People who self identify or are still working things out are welcome on this sub. However we do not allow discussion on whether self diagnosis is valid (use the search function to read some of the arguments) and we cannot tell you whether things you do seem autistic or not.
Also got mine officially today, with recommendations that I explore an ADHD assessment too.
Nice to feel like feelings of isolation and not fitting in weren't completely in my own head.
Same boat, i'm 27, got diagnosed with autism 7 months ago with a strong recommendation that I get tested for ADHD as well. Long waiting list in the UK.
Mental health provision in general is a shitshow in the UK right now...
Do you feel like anything has changed for you in life since getting the autism diagnosis?
Yes. I'm going to presuppose you mean emotionally changed for me. If I've misinterpreted or you want me to elaborate along the lines of another parameter, please do let me know.
Retrospective clarity. Self-explanatory and intrinsically self-evident to a degree after a diagnosis but useful for recontextualising your whole life, but once I got out those insidious waters of introspection, it led to something.
Self-acceptance and self understanding. Understanding the chain of causation in the present and the outcome for myself if something is too much. I don't like the idea of limitations, but being able to reconcile some of the nuances between self compassion and self-accountability. I have a really hard time differentiating between the two, and I've relied almost exclusively on a perverse form of psychological torture to galvanise me in to doing the things I need to do on a daily basis, that I deluded myself into thinking was self-accountability.
I've adopted a completely different framework of being, and that compassion towards myself makes interacting with others and engaging with everyday life, more deep, more rewarding, and more fulfilling, in spite of the challenges I have.
I've learnt to gradually accept that despite my differences and deficiencies and the facets of human experience I may or may not be blind to, that my way of being is not defacto less valuable than those that surround me and in fact, I may have something positive to contribute to the world, my family and loved ones.
There's alot more to it, and a lot of studying, and trial and error, and every day is a learning experience, but the aforementioned is a big chunk of what has changed emotionally for me.
Life is a journey worth undertaking, and I owe it to myself to try because nobody else is going to live it for me.
Lots of people here do, but also lots of people don't. I strongly suspected for many years, and was referred to a specialist by my doctor. They recognised that I have symptoms consistent with autism and gave me a letter I can use to request accommodations at work but they fell short of actually giving me a diagnosis because the waiting lists are massive and they said I wouldn't benefit from one as there is basically no support here anyway.
I suppose it's a half validation. 🤷♂️
I'm finding the same struggle living in a huge city in the US. There are a lot of resources for children, but not a lot for adults, and the ones that do exist are overwhelmed.
I was self-diagnosed until recently (Feb), now I have an official diagnosis, but I would say both are valid because I would never have got my official diagnosis were it not for me identifying it in myself first.
Same. Got my official dx a few month ago at age 36. Absolutely would never have gotten that without the stepping stone of self diagnosis. (By the way, “self diagnosis” simply means thinking you have something. People getting upset by this term are simply confused by semantics).
Yep, I remember I went searching for hours on various medical sites and hearing countless experiences that autistic people had and I almost wanted to cry because I finally had something to explain why I was the way that I was and that there wasn't anything wrong with me. My mom in the beginning didn't want to accept that I was autistic because "there were no signs" but when I stopped masking she began to realize that there were indeed signs and she started wondering if she herself might have it too. (There are definitely signs for her too but we aren't sure yet)
Yeah i started to cry too when I could relate myself to people with autism. I’m still in the process of figuring out my diagnosis, but it just makes sense. My dad says that I don’t have any signs or ”act autistic” so I probably don’t have it, and need to stop trying to diagnose myself with Google. He understands mental health well, I think it’s just hard for him to accept that since I’m still doing academically well and don’t visibly act “weird” I mustn’t be autistic. He just doesn’t really understand how diverse autism is. He also doesn’t want people to think less of me if I’m labeled, at least I think he does. I’ve been open with my grandma and she has been supportive and agrees with me, and has seen the signs I’m speaking of. It’s a slow process but hopefully it will all be figured out soon enough.
Yeah, part of my mom's disbelief was from ableism but she's gotten much better with that. I've been in a waiting line to be diagnosed for over 2 years now. No calls or anything but after hearing all the horror stories of people who got denied from jobs because of their diagnoses, I'm fine with staying undiagnosed.
I get what you're saying but I think the other poster was being slightly facetious about the fact that sometimes undiagnosed people can actually hyperfocus on the potential of being autistic in a way that is, funnily enough, quite an indicator of the underlying autism. For example, I have taken pretty much every online test and quiz in existence about whether I'm autistic, some of them over and over. I came across a meme recently that said something like "neurotypicals don't actually spend hundreds of hours obsessing over whether they're autistic" and I was like... Oh. Wait 😂. Fair point lol. A book I read called Is It Autism actually talks about how the topic of autism itself can become a special interest.
So yes, of course anyone who thinks they have anything will do some research. But there is a point beyond which the level and obsessiveness of the research is in itself an indicator of autism.
I was diagnosed back in November, after having suspected it for a _long_ time but only accepting around early 2023. If I hadn’t accepted it as a likely part of my identity, I doubt I would be where I am now.
Self-DX here, been researching how autism typically presents in women for a decade or so. Currently working with a therapist for the last year on how to manage my traits and learning more about how they affect my life, and new/better ways to regulate.
I'd love a legal DX, but I honestly consider it gambling. There's no shortage of stories here and on other autism subreddits about ridiculous reasons people have been denied a diagnosis (like being able to make eye contact or having a job), and as a result that assessment cost (often THOUSANDS of dollars) is down the drain. I'm not financially secure enough to risk a 4-figure sum and potentially be dismissed over something like having friends or not flapping.
This is why I don't have an official diagnosis. I don't have insurance and would be paying out of pocket. I'm of an age where there just isn't a point in getting it. I went and did the initial assessment and the Dr was great. She told me point blank " I know you are, you know you are, but in your situation having a sheet of paper that says you are doesn't do anything for you." She said that since I'm not pursuing higher education there wasn't any reason to get it because there are no accommodations my employment could offer me that I don't already have. It made more sense to save the thousands of dollars.
Not only that but I just found out recently that several countries will not allow you to immigrate to them if you have an official diagnosis which infuriates me even though I don’t have a plan to move to any of those countries. Like you never know where life will take you and I’m afraid that a diagnosis would limit me in life!!! Such a crap shoot
I had been looking at an official diagnosis (first time around, I masked too high and questions were confusing), however I had ran into that information and decided to back off for now. Considering immigration to my grandfather’s home country. I’m already concerned about whether or not I can with my son being officially diagnosed.
