My journey, My superpower 💕

Hey, today I wanted to share what it's like to grow up without a autism diagnosis until I was 11!!

Growing up, I always felt like I was on a different wavelength than those around me. It wasn’t the usual “I’m unique” feeling; it was something deeper. Many people tried to explain my differences away, attributing them to parenting or labeling me as a brat. But I wasn’t a brat—I just needed a little more love, time, and understanding.

Moving from one school to another—six primary schools in total—wasn't just a logistical challenge; it was emotionally exhausting. Each new place felt like a fresh start, but it came with the weight of trying to fit into environments where I often felt isolated. Bullying shadowed my early years, making friendships a daunting mountain to climb. The struggle to connect left me feeling like an outsider.

As I transitioned to secondary school, things became even more challenging. I couldn't maintain friendships, and I often felt overwhelmed. This chaos led me to a dark place, one that I rarely discuss. I used to self-harm, a secret I kept hidden because of the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding it. It was a coping mechanism during times when everything felt too much to bear. But those moments also marked the turning point in my life.

Recognizing that I needed a different path, I made the brave decision to leave senior school and embrace homeschooling. It was a leap into the unknown—a chance to create an environment where I could truly thrive without the constant pressure of social expectations.

Today, as I reflect on my journey, I’ve come to see my experiences as my superpower. They have equipped me with unique insights into compassion, empathy, and understanding. I’ve learned the importance of providing support for others who may be struggling, whether they are neurodiverse or not.

Though the road has been rocky, I choose to embrace my differences as strengths. I hope to shine a light on the beauty of neurodiversity and remind everyone that sometimes, the world just needs to take a moment, breathe, and look at things from a different angle.

Thank you for taking the time to join me on this journey. I can’t wait to share more as I continue to grow and explore the wonderful world around me.

Remember your worth,

Summer-Rose H xx