I feel your pain. Almost daily. I just have to keep my head up. Some days are better than others. Some days as you know can be very exhausting. I am glad I found this site. I am new. I know just reading stuff on here sometimes helps. It reminds me I'm not alone. Hugs.

I can relate somewhat to your situation. My mother and husband are the biggest support system that I have. My sister I feel really let down by. she has two daughters and I have always been there for her and them no matter what because I love them so much, but I do not feel the same towards my son. I barely get a call from her asking about his well being and when I do speak with her and tell her about his progress, I feel as if she is implying that I am not doing enough. She just doesn't get it. She has always been self centered so maybe its just not about my son and its just her personality. But it hurts sometimes when I think about it. My in-laws try their best to stay involved and I am grateful for that. I recently told one of my closest friends about my sons diagnosis and she responded like I hoped she would! she is the best!

Big hugs Meg. Thank you for sharing your story. It sounds like it's extra hard because you are actually living with a lot of people, and on surface level seems like you should have some support. Feeling alone when you are surrounded with people is not a fun feeling. I've been there. I think redbook had a good idea about a support group in your area. But also, I think your family needs some help with their perception. I would be honest about your feelings to - maybe your brother?- who you were close to.
When you talk to him though, try not to talked about what everyone else is doing wrong. Try to just share your story. Your feelings. Your experiences in loneliness and isolation and your strong desire to connect and be apart of the family still. If you come pointing fingers his defenses will go up. If you come from a vulnerable, real, genuine place about what is happening in your world it could be powerful perception switch for your brother. Stories are powerful. Love to you Meggs. You're strong and you deserve support in your life.

it is so frustrating and you can feel alone. I am lucky that I have such supportive friends and family, but they just don't understand. I too often find myself crying and feeling so alone, we can't do the same things, we can't go the same places, we may have tantrums etc....hang in there and if you ever want to talk i'm here....we're all in this together!

So sorry that you're dealing with this. Living in the same house with unsupportive family must be really tough. Are there any parent support groups in your area for families on the spectrum? Talking and meeting people who understand helps. Maybe you could reach out to other parents in your child's class. Sounds like you could really use some respite care.

We've had a mixed reaction from relatives. Some understanding and supportive. Some just don't truly accept the diagnosis.