Last week I wrote about the best and worst reactions to me disclosing my Autism, and I got two useful pieces of feedback as a result. A friend slightly nervously approached me about whether or not I was writing about them, which made me realize I have to be more careful with how I write about my life. I don’t want to scare my friends! I hereby swear to do my utmost to talk to people before I include them in my blogs even though it scares the bejesus out of me.

Secondly, someone asked what I had expected when I told people. After all, hadn’t I only just learned about Autism and how it presents in women? Good point! This reader also pointed out that disclosing can be most useful when it is relevant, for instance when you need extra time to process information.

Since I wrote this I’ve been wondering about your experiences. What have been the most unhelpful things your friends, family, colleagues and frenemies have said? What are the most helpful ways people can respond if they want to be supportive?

What do you say when you hear a friend or colleague is Autistic?

How do you wish people would react?

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