Nov 15 2008
Online Support Groups for Aspergers
One of the first things I noticed after my daughter was diagnosed with Aspergers was how alone and different I felt. Even though I knew others had Aspergers I had never actually heard anyone speak of it or knew of anyone who had Aspergers. Trying to go through daily experiences where I felt I was the only one in the whole world having these problems with my daughter was a nightmare! During my research to learn more about Aspergers Syndrome I came across a Yahoo Group www.MomsOfAspergersGirls@yahoogroups.com which focuses on asking questions and relaying experiences to help eachother. When I joined I had a million questions. I now am able to read daily posts and respond to questions others ask as well as post questions and new information I find to this site. What was the best part was to find that others are going through exactly the same things I am.
We have discussed things from social skills problems, stories about social interactions, obsessions, medications, diagnosis, school and teacher difficulties, family interactions, explaining Aspergers to others, favorite activities, technology equipment and aides, websites, motor skills difficulties, peer conflicts, books & videos, doctors, eating and sleeping habits, new research and information, depression, multiple diagnosis, and more.
Most importantly we share our own personal feelings as parents with the struggles and pains we have experienced as we try to move forward day to day. It is always easier to face something new, different and maybe even freightening when you have others walking hand in hand with you. I have found that whenever I post a question there is always someone to reply even if just to say they understand and have been there. It is nice to not be alone!
I have found several other Aspergers Support Groups and chatrooms which look simular to the group I am a part of. Check out these groups as well to find a support system that works for you.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/autism_aspergers_chat
http://www.cafemom.com (sign up and then search in groups under Aspergers)
