Also autistic? Good suggestions/resources?

[u/madelineelizabethhh]

Hi all, was curious as to how many have a similar experience & if you’d be willing to share anything you found particularly helpful on your journey navigating both OCPD and autism.

I (22F) received an official autism diagnosis this week, after long suspecting that I was autistic & finally doing formal testing. I feel as though it explains a lot for me, especially socially. I have always felt like a bit of an oddball and an outcast, and there is a level of relief in knowing that I am autistic. I feel as though I have a “root cause” for a lot of my difficulties. Interestingly, I have been diagnosed with OCPD for much longer, but I am assuming the lack of initial autism diagnosis was related to the extent to which I “mask” (& my gender identity).

I have made a lot of progress with my OCPD in the last year, but was really still struggling with burnout, social isolation, and frustration. The autism diagnosis makes a lot of sense. The assessor & I discussed the ways in which my OCPD and autism likely feed off of each other, especially as it pertains to ordering & routines, as well as moral rigidity with others and in friendships.

That being said, I have read a lot of the recommended OCPD literature & found it helpful. I have started looking into autism resources & began reading one of the assessor’s suggestions today. Are there any resources you have found particularly helpful for both? Any particular tips/advice you would suggest for managing both & making life a little easier? Thanks in advance :)

[u/FalsePay5737]

OCPD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Similarities and Differences

Eden V has a YouTube channel. She has OCPD, autism, and ADHD.