantially. I’m healthier and significantly happier because I know how to treat myself.

Most importantly, I’ve learned that I’m not bad at being a person. I’m not broken. I’m autistic.

The typical way of thinking and interacting isn’t the norm for me. Sure, the differences present their own unique struggles. But more importantly the differences are what make me who I am.

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What I need

I hope the news of my autism diagnosis helps the people around me. I hope you can be more consciousness and understanding of my needs. I want you to understand that your typical way of thinking and interacting isn’t the norm for me. My mind doesn’t work like yours. And that’s okay.

I deserve consideration and patience from the people around me. I hope you can respect and appreciate my unique differences.

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You matter

I want you to know that you matter. Even when life seems confusing and all over the place — you are not broken. You are worthy.

If you are reading this — thank you so very much, from the bottom of my heart. I truly appreciate you. I want you to keep living, and keep reading. You matter to me.

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Closing

The realization that I have autism didn’t come over night. It took years of appointments with my family practice doctor, the support of my friends, tons of therapy appointments, and a bunch of self-growth.

Moving forward I want to share more with you. I want to get back to blogging. I want to continue writing about my mind and mental health. I want to share about my struggles; depression, autistic burnout, overstimulation, autistic meltdowns, and the absolute exhaustion that comes from masking. I want to tell you about all the things I see differently; hugging, soft touching, fabric textures, sounds, social interactions, sarcasm, and so much more… I want to talk about it. Because it’s me, and I’m enough.

Sincerely, Elizabeth
Uncustomary Housewife