Changes with Annie Macmanus Katherine May
Aug 8, 2022
Katherine May, an author known for 'Wintering' and 'The Electricity of Every Living Thing', shares her inspiring journey of self-discovery after her late autism diagnosis. She discusses embracing her autistic identity and the profound relief that understanding brought her. Katherine highlights the soothing power of nature, especially the sea, in her mental health journey. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by autistic women and the importance of community and personal boundaries in navigating identity and well-being.
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Instant Recognition of Autism
- Katherine May describes the exact moment she recognized she was autistic while listening to a woman on the radio.
- It was an instant, magical feeling of sameness and identity that changed her self-understanding.
Walking Opened Minds to Change
- Long solitary walks created a mental space where Katherine became open to radical self-change.
- Physical exhaustion helped break down her old perceptions, enabling transformation.
Decades of Misdiagnosis and Struggle
- Katherine faced numerous misdiagnoses including ME, fibromyalgia, and depression from a young age.
- She was wrongly accused of faking illness which deepened her distress and misunderstanding.
