Hey everyone! I want to share my experience with accepting my autism because I know many of you might relate to this journey. It’s been a wild ride, and I hope it gives you a bit of hope, too!
I was diagnosed with autism when I was just 11, and honestly, it felt like my world turned upside down. At first, I didn’t really understand what it meant. I laughed it off, thinking it was just a label that wouldn’t change anything. But it did. I started to feel different, and not always in a good way. I noticed that people looked at me differently, like I was some sort of puzzle they couldn’t solve. It made me feel scared and anxious.
The hardest part was the fear of being judged. I thought everyone would see me differently, and that I’d be all alone in this battle. But everything changed when I discovered some amazing people on Instagram. I began to follow other autistic individuals and realized I wasn’t alone—there were others with the same struggles and experiences! It felt like finding a family I never knew I needed. The stories and support I found there made a huge difference in how I viewed myself.
It took me a full year, but I finally reached a point where I could say, “I’m autistic,” without feeling ashamed. I remember the first time I said it out loud to a friend; I felt liberated! It was like taking off a heavy backpack filled with rocks. I started embracing the idea that autism is part of who I am but doesn’t define me. Learning to accept myself was tough, but it’s also been one of the best things I’ve done for myself.
Now, the journey of acceptance isn’t just about being okay with autism; it’s also about unmasking—removing the layers I’ve put on to fit in. For a long time, I felt like I had to hide my true self to be accepted. I masked my behaviors and interests so people wouldn’t judge me. But I’ve come to realize that unmasking is about embracing who I really am, quirks and all. It's freeing to let my true self shine!
What do we want for my next blog post? Put in comments under this post or DM on my instagram 🌟
To anyone who’s struggling with acceptance: you are not alone! It’s okay to take your time. Surround yourself with supportive people, whether online or offline, and remember that it’s a journey, one that is full of ups and downs. You can find hope and strength; it’s all part of discovering who you are.
I’m excited to share more of my story, and I hope it helps you feel a little more connected and hopeful. We can embrace ourselves together, one step at a time!
Remember your worth,
Summer-Rose H xxx
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