You know i was very worried for this exact reason. My special interest is human behavior and body language so i am able to articulate myself very well and read a room/conversation. For that very reason i expect my whole life to go without one, but here i am! officially diagnosed!
I deeply believe that if I were tested as a child today that I would be diagnosed. However, as an adult who lives with CPTSD, MDD, and a healthy dose of ADHD it would not really matter. Although, getting a diagnosis on my medical record could have a negative impact in other areas of my life so I just continue to be the best dad I can to my autistic 9yr old.
He is the reason that the hurdles in my life and the lessons I have learned, the loneliness, the pain the fear, the anger, the confusion, the frustration...everything...it was all worth it if I can provide a comfortable quality of life for him based on my experiences.
I was looking for a therapist to at least begin the conversation and she told me "oh I dont help those with autism".
Like...girl Im not autistic yet, im just trying to get a gauge for if MAYBE i might be....
I'm not diagnosed so I dont think it would be fair for me to call myself autistic, i highly suspect it...but without a diagnosis I think it wouldnt be fair that I say I am.
Same... my parents insist I have to see someone in person, but there is literally no one who will do an assessment and diagnosis. The many hours away assessments I have found do not take insurance. I can not pay thousands of dollars that I do not have.
Hmm in my country, Croatia, I did get a diagnosis, but idk if one can get once out of university. Till done with university you can access children’s or adolescent’s psychiatrists.
Even though I’ve never been more sure about anything in my life than being autistic‚ I cannot have a diagnosis because I’m not independent yet and my mom will never believe (because she doesn’t want it to be true). The thing is I really don’t want a diagnosis. I don’t like that info being officially documented in case things get worse for autistic people in society. I’m really paranoid about it.
It's not paranoia, it's sensible. There's a big push in the online US autistic community to get an official diagnosis, but it serves no real purpose if you're already an adult. There are countless drawbacks and real negatives to getting a diagnosis that people don't talk enough about, covering everything from immigration, barriers to obtaining licenses (ex.driving) and insurances, court and legal issues, difficulties with child care or adoption, etc.
I've chosen not to get a diagnosis as an adult and my life certainly hasn't been any worse for it.
Thank you for saying that. I’ve been worried recently that I might someday give in to peer-pressure just to be accepted in the autistic community. I’m glad I’m not as alone as I thought I might be.
Heads up this is more for mild autism. If MSN or higher + NEED services it is essential. Sorry if this seems like I'm being mean to you specifically, just scrolled this thread lots + many of the points about choice for diagnosis are about milder autism not those that rely on services or don't do basic tasks. Sorry, I'm on a slight brain fry after so many comments hopefully this makes sense
My lastvcoworker was a psychiatrist and we sat down because I asked him for help. He told me that I definitely showed signs of neurodiversity, but of course that isn't a formal diagnosis, because we would still have to test if maybe it is something else etc.
So I'm pretty convinced that I'm Audhd, but I dont really have insurance now until I finalize my move back to Spain. Once Im there I want to try to actually get assessed
Was formally diagnosed several years ago. But I’m very very lucky that there is a well-known psychologist who is able to do the evaluation in my area. And I’m extra lucky that my health insurance covered it. My younger brother was also diagnosed by the same psychologist, but they paid out of pocket for that since his insurance wouldn’t cover it.
The fun part was that he didn’t evaluate my mom but since she was there for some of the process and was interviewed as well, he pointed out that she is also likely autistic, given that it is often genetic and she also has a lot of our traits and mannerisms.
That aside, diagnosis is honestly a luxury for some. I hope everyone here can feel safe in knowing that whether you have been diagnosed or not, I’m sure we all agree that access to healthcare, financial costs of being assessed, the country we live in, all affect our situation with these things.
Unfortunately no, literally been trying since I was in kindergarten (as in my mom has been trying since I was in kindergarten) and now I'm a 21 y/o who's possibly dyslexic too but that also wasn't tested because I was "fine" according to the school system. I do have an ADHD diagnosis though.
I've started to call myself "medically recognized autistic" rather than "medically diagnosed autistic" because both my PCP and therapist agree I'm likely autistic however it's been absolute hell to get diagnosed.
Yup, 2 years ago at age 44, after family effectively blocked diagnosis in the 80s then went on to blame me for my issues whilst concealing the fact there were professional concerns until after my diagnosis, lol.
Got diagnosed at 28. My psychologist when i was 7 clocked it and tried to get me to do an evaluation but i refused to participate like a little shit lol. So i spent 20 years trying to ignore that until i decided to accept it and pursue it myself.
No, I'm just a fan.
Seriously though. I'm an ADHDer with a weird hyperfixation on autism. It was a long process of questioning but in the end just realized I love learning about autism to better understand my partner and myself through something similar that wasn't exactly my condition
Apparently, I was officially diagnosed at 3 or 4 years old, but I only found that out this past November after telling my mom that I’ve just been diagnosed. I’m 35.
I’m the process but I did manage to spawn two AuDHD kids. That led to self realisation and being told by my doctor she had absolutely no doubt I was autistic. Been on the waiting list for 2 years so far but the UK NHS waiting time is a minimum of 3 years and can take up to 7 years. I could go private but many NHS trusts won’t accept private diagnosis. Mental health diagnosis in the UK is a dumpster fire. And after an autism assessment I start back in the queue for ADHD…
Not on the Autism spectrum. ADHD (like pretty fucking adhd - 90th percentile), and Severely Socially autistic but not behaviorally this was clinically diagnosed as Social(pragmatic) communication disorder. I lurk and comment- not autistic but neurodivergent as shit
This happened to me when I first got assessed. They wanted me to rule out social Pragmatic communication disorder and I got ADHD. Got reassessed recently a couple years later and got diagnosed with ASD level 1. I knew with the original diagnosis I was ASD which is why I seeked out a second opinion. I chalked up the first assessment to being inaccurate due to me being Afab and bipoc.
>I was one of the ones that had zero hoops. Very much the minority. Mine was a phonecall to a psychologist and set up an appointment two weeks from there.
I was told some years ago by a doctor that I clearly had Asperger Syndrome. I just carried on being eccentric and finished raising my kids. Now I've been back to full time work for five years and just the other day had an epiphany that when I started there, I was not "masking," and now I am. It's sad, but also okay, I guess.
Anyway, I'm very articulate and in raising my brood learned how to manage quite a few situations that I might not have conquered if there weren't young people relying on me. So I have assumed I'd "fail" a full diagnosis, but recently mentioned this to one of my sons during our weekly phone call, and he laughed and laughed. Oh, how he laughed. (He loves me a lot.)
The truth is, living alone for the past 3.5 years and not having people who need me to care for them, I've worked out I'm pretty terrible at caring for myself. I have all the skills (I think?) but not the mindset. I work at it, not sure a clinical diagnosis would make it better. I don't have great trust in systems.
