How An Autism Diagnosis Changed My Life

Living with autism is not easy. It brings unique challenges and struggles, but it also offers incredible opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Let me take you on a journey of how an autism diagnosis has completely transformed my life.

The Beginning

I was diagnosed with autism at the age of five. At that time, I didn't fully comprehend what it meant or how it would shape my life. My parents, however, were determined to provide me with all the support and resources I needed to thrive.

Being on the autistic spectrum means that my brain works differently than others. I may struggle with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, and repetitive behavior patterns. But I also possess incredible gifts, such as enhanced attention to detail, a unique perspective on the world, and deep focus on my passions.

Late Bloomer: How an Autism Diagnosis Changed My Life

by Clem Bastow (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3086 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	271 pages

FREE

The Challenges

Throughout my childhood and teenage years, I faced numerous challenges that stemmed from my autism. School was particularly difficult, as I often felt overwhelmed by the constant social demands and sensory stimuli. Yet, with the help of educators and therapists who understood my needs, I managed to navigate those challenges and achieve academic success.

But it wasn't just school. Everyday activities that most people take for granted, like shopping at a busy store or attending a party, were anxiety-inducing experiences for me. The sensory overload, coupled with the struggle to understand social cues, made me feel like an outsider.

The Turning Point

Despite the difficulties I faced, my autism diagnosis served as a turning point in my life. It allowed me to embrace my unique qualities and find avenues where I could excel. I discovered that my intense focus and attention to detail made me a natural problem solver and a skilled artist.

Art became my escape, my sanctuary. Through painting and drawing, I expressed my thoughts and emotions in ways that words couldn't. Art provided me with a voice when I struggled to communicate verbally. It became a channel for self-expression and self-discovery.

Embracing My Differences

As I grew older, I learned to embrace my differences rather than see them as limitations. I sought out communities of like-minded individuals who shared similar experiences. Connecting with fellow autistics and hearing their journeys helped me gain a sense of belonging and acceptance.

With this newfound confidence, I started advocating for autism awareness and acceptance. I shared my story through public speaking engagements, art exhibitions, and online platforms. By doing so, I hoped to inspire others to embrace their differences and pursue their passions without fear or shame.

Finding Purpose and Fulfillment

While my journey with autism hasn't been without its difficulties, it has also brought me immense purpose and fulfillment. As I continued to engage with the autism community, I discovered my passion for helping others on the spectrum.

I pursued a career in mental health counseling with a focus on autism, aiming to support individuals and families on their own unique journeys. I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of therapy and support networks, and I am committed to making a positive impact in the lives of those affected by autism.

An Ongoing Journey

Today, I embrace every facet of my autistic identity. It continues to shape who I am and how I view the world. Living with autism is not always easy, but it has both challenged and enriched my life in ways I never anticipated.

My journey is ongoing, full of ups and downs, successes and setbacks. Yet through it all, I am grateful for the diagnosis that opened doors to self-discovery, self-acceptance, and a deeper understanding of life's complexities.

An autism diagnosis changed my life. It presented me with unique challenges, but also with opportunities for growth, self-expression, and a sense of purpose. I have learned to embrace my differences, share my story, and advocate for autism acceptance. Living with autism has given me a profound appreciation for the beauty of neurodiversity.

If you or someone you love has recently received an autism diagnosis, remember that it is just the beginning of a new chapter. Embrace your journey, seek support, and never forget that your unique perspective has the power to change the world.

Late Bloomer: How an Autism Diagnosis Changed My Life

by Clem Bastow (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3086 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	271 pages

FREE

Introducing a bold new voice in Australian nonfiction, Late Bloomer is a heartfelt coming-of-age memoir that will change the way you think about autism.  

Clem Bastow grew up feeling like she’d missed a key memo on human behaviour. She found the unspoken rules of social engagement confusing, arbitrary and often stressful. Friendships were hard, relationships harder, and the office was a fluorescent-lit nightmare of anxiety. It wasn’t until Clem was diagnosed as autistic, at age 36, that things clicked into focus. 

The obsession with sparkly things and dinosaurs. The encyclopaedic knowledge of popular music. The meltdowns that would come on like a hurricane. The ability to write eloquently while conquering basic maths was like trying to understand ancient Greek. These weren’t just ‘personality quirks’ but autistic traits that shaped Clem’s life in powerful ways. 

With wit and warmth, Clem reflects as an autistic adult on her formative experiences as an undiagnosed young person, from the asphalt playground of St Joseph's Primary School in Melbourne to working as an entertainment journalist in Hollywood. Along the way she challenges the broader cultural implications and ideas around autism, especially for women and gender-diverse people. Deconstructing the misconceptions and celebrating the realities of autistic experience, Late Bloomer is as heartbreaking as it is hilarious, and will stay with you long after the reading.