Being weird about diagnosis

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I feel like I've lost a friend since she's known about my diagnosis. On one hand, she was really supportive of me using an AAC.

But, she also does this thing where she says, "o..kay", all long and drawn out. It feels like she is just cataloging any possible social faux pas for some kind of future reference. I'd much rather she just openly joke with me about whatever it was instead. That's the type of social interactions I'm used to. I goof up, everyone chuckles, we move on. But, not now.

I just hate this. It never happened before she knew (she's known for over a year, so I've given it time to settle). She's the only person who has reacted negatively that knows. I want things to just go back to the way they were before.

What is AAC?

If I were you I would ask her if knowing you are on the Spectrum bothers her in any way. She may be insecure about it and not know how to act or respond to you now that she knows.

Augmentative and Assistive Communication.

People on the Spectrum, in order to replace spoken communication, may use a device which "talks for them." The person would type in what he/she wants to say, and the machine would "say the words" for the person.

Thanks kraftiekortie for answering that one!


I might try that. That's a good idea.

She actually knows a LOT about the spectrum and has even hired local speakers to speak about Autism, etc. I guess what's happening, though, is an over-expectation that everything relates to it. I didn't understand something, it's because I have Aspergers. No! Sometimes I just didn't get it. Or, sometimes, the other person just wasn't very clear.

Maybe I could find a way to tell her I just want to go back to the way we used to be. It was a very important friendship for me.

I think you should tell her what you told us. Verbally, if possible.

I think you should tell her how you feel. That you want the two of you back at where you used to be.

This is helpful.

I think I'm not ready yet, though. I think the reason is that I'm afraid she will think nothing is different and I'm only imagining it. And then I will hurt and we won't have solved anything.

(I'm not saying this to not take your advice...in fact, I'm trying to. I just need to work through a few things first. )

Understandable. Only you could know the right time.