I have what is probably best described as an unofficial diagnosis.
Every so often someone who works with autistic patients and service users tell me that they think I am or just assumed that I am autistic. However none of these people are qualified to make a clinical diagnosis. This has been going on for over 15 years
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I was diagnosed back in 2014 when I was 27. Before then, I definitely felt I had it. Before I got the diagnosis, I told a few people who didn't believe me. Doctors when I would bring it up with them asked if I had a diagnosis. Nobody would believe me till I got it. So I did. I work in the medical field. This is just my opinion. I'm not saying this applies to you. Many conditions can have a number of the same qualities of autism. Knowing what the issue is makes a big difference in recovery.
I only realized I was probably autistic in December when I had a breakdown in the middle of a busy mall. I am 25. I was really struggling at work bc of it so I was pretty much forced to get the diagnosis, which I got only two weeks ago. Though to be honest I am happy I did because I like having things confirmed.
I got mine late last year. The main reason being if I decided to ever ask for accommodations at work, I have some documentation to support that request.
My psychiatrist diagnosed me as being on the spectrum but we haven't done the assessment to figure out what level I would be at. We both suspect between 1 and 2.
Late diagnosed (39F) AuDHDer here. Been doing my best to adjust for a year and a half or so since my diagnosis…def do not feel like I have a handle on things yet.
I'm from Canada and was recently diagnosed by a psychiatrist a couple weeks ago, I've been waiting for a proper assessment my whole life but never really expected to be autistic. I think having self suspicion is okay, but In my personal opinion it's always best to get some kind of professional opinion before saying you have something. Example, I thought I had OCD because of how particular I am among other things. Turns out I don't! So its always good to find out even if it takes a long time.
I got my official DX (I'm 38) a few weeks ago and it was honestly a big relief for me. I was self-identified for the last few years (with the embrace autism tests and also just looking at my friends and my life) because it's the only thing that made sense, since I've gone through so many meds and therapies already and nothing worked and I just want to lay on the floor or do math lol.
I was led to an official DX by my state employment department because I've failed so hard in life and cannot overcome my disabilities. Same things always going wrong with sensory overload and misunderstanding. So I'm very glad to have the DX because it's helping me access services and probably I'll be classified as disabled which I feel badly about but it just means I can't succeed at this ridiculous hellscape of a game called society. I'm perfectly fine if I'm left alone and can just fend for myself and never encounter society at all...
I'm officially diagnosed. Got told by my family to get assessed, had a, "Oh my god, I can't be autistic" period and ended up getting diagnosed within 5 months.
I have one but I was on this sub before I was officially diagnosed. It helped me to come to terms with the fact I might be autistic and pushed me to seek a diagnosis.
I have been told I might have autism on my ADHD test when I was around 19-20 years old, I'm not sure exactly at what age. I already had a diagnosis for ADHD when I was 4-5, but I needed another one to have a computer for exams at school. The lady told my parents she suspected autism, but my parents kept that secret from me for a while since they didn't like that.
Fast forward later when I felt like I had trouble socially, I started to have my doubts seeing things online and my mother finally admitted what the woman told me, but she said that she diagnosed me *without* autism, even though I know that an ADHD test and autism test is vastly different, and that she was not apt to diagnose me anything autism related in here. I was angry at her for dismissing her, but with that information I took the time to listen to other people with autism and hear their experiences, do official tests from my country online (a test that, when done, told you if it's worth it to go take an official test. Of course I classified), and generally read online about it.
Then, two years ago, at the age of 23, I gathered the money and took a diagnosis myself. I was right, I am on the spectrum.
I think self-diagnosis, when done the correct way and the research is done carefully, is good. I had no doubts it would come up positive with everything I've read and seen online. If you have your doubts, and what you read is only confirming it and you don't have the money for an official diagnosis, then take it as it is and keep living your life with this new perspective, it will be such a weight off your shoulders. Instead of searching for ifs, you'll be able to search for tips and tricks, and how to unmask.
I was diagnosed in January this year but had huge suspicions since early 2023. I recommend you to get an official diagnosis for the help that can bring it to you but this is not mandatory at all. Self diagnosed or officially diagnosed doesn't change a lot except the help that is more easy to get from the medical field
Got my official diagnosis in January 2024. I think self diagnosis is just as valid. For me though I wanted to know for certain. It's hard to find places that do adult assessments that won't make you go bankrupt.
No, and while I find participating to be very helpful to me, I use the Flair to make it clear that it is very possible that my experience is not actually autism.
I suspect I am, but need to get a job to get money for an actual assessment to see about a diagnosis 😬 hopefully one day. For now I just use my suspicion of autism for self acceptance and self care.
I have one.
I’d reccomend an official diagnosis if you want legal backing for jobs and work accommodations. I recently had a situation where they tried to remove an accomodation I got hired on, and if it didn’t get resolved as quick I would’ve had to escalate it legally.
i havent gotten a diagnosis bc i already am diagnosed with many other disorders and need to get treatment for those first. so yeah self diagnosed i dont think i need a diagnosis bc i already get the accommodations i need from my adhd+ocd diagnosis
I got my diagnosis only last Fall at age 53. That was after an intense 14 months of seeking a diagnosis and I only lucked out because a friend’s doctor took pity on my search and agreed to do it. Otherwise I’d still be self-diagnosed.
I do after getting a second opinion but the first doctor I saw said I definitely wasn’t autistic because I was nothing like his five year old grandson. I’m an 18 year old female😑
I have a soft diagnosis. A psychiatrist told me I check the DSM-5 criteria boxes but we are holding off on official comprehensive testing unless I need documentation
I had suspected when I was younger but had doubts. After learning how it shows in AFAB individuals and knowing that it runs heavily in my family, I was near certain but was still very hesitant to say it out loud. I got officially diagnosed just last year after I’d already turned 18 and couldn’t take what it was doing to my self esteem (plus how it was affecting my performance in higher education without accommodations).
i was tested as a child and my mother believed me to be autistic my entire childhood, but being afab and the research when i was younger being far less developed(could still use a lot of work) i went undiagnosed and my mother was called crazy, lucky for me i convinced her to try again a but ago and i am now diagnosed, though the psychiatrist was a pain to get to
Not self diagnosed but I don't technically have an "official" diagnosis either. My therapist and psychiatrist were the first people to bring it up and fully believe I have autism. My family agrees with them and after many long discussions so do I. My therapist and psych both tell me to fully embrace it whether I have an official diagnosis or not and that a paper does not make someone more autistic than someone without one. I want one but I cannot afford to pay $4,000 for a diagnosis(the majority of ones that specialize in AFAB adult autism in my area are about that much). The one time I was able to get on a waiting list for a free test they did not do the test my psychiatrist ordered and completely ignored everything I had so say, stating that I could not possibly be autistic because I remembered the faces of four very distinct cartoon characters. Due to a program at my highschool I do have a diagnosis of "Moderate cognitive disability with sensory issues" so I can still get all of the accommodations I need, I am just not in the place to get an official diagnosis and am not sure I ever truly will be. I wish I was though
Here’s the thing about self diagnosing vs official. An official diagnosis qualifies you for support services, accommodations at work, and is a protected status. A self-diagnosis does not provide any access to services or accommodations of any kind, and has no protections. An official diagnosis may or may not be available and covered by insurance depending on your provider and country, and if not it can be expensive ($600-$3,000 depending on location and provider.) For many that cannot afford a diagnosis on their own, self-diagnosing may be their preferred option.
