Subject: Seeking Advice on Sharing My Autism Diagnosis with Professors
Hi everyone,
I hope this is okay to post here.
I’m wondering how best to share with my professors that I have autism and bipolar disorder. I’ve noticed that some of them find my behaviors a bit unusual, and I feel it would help if they understood my condition. Should I reach out via email, or would it be better to discuss this in person?
I’ve submitted assignments late at times, and while I do receive accommodations for exams and utilize them, I’m concerned about how my behavior might be perceived. I’m not asking for special treatment; I just want my professors to know what contributes to my nervousness and my sometimes awkward demeanor. I often feel uncomfortable needing to seek help during office hours and want them to understand the reasons behind this.
Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated! Thank you.
It’s great that you’re considering sharing your experiences with your professors; this can help foster understanding and support. Here are a few things to consider:
Choose the Right Time and Place: If you’re more comfortable with in-person conversations, consider approaching your professors during office hours when they are typically more available to listen. If you prefer writing, an email can be just as effective.
Keep It Simple: You don’t need to share every detail. A brief explanation about having autism and bipolar disorder and how it affects your learning and communication can be enough. You could say something like, “I wanted to share that I have autism and bipolar disorder, which sometimes makes it challenging for me in class. I appreciate your patience as I work through certain situations.”
Focus on the Positive: You can emphasize that you’re committed to your learning and seeking help when needed. Mentioning that you’re utilizing your accommodations shows you’re proactive about managing your education.
Be Open to Questions: Your professors may have questions or want to understand better. Being open to discussions can help them to better support you.
Reassure Them: It’s okay to convey that you don’t expect special treatment. You just want them to have a better understanding of your situation.
Seek Support: If you’re nervous, you might find it helpful to discuss this with a trusted advisor or counselor at your school who can guide you through the process.
Ultimately, sharing your condition can lead to a more supportive learning environment. Remember, you’re not alone in this, and many people appreciate honesty and vulnerability. Good luck!