Hi ! I have a comment to Julia Moore (9-10-07) Dear Julia: I was diagnosed w/ASP about 4 or 5 years ago, and am also in a clerical job, having problems; I have always HAD problems with jobs, as they have been within organizations. The difference? I am 54! But I have a support person specializing in employment support - being very fortunate there. My biggest problem is in "reading" what others are saying/indicating w/body language, & knowing what is expected of me. I have trouble generalizing. Working in a hospital, (even a lame one like mine, going through management problems!) I can say: listen, I have perception difficulties, can you please explain this to me, spell it out so I can make a "rule" to follow? Perhaps you can try that approach with your supervisor, if they are at all understanding. Let me know how you are doing. And cheer up! You found out early you had Aspergers -- I only found out after I was 45!!! Knowledge is power -- you can have insight on the way you think, and understand yourself better. This is a very good thing, trust me. It is better than going for years clueless, or having people not believe you, because your 'symptoms' were a little this, a little that, with no consistency! Does Michigan have any sort of state insurance if you fall under a minimum income? Do you qualify? Does it have psych counseling benefits? Maybe, if you checked with a reference librarian, they might help you find out -- they are often helpful whereas official people don't take the extra time to help us out. Good luck. (I think I said that, sorry for repeating, I do that).
Carol