Free Woman

Date posted: 22h

Autism/OCD

Anyone else have a dual diagnosis of OCD and autism? I've known for years that I have OCD, but was just diagnosed last year with autism level 1. I am trying to unravel and untwist the tangled threads on my brain and just wondered if anyone else out there can relate! I'm a 53 year old female and just starting the process of therapy for OCD/autism and coming to grips with why I've always felt so different and really struggled with loneliness and isolation my whole life.

AllisonRojas

Date posted: 19h

I have an OCD diagnosis and my therapist was like “heyyyyy have you ever been evaluated for autism? Seems like that might be worth looking into.” Well that had never come up for me in my entire life! I was a little taken aback but then I started reading about autism and omg. Felt like I was reading the story of my life. Then completely unrelated my kid was recently referred for evaluation. So I guess I’ll be pursuing an evaluation now for myself but I feel pretty safe in saying I most likely have ASD. I can totally relate to what you’re saying about feeling different and lonely and isolated. If I could use only three words to sum up my existence those would be the ones. I really wish you all the best! I think it’s never too late to learn more about ourselves and find the support we need to thrive and be happy. I’m proud of you for having the courage to pursue answers and seek help. 🫶

Free Woman

Date posted: 17h

Thank you so much for the kind words! Im grateful to find some community here!

sophea

Date posted: 21h

Wow, that's a long time to go without understanding why you feel that way! I'm a 19-year-old woman, and I was diagnosed with autism (also level 1) at 13 and OCD at 17. I felt the same loneliness and confusion my entire childhood, and I can't image it going on for another 40 years. It's so wonderful and scary to feel like you finally understand yourself.

Free Woman

Date posted: 21h

Yes!! Thank you for responding and letting me know Im not alone.

MeganE

Date posted: 20h

@sophea Wonderful and scary is such a good way to describe it!

Kai on the Wall

User type: OCD Conqueror

Date posted: 21h

Yes, I'm a woman in my early 20s; I got diagnosed with OCD several years ago and then with autism level 1 earlier this year. I've been socially isolated my whole life, so your experience is relatable

Free Woman

Date posted: 21h

Thank you for responding. Sometimes we are less alone than we think. Im sorry others are struggling in the same ways I am, but also reminded Im not the only one

MeganE

Date posted: 20h

Yes! Hello! Similar situation over here. I am 29 and was diagnosed with ASD L1 two years ago. OCD was a more recent diagnosis but both (especially autism) were highly suspected since I was about 7 years old. It is A LOT to process one diagnosis, let alone multiple. I am still coming to grips with both diagnosis, working to unmask and work hard at ERP to get some quality of life back. It takes time but we will get there with hard work and patience. I have faith. You aren’t alone. I am happy you are here and we are in this together!

Karb101

Date posted: 21h

Im a 45year old female and just got diagnosed with ocd. Im just trying to figure out how you can get tested for autism?

sophea

Date posted: 21h

@Karb101 Autism can only be diagnosed through a complete psychological evaluation. These can only be given by psychologists or psychiatrists and are rather expensive if you're paying out of pocket.

Karb101

Date posted: 21h

@sophea Yes thats been my struggles without health insurance most of my life. I think my 5 year old has it and I want to get him help too. Can take care of yourself very well if you cant afford it.

sophea

Date posted: 21h

@Karb101 - Is your 5-year-old starting school in the fall? If so, you can probably get them referred through the school. A school aged child is the easiest time to get a diagnosis.

Karb101

Date posted: 21h

@Karb101 *can't

Karb101

Date posted: 21h

@sophea He was supposed to but he refuses to potty train and freaks out and idk what to do. Still struggling with it. Hes so behind in everything and I didn't want him to go to school like that and he only eats certain things etc

sophea

Date posted: 21h

@Karb101 - Well, it's clear I don't know anything you don't. I'm so sorry your family is going through this 🫂

AllisonRojas

Date posted: 19h

@Karb101 I’m in the same exact situation with my son. Extreme picky eater, won’t potty train, and falling behind. We wanted to start him in a preschool program this fall but it doesn’t look like he’ll be ready for it. It’s really tough when we do all we can and it feels like it’s not enough. I wish you the best and I hope you’re able to find the resources you need for your family 🩷

Karb101

Date posted: 19h

@AllisonRojas Thank you its tough when you're struggling with your own issues on top of your children and financially. Just glad im not the only one too

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