How do I address an adult sibling's possible Asperger's Sydrome?

1. 61

   nlowmanposted 15 years ago

   How do I address an adult sibling's possible Asperger's Sydrome?
   
   We have a younger brother who has been diagnosed, and I think he may be an Aspie as well. It might be beneficial for him to be diagnosed and at least understand his disorder, if he in fact has it.

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2. 0

   Phoebe Pikeposted 15 years ago

   You could tell him it wouldn't hurt to check his current state of health. Also, there are current types of tea that can help symptoms, a lot of doctors suggest the teas to people with current symptoms because it is manageable. You could also suggest that it is setting a good example for your younger sibling.

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3. 60

   Jaggedfrostposted 15 years ago

   Maybe you should find out if they are miserable.  Then ask yourself how close you wish to be to them and how much you are willing to invest in the issue.  The first point will tell you whether they are ready to be helped and how productive trying to help them might be.  The second will tell you how far you will be willing to go to bring them the parts of their life that they lack.  It also might be worth remembering that it isn't a sickness or a mental disease per say but a biological condition that almost cant be treated by medications unless you want to chemically sedate them.

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4. 47

   ktktmmposted 15 years ago

   I agree with JaggedFrost. Will he use a diagnosis to improve his life or resent your interference?  Asperger's seems to run through our whole family. Some in our family feel threatened when faced with the "label" of a diagnosis; they get angry & insulted. Some feel discouraged or hopeless.  Others see it as an indicator pointing them in the right direction to find the kind of help they need.
   For my resistant family members, I just send them updates of our Aspie boys, symptoms & nutritional things that work & let the family decide for themselves if any of it would be helpful for them.
   I sometimes send books or articles which help explain our boys difficulties, in hopes that they will also see their own similarities.
   Take it slow and easy & don't push.Many people are more persuaded when they believe they "discovered it for themselves".

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5. 58

   bloominglilyposted 14 years ago

   I just wrote about this, it is gentic. Try to get him medically cleared. Decide what to do from there.
   The best of luck to you and your family

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