Ask HN: Anyone else have symptoms similar to Aspergers?

vonseel · on Jan 8, 2014

Your fears are not uncommon. There are many of us who feel "different" from "normal people" and it's too easy to over-analyze and label our emotions and mental health.

Like you, I have ADHD. Like you, I was misdiagnosed with something ( bipolar disorder, at 16yo ). Like you, I've wondered if my idiosyncrasies are attributed to Aspergers.

In the past, I got caught up with these things. I know a few things: a) I have a classic case of ADHD, b) my ADHD meds appear to stabilize my moods, as I was always a cranky and generally bitter person to be around before I took meds. When I take days off of meds now, that part of me re-emerges. Perhaps the medication makes me calmer and more willing to listen to what other people have to say.

If there's one line of advice I have to give, it's that everything is on a spectrum. I once heard a story about a delusional schizophrenic. A man was standing on the atrium in the psych wards. As each person walked by, he said something along the lines of, "Greetings, ladies and gentlemen! Will you be returning for the show this afternoon? CNN, ABC, CBS, all the broadcasters will be here! Don't forget! At 3 o'clock I give a speech! All the world will be watching!"

I would never advise against seeing an expert if you really have problems. But never forget that everything is on a scale and difficult to measure. There are those who are normal, there are those who are perfect, and there are those with terrible afflictions. Most of us fit somewhere in between ;).

dyscrete · on Jan 9, 2014

Thanks! Very helpful

brudgers · on Jan 5, 2014

Many of the terms used in the psychological self-diagnosis are inconsistent with current clinical standards under DSM-V.

If there are specific areas of concern or behaviors or thought patterns which affect daily life or long term well being, talking to a qualified therapist, such as a psychologist or experienced clinical social worker, might help.

dylanhassinger · on Jan 5, 2014

yes, lots of us

i recommend exercise, paleo diet, 5-htp and occasional cannabis

also this book is good: http://www.amazon.com/Aspergers-Syndrome-Mindfulness-Taking-...

dyscrete · on Jan 5, 2014

I can have bad eating habits sometimes, but I'm under average weight and unable to gain weight. Should I still consider 5-htp since it's an appetite suppressant?

dylanhassinger · on Jan 5, 2014

i wouldn't worry about the appetite suppressant effect. Also exercise (and cannabis) will definitely help with appetite.

Can't stress enough the effects of exercise. Makes your body run better, provides confidence, provides a positive routine to orient your life around, makes girls notice, etc. I do 3 sets of pushups ever other day (started doing this when I was 30, now I'm 34), and it has had a massive effect on virtually everything in my life.

Do not take 5-HTP if you are on any other serotonin-related drugs

dyscrete · on Jan 9, 2014

Ah okay, I'm already taking prescription cannabis.

malloreon · on Jan 5, 2014

Is there a reason you haven't tried to get a proper diagnosis from a medical professional?

AnimalMuppet · on Jan 7, 2014

Stronger: Is there a reason you haven't tried to get a proper diagnosis from a medical professional, but you're accepting advice from random people on the internet? (It is HN, but still...)