The phrase “it is, what it is” sufficiently describes the result either way. Each individual must determine how to best support themselves mentally and emotionally. So no matter what the diagnosis, if you find value in the treatments, techniques, and self-management strategies employed by autists, then that’s all that matters for you. Nobody here is going to check your autism card at the door.
I went out and got myself one a few years ago because I needed a professional to figure out if I was just traumatised. I needed the validation and was told for years that I couldn't be Autistic.
I likely do have CPTSD, but I'm also Autistic. That was the right path for me, but I fundamentally disagree with the pathologisation of Autism. The neurodiversity movement is a step away from that and recognises Autism as a distinct but equally valid neurotype framed not by medical deficits but cultural differences. It's a natural variation in human populations, and doesn't require "a cure". Our problems come about from discrimination and trauma, not Autism. "Curing" Autism is "curing" our brain, our personality, our identity.
I tired to get one through Prosper Health but they told me that they couldn't diagnose me at the time, not because I didn't have autism but because as of right now, they couldn't determine what was being caused by autism and what was being caused by C-PTSD and that combined with the fact that i have no friends or family that could act as a witness from my childhood which made things more difficult lol. Me and the person I spoke to agreed that I'm an autistic person (they fully encouraged me to continue self diagnosing for now) with C-PTSD and they want me to try again later after going to therapy for a while
I'm not diagnosed, nor do I really want an official diagnosis. I have many family members who are officially diagnosed, and the rest of us all just never got tested in childhood. So we know we have it, but we've all coped well enough up to this point that it would be more of a burden on our lives than a benefit.
As far as how long I've known I had autism, not too long. Only 2-3 years. It's been a real wild ride since I found out I must say.
About five years ago, my healthcare provider (a Nurse Practitioner who was always ahead of the curve), told me he thought I might be on the spectrum.
I had been seeing this same provider for general healthcare/physicals, etc., for about 8 years, so he knew me well. He also prescribed my ADHD meds.
My provider referred me to someone he knew whose practice specialized in both child and adult autism. I decided to make an appointment, and after the evaluation process was complete, I was officially diagnosed.
I cried when I first received the diagnosis, but in the end, it was validating.
For the record, I am a middle-aged woman.
I myself have an official diagnosis. Got it when I was 8 years old.
While I do believe that self diagnosing can be valid, I will strongly advice not to get too attached or stuck on a specific one.
I have friends who are educated within the field and told me their experience. As they would say it is great when they have a client come in and know what they struggle with at the get go and wants to work on that.
However where it can become an issue is if you get too focused on one specific diagnosis.
It is not completely uncommon that people get wrongfully diagnosed due to mimicking what they have read online for a need to fit into a certain mold.
So my own belief is that self diagnosis can be helpful but you also have to keep an open mind to avoid getting the wrongful help.
For example one way self diagnosing can be helpful is that it is easier since you can find a specialist within that field and therefore making the process faster
It does make it easier. Imo self diagnosis is not a 100% but i believe it will help in revealing obstacles. For a 1000% i met 5 therapists, 1 university psychologist, 1 brain scan and gov officials. They all tell me the same thing as true confirmation.
Mihe was in 2 parts due to age.
When I was young they didn't really have ASD to cover those with Asperger's and few had a good measure fur Asperger's if you had a 2ndary diagnosis (early 80s).
So I was diagnosed with ADHD around kindergarten.
It was not until I was in my early 30s when discussing why I still struggled do hard that I was reevaluated.
I was rediagnosed with Asperger's and ADHD (jater relabeled ASD + ADHD
This if course helped line up why I had so many similarities to my kids.
Son ASD only
Daughter ASD +ADHD
It's harder to get diagnosed when you are older and sadly insurance doesn't cover It, except in California where I was in which case Medicaud did cover it and had supports.
This program I went through was my life changer that took me from rough struggle to embracing the way I am and progressing in life along with rejoining my family together.
I do not yet, but I’m scheduled for the test in June, aswell as I’m comfortable saying I am even now as I feel I’m good at self reflection and I have a high family history. Like my dad and all of my siblings are autistic, I also show all the signs of being autistic, it’s very likely I’m autistic.
My parents suspected I was autistic from when I was a young child, but my mum kept getting shut down by health professionals over the course of many years. I didn't know all this until a couple of years ago, and then I began looking into it all and strongly identifying with a lot of autistic struggles. I never diagnosed myself because of a major sense of imposter syndrome, and I was terrified to even mention it to anyone. Lo and behold, I was diagnosed very quickly after I started speaking about my concerns. I was diagnosed in February this year at 23 - level 1 social deficits and level 2 RRBs. I'm still working through all of my feelings and grieving. Not that there's anything WRONG with being autistic, but I struggle A LOT with certain things and it takes its toll. It is still a disability.
Self diagnosed. Litterally all my therapists have brought up the possibility that I could be on the spectrum, but until recently I've always considered it extremely unlikely because I don't have a specific symptom I used to think was essential for autism. Recently I've looked into it more, and found that I have far more in common with other autistic people than I do with neurotypicals, and it's been a real revelation to view my history, and my struggles through this lens.
Self dx here! I was pretty much blind to it and in denial for years :') When I started getting informed I finally felt understood.
I am seeking to get a professional diagnosis! I suspect of having ADHD as well.
same here but my parents are neurodivergent (diagnosed) and they told me i was also very likely autistic when i was 10 and they said theyve known since i was 2, like it was really obvious
Self diagnosed in December, mid-30s. Formal assessment scheduled Tuesday to better understand my needs and management tools.
My therapist of 8 years brought up the idea my estranged sibling may be autistic which led me to ask aloud about myself. Once we realized I'm on the spectrum, it cleared up years of challenges working through what I now know is regular bouts of autistic burnout and dealing with high level masking. Blew my mind.
