Anonymous Autistic

What's your question?
I just got diagnosed with autism and I'm worried people will treat me differently once I tell them or worse, not believe me. I'm high functioning on the spectrum and don't fit into the autistic stereotype. I don't want to hide this big part of me from the people I'm close and I want them to know so they can help me with my diagnosis but I'm scared they won't take it well. Help?

Mr. Bobcat:

Dear Anonymous Autistic,
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Please understand that you are a person with autism, not autistic. Autism doesn't define who you are as a person. You need to remember you are the same person that you were before your diagnosis. As far as telling people, I think you could just ease into it and show them that you’re the same person you were. It might take some time to show that or for them to realize that, but if they are true friends, they will love you regardless, and they will accept you. It might be hard for a little bit with them, but if you don’t act different, why would they? It might take time for them to realize that, but all you need to do is be patient and remember you are loved.