@Jimi

Not to diminish any of the other bits you said but the following made me laugh out loud as I can relate:

"Now they ask if they drop me off two blocks away from my home, will I get lost?"

Apparently, it is now known that I 'don't like' unfamiliar routes... which is bs, I've always enjoyed exploring... I just don't like people, so in everyday situations I stick to routes that are less busy.

With regards to what you said about writing... this definitely resonated a cord with me. Prior to my diagnosis I loved writing poetry (whether it was any good was irrelevant) and dabbling with creative writing... But I too took a big knock to confidence due the misconception you mentioned... and I guess it did become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

I am lucky in regards to still having friends that I had before (of high intellectual ability) but they do treat me with kid gloves a little... worried that I might break or something... it loosens up after a while (but the first hour can be hard going).

And on the flip of the coin, I've been attending social events with others who have Asperger's... and without meaning to sound pretentious, I find that I am also not being tested, nor am I exactly with like minded 'peers'. It has become glaringly evident how different those with Asperger's are depending on when they were diagnosed; In this I mean those who are diagnosed at a young age compared to a late life one... I for one know that I have developed filters of what is acceptable around neurotypicals because I had to having been in mainstream education. If that makes sense?

What you've written has given me a lot to digest, thanks. I didn't consider it rambling

@StarGazingFish, thanks for your reply. Fantastic to hear that things improved for you re your diagnostic level (gives me hope ). I know what you're referring to re person centered approach and I personally prefer that route (when given it, I've surprised those who are working with me due to my insight). Psychiatrists can be very hit and miss... have met those who are not full of themselves.... and plenty of those who are lol. Have you considered requesting a change?