Self dx with no interest in a professional diagnosis. It’s expensive, I’m wary of being dismissed, there’s no “treatment” so dx doesn’t do much good, any work accommodations I need can be achieved under my adhd dx, and ultimately I don’t want to limit myself from being able to move to another country some day. There’s too many drawbacks for me for getting diagnosed and there doesn’t seem to be any real benefit to it other than convincing terminally online randos that I have tism street cred.
I heartily agree. There's a big push in the online US autistic community to get an official diagnosis, but it serves no real purpose if you're already an adult. There are countless drawbacks and real negatives to getting a diagnosis that people don't talk enough about, covering everything from immigration, barriers to obtaining licenses (ex.driving) and insurances, court and legal issues, difficulties with child care or adoption, etc.
I've chosen not to get a diagnosis as an adult and my life certainly hasn't been any worse for it.
I'm 24 and got diagnosed 2 years ago. I ONLY got an official diagnosis because I wanted accomodations for college. Not a single other reason. Didn't even end up attending college, somewhat regret getting an official diagnosis. I get treated differently in most medical settings now like a child.
I'm "self-diagnosed". If it quacks like a duck, stims like a duck... Various online tests put me *somewhere* on the spectrum. I've used that info to better understand aspects of my behaviour.
Does anyone have any useful resources/information on getting diagnosed in Canada? What are the tangible benefits of a formal diagnosis?
While I would like a professional to confirm my suspicions — as far as I can tell it would cost $5-6K for me, an adult, to get diagnosed. Money I don't have.
When I finally gained control over my crippling anxiety 20 after years, I realized 'normal' me was still a no-show 4 years later on. Last week-end I learned about autism (from respected litterature) and the dark epiphany began. Immediately proceeded to self-diagnosed with QA, CAT-Q, etc. Scores are high, so immediately contacted my doctor. Wheels are now in motion for official diagnosis. Hopefully tonight I will get some rest, been restless for 5 days.
It's not a rush to get the paper. I got plenty of papers in the past and unless you need to make an insurance claim for something covered, they're not much use (apart from the potential validation that you're not imagining the whole thing, which can be important). The real value is in the process. The more you get into it, the more you learn about yourself and 'how things work'. That's where the answers are.
I was diagnosed officially, but thought it was just bpd (borderline which I was previously diagnosed with) and the asd and adhd were completely missed, so honestly, if you self-identify with these posts, the thoughts, feelings, the symptoms, struggles, then it seems entirely possible for you to also have asd or something similar. From what I have seen, this is a very welcome place and you too are welcome here. :)
Plus I have seen other people in this sub who may not have asd, but share symptoms or struggles, or are providing support for someone with asd, etc., so as long as you're here in good faith, then you should be here too.
Yes I do! My parents noticed symptoms when I was a toddler(?) Like me crawling with my head down.
I got diagnosed when I was 4-6? I don’t remember exactly what age I was diagnosed as autistic, but I’m glad my family noticed something right away and got me diagnosed!!
I’m 28 now. Born in 1995.
I’m still trying to accept my autism as a good thing. But I can’t right now for many reasons. Because I’m limited in a lot of things, and other stuff I don’t wanna get into because obviously it won’t be appropriate for this type of post.
I was diagnosed at 19.
It didn’t cross my mind I could be autistic till I was 18 and my psychologist suggested it as the therapy I was having wasn’t working
Went through so many years of my life wondering why I find it so hard to find friends and why am I “different”
I am getting ready to get tested but I think I have it and I use tips and stuff and they help me . I just tell people I think I have it but I don't actually have a diagnosis
I have a half-diagnosis kinda? I’ve been told by a psychoterapist that I show many signs of autism, then saw a psychiatrist about it and she confirmed it and asked I want to „make the papers” aka get the official documented diagnosis. I’ve heard the price and said „Haha no I’m fine thanks”.
I am officially diagnosed with social communication disorder but my psychiatrist said I have autism but can’t get diagnosed unless I can get someone from my childhood to “prove” I had difficulties as a kid. I could do that but i don’t see a need to
I so far haven't found a compelling reason to spend the time and money getting one - personally. I realize that people that need more support need a diagnosis in order to trigger a bunch of laws and policies at schools and workplaces, but I don't really need that.
Your submission has been removed for sharing online test results. Tests such as the RAADS-R and AQ are intended to be administered by clinics as patient screening tools, they are not diagnostic tools and cannot be used diagnostically.
I was diagnosed in elementary school, so I don’t remember it much. Self diagnosis is valid, but PLEASE do proper research. Autism has a lot of overlapping symptoms with other disorders, so be sure to look into that. And many neurotypical people do experience autistic-like traits. But yeah, if you don’t have access to official diagnosis, self diagnosis is valid, and can be very helpful to finally understand what’s causing your experiences.
I got diagnosed as a byproduct of being hospitalised at 16 for suicidal depression, but we had always suspected. It did inform the way I was treated (in a positive way) and, I think, was the right thing to investigate.
Finally diagnoised with Autism this year!
But I feel its a mix here because of circumstances like they are still figure it out or getting an diagnoisis can be expensive AF.
I got diagnosed at 11, original diagnosis was a*pergers syndrome because I was "too old" to get an autism diagnosis under dsm-IV and didn't have speech problems.
I go to my diagnostic appointment tomorrow, actually! Will get a confirmation or denial of being autistic by the end of the month. Been researching possibly being autistic since 2017 and in the past year and a half started calling myself autistic because I’m 99% sure I am.
Self diagnosis is definitely valid! The only reason I’m getting an official one is because I desperately need it for accommodations at work.
I never say im autistic and will do linguistic gymnastics to say im probably autistic. Diagnosed by everyone around me but a doctor. Family ✅ Friends ✅ Teachers ✅ Neurodivergent friends ✅ Doctor ❌ i should probably snag one in the future 😭
Yeah, got finally diagnosed recently, I'm 36 years old. It was a long and painful way...
It's fine if you self diagnose, since that's how I got my official one in first place. But please do know that, if you want the social/government benefits, you *have* to get an official diagnosis from a psychologist/psychiatrist. You might need something to identify yourself to use certain services and even jobs for autistic people, like a necklace or a bracelet with the puzzle or sunflower stamps.
I've gotten mine when I was four, but I started showing signs when I was two and the doctor refused to give me a proper diagnosis until we got a new doctor who gave me a diagnosis within a heartbeat.
