Megan talks about her experiences

 Hi, my name is Megan, and I was diagnosed as autistic in 2020 after originally being assessed for a personality disorder in the months beforehand. My diagnosis came quite quickly after it first being mentioned, just 3 months later, meaning I didn't have much time to fully process it all. 2 years after my diagnosis, I was also diagnosed with ADHD. Both of which were the missing pieces of the puzzle as to why I struggled so much.

I found school hard, and I did not have many friends. Due to my undiagnosed autism and ADHD, I constantly found myself in trouble. I was suspended quite a few times, spending time in a PRU due to my teachers not understanding my struggles or behaviours, meaning I only left with 1 GCSE. I also struggled with college, dropping out on three separate occasions.

I've struggled with my mental health for quite a while, which meant I ended up not leaving my flat for months and ending up in hospital quite a few times. I lost all my friends and felt like I had nobody left.

Since joining AWP, I've made so many new friends, done things I'd never have dreamed I'd ever do (even holding a goat!) and most importantly found the support and guidance I've needed my whole life. I've learnt how to recognise my emotions, my feelings, and how to unmask.