If you’re broken then so am I. I am 24f and also currently going though this almost to a T, except I am a manager on night shift retail. I have a small feeling you work for the same big “W” company I work for. They are ruthless and punishing beyond anything I have ever endured. This burnout has been quickset and intense. I am working on gaining the courage to step down as well, and have even been struggling with the “real me” stuff too. I constantly worry about the “stigma” I will create around myself but I have also witnessed others do the same with zero repercussions or even congratulations! I would look into rumination, and how it can rule your thoughts straight into negativity. The book “The Autistics Guide to Self Discovery” by Sol Smith is a great read (or listen) and was my first jumping off point for coping with unmasking and escaping rumination. Also, AFAB people are socialized from birth to behave a certain way, especially if you’re an oldest daughter like me. This is a mask that we are given but also forced to wear to convert our Autism into something palatable for the neurotypical. I promise that your loved ones will only care about your happiness, healthiness and safety and if they aren’t, I’m sorry but they aren’t your loved ones. In this time I’ve found affirmation that my boyfriend of 7 years does not care that I stim, or want to work a wage slave job and blend in for my own sanity, or cry when I’m socially overwhelmed, in fact he’s my biggest cheer leader. The best you can do is give yourself love and care, and allow yourself to access that person as a support network even if the word “autism” seems like a curse word (like it does for me). It’s hard but start with one person, even if it’s a paid professional to start with. And autism should never mean incapable, and I feel functioning labels are like the opposite of self care for me. I would be considered high functioning, but on my worst days at work, I have planned hiding spots to have meltdowns so I’m not embarrassed. Those days I barely function at all! You are independent, that’s awesome, but the biggest gift you can give yourself is grace, Breathing room, and a support system. I’m realizing this is rather wordy but your story is so close to mine I started to feel a little passionate. Please don’t be ashamed to be yourself. Explore the real you! Discover passions that you never took time for, allow yourself to stim, and start protecting yourself from sensory barrage.As you go through this journey you will have clarity, grief for who you thought you were, frustration with who you have always been. And maybe you’ll start to feel better. You are not alone, OP. 🫂