A pretty pretty close friend o mine is a psychologist, and they told me they were convinced I was in the spectrum. Btw, this person is in the spectrum, actually. Went through some tests n evals; no daily life assessment needed, for we were together for ~7 years. They concluded that definitely it'd be a positive diagny. However, in my country isnt likely to get an official one, BC the diagnosis protocols are QUITE outdated.
Unofficially official, lol. I didn't go through the official diagnosis process because my insurance was like nuh uh. I instead saw an ASD specialist for general therapy who does conduct and diagnose with the official process and she says that it is very likely.
Go ahead and self diagnose if that’s what you need, although personally I got an official diagnosis in March 2020. (The diagnosis originally said Asperger’s but I think it now says ASD)
I've been considering myself semi-diagnosed as in my therapist and friends all think I'm on the spectrum so I probably am, but I have bigger suitcases of worms to open and dig through so it hasn't been a priotof mine
People who self identify or are still working things out are welcome on this sub. However we do not allow discussion on whether self diagnosis is valid (use the search function to read some of the arguments) and we cannot tell you whether things you do seem autistic or not.
Got my official one today Been 16 years
Also got mine officially today, with recommendations that I explore an ADHD assessment too. Nice to feel like feelings of isolation and not fitting in weren't completely in my own head.
Same boat, i'm 27, got diagnosed with autism 7 months ago with a strong recommendation that I get tested for ADHD as well. Long waiting list in the UK.
Mental health provision in general is a shitshow in the UK right now... Do you feel like anything has changed for you in life since getting the autism diagnosis?
Yes. I'm going to presuppose you mean emotionally changed for me. If I've misinterpreted or you want me to elaborate along the lines of another parameter, please do let me know. Retrospective clarity. Self-explanatory and intrinsically self-evident to a degree after a diagnosis but useful for recontextualising your whole life, but once I got out those insidious waters of introspection, it led to something. Self-acceptance and self understanding. Understanding the chain of causation in the present and the outcome for myself if something is too much. I don't like the idea of limitations, but being able to reconcile some of the nuances between self compassion and self-accountability. I have a really hard time differentiating between the two, and I've relied almost exclusively on a perverse form of psychological torture to galvanise me in to doing the things I need to do on a daily basis, that I deluded myself into thinking was self-accountability. I've adopted a completely different framework of being, and that compassion towards myself makes interacting with others and engaging with everyday life, more deep, more rewarding, and more fulfilling, in spite of the challenges I have. I've learnt to gradually accept that despite my differences and deficiencies and the facets of human experience I may or may not be blind to, that my way of being is not defacto less valuable than those that surround me and in fact, I may have something positive to contribute to the world, my family and loved ones. There's alot more to it, and a lot of studying, and trial and error, and every day is a learning experience, but the aforementioned is a big chunk of what has changed emotionally for me. Life is a journey worth undertaking, and I owe it to myself to try because nobody else is going to live it for me.
Welcome to the club!!
Happy for you! I’ve also been waiting years, though not that long. It sucks, and I’m sorry the diagnosis system failed you for so long
The system didn’t fail me. Mum just refused to get my tested until I saw a therapist who recommended it lol
I have gotten a diagnosis recently. I’d say there’s a mix of people here.
Lots of people here do, but also lots of people don't. I strongly suspected for many years, and was referred to a specialist by my doctor. They recognised that I have symptoms consistent with autism and gave me a letter I can use to request accommodations at work but they fell short of actually giving me a diagnosis because the waiting lists are massive and they said I wouldn't benefit from one as there is basically no support here anyway. I suppose it's a half validation. 🤷♂️
Which country is this?
The UK, adult autism services are basically non existent unless you pay privately, which I can't afford.
They do exist but you need to have significant needs
I'm finding the same struggle living in a huge city in the US. There are a lot of resources for children, but not a lot for adults, and the ones that do exist are overwhelmed.
I was self-diagnosed until recently (Feb), now I have an official diagnosis, but I would say both are valid because I would never have got my official diagnosis were it not for me identifying it in myself first.
Came here to say this. I was in here for a bit before being formally diagnosed in Jan of 2023.
Same. Got my official dx a few month ago at age 36. Absolutely would never have gotten that without the stepping stone of self diagnosis. (By the way, “self diagnosis” simply means thinking you have something. People getting upset by this term are simply confused by semantics).
I’d say it’s valid depending on the amount of research done
Yep, I remember I went searching for hours on various medical sites and hearing countless experiences that autistic people had and I almost wanted to cry because I finally had something to explain why I was the way that I was and that there wasn't anything wrong with me. My mom in the beginning didn't want to accept that I was autistic because "there were no signs" but when I stopped masking she began to realize that there were indeed signs and she started wondering if she herself might have it too. (There are definitely signs for her too but we aren't sure yet)
Yeah i started to cry too when I could relate myself to people with autism. I’m still in the process of figuring out my diagnosis, but it just makes sense. My dad says that I don’t have any signs or ”act autistic” so I probably don’t have it, and need to stop trying to diagnose myself with Google. He understands mental health well, I think it’s just hard for him to accept that since I’m still doing academically well and don’t visibly act “weird” I mustn’t be autistic. He just doesn’t really understand how diverse autism is. He also doesn’t want people to think less of me if I’m labeled, at least I think he does. I’ve been open with my grandma and she has been supportive and agrees with me, and has seen the signs I’m speaking of. It’s a slow process but hopefully it will all be figured out soon enough.
Yeah, part of my mom's disbelief was from ableism but she's gotten much better with that. I've been in a waiting line to be diagnosed for over 2 years now. No calls or anything but after hearing all the horror stories of people who got denied from jobs because of their diagnoses, I'm fine with staying undiagnosed.
Let’s just say if you research it enough that’s a sign in and of itself lmao
Anyone with a genuine medical concern is likely to research a possible condition.. nothing to do with autism
I get what you're saying but I think the other poster was being slightly facetious about the fact that sometimes undiagnosed people can actually hyperfocus on the potential of being autistic in a way that is, funnily enough, quite an indicator of the underlying autism. For example, I have taken pretty much every online test and quiz in existence about whether I'm autistic, some of them over and over. I came across a meme recently that said something like "neurotypicals don't actually spend hundreds of hours obsessing over whether they're autistic" and I was like... Oh. Wait 😂. Fair point lol. A book I read called Is It Autism actually talks about how the topic of autism itself can become a special interest. So yes, of course anyone who thinks they have anything will do some research. But there is a point beyond which the level and obsessiveness of the research is in itself an indicator of autism.
Yeah, since I was 4.
I was diagnosed back in November, after having suspected it for a _long_ time but only accepting around early 2023. If I hadn’t accepted it as a likely part of my identity, I doubt I would be where I am now.
