Page 1 of 1 [ 8 posts ] 

n3v3rm0r3
Yellow-bellied Woodpecker
Yellow-bellied Woodpecker

User avatar

Joined: 23 Aug 2011
Age: 43
Gender: Male
Posts: 55

25 Aug 2011, 12:22 am

I've been out of high school for 11 years and will be starting university in September. I'm extremely nervous about changing my routine, I get very agitated and freeze up when faced with a new situation. It's so overwhelming. The bus route is one I never take, it's a new experience with new people in a new place. I just want to run away...no that would ruin my routine!

Any tips on adapting new things and accepting changes?
The last big change I experienced went very badly, I became so fearful I couldn't leave my house.



orchidee
Blue Jay
Blue Jay

User avatar

Joined: 31 May 2011
Age: 34
Gender: Female
Posts: 77

25 Aug 2011, 12:28 am

One tip that might help with the bus route: if it's possible, can you take it before the first day of school, at least one time? That way, you'll be comfortable with the routine more than you would be otherwise, and it will feel more natural. I also like to time new routines, so I know generally how long it will take me to go through them.



n3v3rm0r3
Yellow-bellied Woodpecker
Yellow-bellied Woodpecker

User avatar

Joined: 23 Aug 2011
Age: 43
Gender: Male
Posts: 55

25 Aug 2011, 2:16 am

I think that's exactly what I'm going to do. Take my bus routes everyday until school starts, then I have one less thing to freak out about.



Moopants
Raven
Raven

User avatar

Joined: 30 Sep 2010
Age: 51
Gender: Female
Posts: 122
Location: UK

25 Aug 2011, 3:50 am

I've been to Uni before but am returning many years later. It's the same Uni but I live in a different place so am really anxious about the journey. I know it well but that doesn't help much. I'm also twice the age of most students, more likely ages with their parents. Academically I have no worries but socially I do.

I know that doesn't help much but just wanted you to know you're not alone!



DW_a_mom
Veteran
Veteran

User avatar

Joined: 22 Feb 2008
Gender: Female
Posts: 13,689
Location: Northern California

26 Aug 2011, 12:48 am

Is there someone who can make some of the trial trips with you? My son is, of course, a lot younger than you, but he likes having a comfortable person accompany him on test drives.

You should also explore a little around campus ahead of time, checking out places to eat, making sure you know where all the classes are, etc.

Good luck!


_________________
Mom to an amazing young adult AS son, plus an also amazing non-AS daughter. Most likely part of the "Broader Autism Phenotype" (some traits).


n3v3rm0r3
Yellow-bellied Woodpecker
Yellow-bellied Woodpecker

User avatar

Joined: 23 Aug 2011
Age: 43
Gender: Male
Posts: 55

26 Aug 2011, 1:56 am

My ex used to do trial runs to new places with me until I got comfortable, unfortunately I haven't anyone to practice with this time. I talked to my brother about my fears though as he's a lot like me and shares similar fears and anxieties. He was very supportive and understanding which made me feel less weird. He also suggested trial runs. Oddly even though I know trial runs, creating a new routine ahead of time will be beneficial I'm scared of them too! I'm going to push myself and do it anyway starting tomorrow. Once the fear is faced I know I'll realize it's not so bad.



DW_a_mom
Veteran
Veteran

User avatar

Joined: 22 Feb 2008
Gender: Female
Posts: 13,689
Location: Northern California

26 Aug 2011, 10:17 am

Good for you for facing your fears! The advantage with trial runs is you can take the fears on one at a time, pace it as suits you. I wish you the best of luck re-integrating to academics!


_________________
Mom to an amazing young adult AS son, plus an also amazing non-AS daughter. Most likely part of the "Broader Autism Phenotype" (some traits).


n3v3rm0r3
Yellow-bellied Woodpecker
Yellow-bellied Woodpecker

User avatar

Joined: 23 Aug 2011
Age: 43
Gender: Male
Posts: 55

26 Aug 2011, 12:58 pm

Today I tried my new bus route. I woke up late and missed the bus! I figured I should wait for the next one and give it a try anyway. I still managed to get there with enough time to make it to class which pleased me. The route is quite easy and I feel silly now for worry so much. Monday I'm going to do it again, on time and actually go to the appropriate classroom before returning home.

I was so nervous about it this morning I almost didn't do it, now I'm glad I did.