About two weeks ago, I was hopitialized for depression and spent four days in a psychiatric ward. During this time, and afterward, I was diagnosed with major depressive disorder, general anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and a very high likelyhood of Asperger's syndrome. From my understanding, depression and anxiety have a high comorbidity (or often occur with) Asperger's.
Now I'm under the care of several doctors and am slowly recovering from my time in the hospital. There is still a large amount of stigma in society when it comes to mental illness, and I thought sharing my diagnosis might help encourage others to seek help. I know that I should have sought help earlier for my mental problems, and waiting so long probably contributed to my stay at the hospital.
I want to give back, and to help people understand Asperger's syndrome, a part of the autism disorders spectrum. I know knitter's are some of the most generous people out there, and I'm the asking the next time you're thinking about giving to charity, think of Austim Speaks. Autism Speaks is an incredible charity that is "dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families." I'll also be putting a permanent link on the blog.
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I am so sorry you have had a rough time. I have an anxiety disorder and suffer from depression as well, so I know what you are going through. You aren't the only one and I will be praying for you. (((HUGS)))
ReplyDeletesending you strength and applauding your courage.
ReplyDeleteas someone who suffers from both depression and anxiety i appreciate you bringing the conversation to the forefront.
Missing you a lot, you are in my prayers
ReplyDeleteI hope that you are getting all the care that you need. My little guy who is six years old was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome a few years ago. On top of that, he also has ADHD. Luckily, his early diagnosis has resulted in getting early interventions at school. I think that one of the hardest things for families dealing with autism is the sense of social isolation that surrounds the disorder. Hopefully, organizations like Autism Speaks will make more people understand and be aware. I am keeping you in my thoughts. If you need to talk, my username on ravelry is autumngeisha.
ReplyDeleteI've only just found your blog. I think you will find the internet an amazingly supportive place as you find your path through your diagnosis and learning to live with it. I do think it is harder when you don't get diagnosed early on, but I'm sure as you seem a bright woman you will find ways of making changes in your life to help you cope more easily. I look forward to reading more of your posts in the future.
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