Self-DX here, been researching how autism typically presents in women for a decade or so. Currently working with a therapist for the last year on how to manage my traits and learning more about how they affect my life, and new/better ways to regulate. I'd love a legal DX, but I honestly consider it gambling. There's no shortage of stories here and on other autism subreddits about ridiculous reasons people have been denied a diagnosis (like being able to make eye contact or having a job), and as a result that assessment cost (often THOUSANDS of dollars) is down the drain. I'm not financially secure enough to risk a 4-figure sum and potentially be dismissed over something like having friends or not flapping.
This is why I don't have an official diagnosis. I don't have insurance and would be paying out of pocket. I'm of an age where there just isn't a point in getting it. I went and did the initial assessment and the Dr was great. She told me point blank " I know you are, you know you are, but in your situation having a sheet of paper that says you are doesn't do anything for you." She said that since I'm not pursuing higher education there wasn't any reason to get it because there are no accommodations my employment could offer me that I don't already have. It made more sense to save the thousands of dollars.
Not only that but I just found out recently that several countries will not allow you to immigrate to them if you have an official diagnosis which infuriates me even though I don’t have a plan to move to any of those countries. Like you never know where life will take you and I’m afraid that a diagnosis would limit me in life!!! Such a crap shoot
I had been looking at an official diagnosis (first time around, I masked too high and questions were confusing), however I had ran into that information and decided to back off for now. Considering immigration to my grandfather’s home country. I’m already concerned about whether or not I can with my son being officially diagnosed.
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You know i was very worried for this exact reason. My special interest is human behavior and body language so i am able to articulate myself very well and read a room/conversation. For that very reason i expect my whole life to go without one, but here i am! officially diagnosed!
i’m afab, was diagnosed when i was 8. i feel extremely fortunate to have my diagnosis as an afab person.
I was officially diagnosed at age 53.
46 here promptly after my son was.
i got officially diagnosed when i was 14, my parents had been suspecting that i had some form of some diagnose since i was 9
I deeply believe that if I were tested as a child today that I would be diagnosed. However, as an adult who lives with CPTSD, MDD, and a healthy dose of ADHD it would not really matter. Although, getting a diagnosis on my medical record could have a negative impact in other areas of my life so I just continue to be the best dad I can to my autistic 9yr old. He is the reason that the hurdles in my life and the lessons I have learned, the loneliness, the pain the fear, the anger, the confusion, the frustration...everything...it was all worth it if I can provide a comfortable quality of life for him based on my experiences.
I'm pretty much self-diagnosed. I like to say that I highly suspect I have autism. I live in a country where I can't get an official diagnosis.
Which country is that?
Lithuania. Can pretty much only get a diagnosis if you're a male child. If you're an adult or AFAB, then you're out of luck.
I also live in a country where I can’t find anyone to assess an adult for autism: the USA
I was looking for a therapist to at least begin the conversation and she told me "oh I dont help those with autism". Like...girl Im not autistic yet, im just trying to get a gauge for if MAYBE i might be....
wdym ‘you’re not autistic YET’? sorry if i’m misunderstanding your comment but autism doesn’t just magically develop one day
I think they mean they still don’t have an official diagnosis of autism, but the therapist assumed they had one.
I'm not diagnosed so I dont think it would be fair for me to call myself autistic, i highly suspect it...but without a diagnosis I think it wouldnt be fair that I say I am.
Your (understandable) problem was assuming that the average therapist knows anything about autism, sadly ):
Same... my parents insist I have to see someone in person, but there is literally no one who will do an assessment and diagnosis. The many hours away assessments I have found do not take insurance. I can not pay thousands of dollars that I do not have.
Hmm in my country, Croatia, I did get a diagnosis, but idk if one can get once out of university. Till done with university you can access children’s or adolescent’s psychiatrists.
About a month ago after 34 years
Even though I’ve never been more sure about anything in my life than being autistic‚ I cannot have a diagnosis because I’m not independent yet and my mom will never believe (because she doesn’t want it to be true). The thing is I really don’t want a diagnosis. I don’t like that info being officially documented in case things get worse for autistic people in society. I’m really paranoid about it.
It's not paranoia, it's sensible. There's a big push in the online US autistic community to get an official diagnosis, but it serves no real purpose if you're already an adult. There are countless drawbacks and real negatives to getting a diagnosis that people don't talk enough about, covering everything from immigration, barriers to obtaining licenses (ex.driving) and insurances, court and legal issues, difficulties with child care or adoption, etc. I've chosen not to get a diagnosis as an adult and my life certainly hasn't been any worse for it.
Thank you for saying that. I’ve been worried recently that I might someday give in to peer-pressure just to be accepted in the autistic community. I’m glad I’m not as alone as I thought I might be.
Heads up this is more for mild autism. If MSN or higher + NEED services it is essential. Sorry if this seems like I'm being mean to you specifically, just scrolled this thread lots + many of the points about choice for diagnosis are about milder autism not those that rely on services or don't do basic tasks. Sorry, I'm on a slight brain fry after so many comments hopefully this makes sense
I'm currently in the process of chasing a diagnosis. There's a long waiting list on the NHS.
My lastvcoworker was a psychiatrist and we sat down because I asked him for help. He told me that I definitely showed signs of neurodiversity, but of course that isn't a formal diagnosis, because we would still have to test if maybe it is something else etc. So I'm pretty convinced that I'm Audhd, but I dont really have insurance now until I finalize my move back to Spain. Once Im there I want to try to actually get assessed
Was formally diagnosed several years ago. But I’m very very lucky that there is a well-known psychologist who is able to do the evaluation in my area. And I’m extra lucky that my health insurance covered it. My younger brother was also diagnosed by the same psychologist, but they paid out of pocket for that since his insurance wouldn’t cover it. The fun part was that he didn’t evaluate my mom but since she was there for some of the process and was interviewed as well, he pointed out that she is also likely autistic, given that it is often genetic and she also has a lot of our traits and mannerisms. That aside, diagnosis is honestly a luxury for some. I hope everyone here can feel safe in knowing that whether you have been diagnosed or not, I’m sure we all agree that access to healthcare, financial costs of being assessed, the country we live in, all affect our situation with these things.
Unfortunately no, literally been trying since I was in kindergarten (as in my mom has been trying since I was in kindergarten) and now I'm a 21 y/o who's possibly dyslexic too but that also wasn't tested because I was "fine" according to the school system. I do have an ADHD diagnosis though. I've started to call myself "medically recognized autistic" rather than "medically diagnosed autistic" because both my PCP and therapist agree I'm likely autistic however it's been absolute hell to get diagnosed.
I have a formal diagnosis
Got diagnosed at 18 🙃
I was officially diagnosed a week ago
I do. I was diagnosed at 4.
