I have just been re-reading Rose's moving post an have a genuine question to put to those who really know about these things. Please don't speculate, guess or waffle - Answers from peopel who know what they are talking about only, please.

I am very close to two people who went though what seems to be exactly the same things. Bullied at school, terrified of college - one came home after the first morning, it was so bad! Suicidal tendancies. Difficulties relating to other people. Yet the idea of autism never entered into the equation. Depression, yes. Stress, yes. Severe self esteem issues, yes.

What is it the dividing line between Rose's potential autism and the people who I know. It seems very fine and I am interested in what the distinction is, who makes it, why and whether it makes any difference.

And Rose - Trust me on this because I know - It will get better even though you will take some knocks in the process. Don't worry about those - we all suffer them, it is not just you! And make sure you come back and let us know if it was autism or some other issue that affects you.

Cheers

Dave