Autism support group question(S)

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Hey guys,

For some time people have told me that I should go to a local autism support group and I've been brushing it off. As I don't like sitting or being with a large group of people nor do I like to openly talk about my issues I only do so on here as I can maintain some level of anonymity. I've been to some other groups (unrelated to Autism) for other issues I had at various points in my life and I always felt like I was being judge people were thinking that I was simply making stuff up.

I have started thinking about sitting in on session I'm not going in with any preconceived notions that I am better then anybody or they are better then me. Again I don't like the thought of people looking at me or me having to "open up" yea I'd acknowledge that I do have Autism but I dunno what else may be asked. For those whom have attended sessions in person what is it like around how many people are normally at group sessions what topics are normally covered and would be expected of me (if anything).

I'm very much an introverted person. But I would really like to try to talk with somebody around my age and try to gain some knowledge that could better help me understand this disorder better and maybe provide some resources or ideas that will help me while I'm in class.

Don't get me wrong I like this site and I appreciate the knowledge that some of youse have shared with me.

I don't think it's a bad idea.

I think it's a good idea.

At the very least, you will hear from other people with ASDs about their situations - their joys and their sorrows. Their new perspectives may enable you to better handle your own situations, as well.

Definitely, you will have confirmation that you are not alone!

I think it's a good idea; I go to a social skills group once a week that's attended entirely by autistics, save for the instructors, and I love it. I've made some great friends, including my present (and also first) boyfriend. It feels great to be surrounded by people who understand you without you having to explain in detail all the time. I'd recommend it. Go for one session, and if you decide you don't like it, you don't have to go back.

The worst that happens is you don't enjoy yourself and you go home. But if that happens, I find you can still find plenty of support online, just talking about it and sharing experiences with others here and other places, I found, is still rewarding.

Honestly, I definitely don't get uncomfortable at my group - it's helped tremendously. There's little anxiety because everyone is similar to me (AS only, and members tends to be in their 20s), and its led by a psychologist who ensures it remains fairly structured.

There have been many who have joined for a session or two and left. Unless there's any commitment, it might be worth trying.

I go to 3 and each is different. Compared to Wrong Planet it is much more about coping/problem solving the Autism politics. Self diagnosed and people just wondering are accepted in the ones I go to.