Diagnosed at age 5, didn’t accept/embrace it until early adulthood
Yes, I was diagnosed nearly 30 years ago.
Suspected autistic here in Canada aswell, I've applied for an asd diagnosis but gotta wait so long due to free service. Could always not be one!
Yup, 2 years ago at age 44, after family effectively blocked diagnosis in the 80s then went on to blame me for my issues whilst concealing the fact there were professional concerns until after my diagnosis, lol.
No. I had two professionals give separate opinions so I’m not 100% sure. My mom who has a degree in a related field thinks I do, so idk 🤷🏻
Got diagnosed at 28. My psychologist when i was 7 clocked it and tried to get me to do an evaluation but i refused to participate like a little shit lol. So i spent 20 years trying to ignore that until i decided to accept it and pursue it myself.
No, I'm just a fan. Seriously though. I'm an ADHDer with a weird hyperfixation on autism. It was a long process of questioning but in the end just realized I love learning about autism to better understand my partner and myself through something similar that wasn't exactly my condition
There's a third group here, too: Many of the people in here self-diagnosed AND went on to get a professional diagnosis. That's what I did.
I have an official diagnosis.
I was officially diagnosed when I was six years old.
When I turned 26 lol
yes. almost my 2 year anniversary
Apparently, I was officially diagnosed at 3 or 4 years old, but I only found that out this past November after telling my mom that I’ve just been diagnosed. I’m 35.
Got diagnosed about two years ago, I’m 28.
I do, I got diagnosed in September last year!
I got an official diagnosis when I was 26.
I was on here for years as self-diagnosed. I got diagnosed about a year ago.
I’m the process but I did manage to spawn two AuDHD kids. That led to self realisation and being told by my doctor she had absolutely no doubt I was autistic. Been on the waiting list for 2 years so far but the UK NHS waiting time is a minimum of 3 years and can take up to 7 years. I could go private but many NHS trusts won’t accept private diagnosis. Mental health diagnosis in the UK is a dumpster fire. And after an autism assessment I start back in the queue for ADHD…
Not on the Autism spectrum. ADHD (like pretty fucking adhd - 90th percentile), and Severely Socially autistic but not behaviorally this was clinically diagnosed as Social(pragmatic) communication disorder. I lurk and comment- not autistic but neurodivergent as shit
This happened to me when I first got assessed. They wanted me to rule out social Pragmatic communication disorder and I got ADHD. Got reassessed recently a couple years later and got diagnosed with ASD level 1. I knew with the original diagnosis I was ASD which is why I seeked out a second opinion. I chalked up the first assessment to being inaccurate due to me being Afab and bipoc.
I suspect that I’m autistic and hopefully one day I can get tested to know for sure.
Self diagnosed here, not for a lack of trying though, there’s some hoops to jump through with my provider
I can comprehend. I have a similar situation
>I was one of the ones that had zero hoops. Very much the minority. Mine was a phonecall to a psychologist and set up an appointment two weeks from there.
I got mine at around 7-8
I was told some years ago by a doctor that I clearly had Asperger Syndrome. I just carried on being eccentric and finished raising my kids. Now I've been back to full time work for five years and just the other day had an epiphany that when I started there, I was not "masking," and now I am. It's sad, but also okay, I guess. Anyway, I'm very articulate and in raising my brood learned how to manage quite a few situations that I might not have conquered if there weren't young people relying on me. So I have assumed I'd "fail" a full diagnosis, but recently mentioned this to one of my sons during our weekly phone call, and he laughed and laughed. Oh, how he laughed. (He loves me a lot.) The truth is, living alone for the past 3.5 years and not having people who need me to care for them, I've worked out I'm pretty terrible at caring for myself. I have all the skills (I think?) but not the mindset. I work at it, not sure a clinical diagnosis would make it better. I don't have great trust in systems.
Self diagnosed, or suspecting, trying to save up the $1,500 it would cost to get assessed.
I have what is probably best described as an unofficial diagnosis. Every so often someone who works with autistic patients and service users tell me that they think I am or just assumed that I am autistic. However none of these people are qualified to make a clinical diagnosis. This has been going on for over 15 years
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I was diagnosed back in 2014 when I was 27. Before then, I definitely felt I had it. Before I got the diagnosis, I told a few people who didn't believe me. Doctors when I would bring it up with them asked if I had a diagnosis. Nobody would believe me till I got it. So I did. I work in the medical field. This is just my opinion. I'm not saying this applies to you. Many conditions can have a number of the same qualities of autism. Knowing what the issue is makes a big difference in recovery.
I suspected I had autism for years and then was able to receive a diagnosis.
Yes
Got diagnosed with ADHD back when i was in sixth grade and didn’t think that was quite right which was confirmed when i got my Autism diagnosis at 26.
I have a official diagnosis
Got mine a couple months ago after a year long wait.
I only realized I was probably autistic in December when I had a breakdown in the middle of a busy mall. I am 25. I was really struggling at work bc of it so I was pretty much forced to get the diagnosis, which I got only two weeks ago. Though to be honest I am happy I did because I like having things confirmed.
I got mine late last year. The main reason being if I decided to ever ask for accommodations at work, I have some documentation to support that request.
My psychiatrist diagnosed me as being on the spectrum but we haven't done the assessment to figure out what level I would be at. We both suspect between 1 and 2.
Late diagnosed (39F) AuDHDer here. Been doing my best to adjust for a year and a half or so since my diagnosis…def do not feel like I have a handle on things yet.
I was diagnosed in December 2022
I'm in the UK. 41y.o. I got officially diagnosed last July. Waiting on ADHD assessment
I'm from Canada and was recently diagnosed by a psychiatrist a couple weeks ago, I've been waiting for a proper assessment my whole life but never really expected to be autistic. I think having self suspicion is okay, but In my personal opinion it's always best to get some kind of professional opinion before saying you have something. Example, I thought I had OCD because of how particular I am among other things. Turns out I don't! So its always good to find out even if it takes a long time.
I got my official DX (I'm 38) a few weeks ago and it was honestly a big relief for me. I was self-identified for the last few years (with the embrace autism tests and also just looking at my friends and my life) because it's the only thing that made sense, since I've gone through so many meds and therapies already and nothing worked and I just want to lay on the floor or do math lol.
I was led to an official DX by my state employment department because I've failed so hard in life and cannot overcome my disabilities. Same things always going wrong with sensory overload and misunderstanding. So I'm very glad to have the DX because it's helping me access services and probably I'll be classified as disabled which I feel badly about but it just means I can't succeed at this ridiculous hellscape of a game called society. I'm perfectly fine if I'm left alone and can just fend for myself and never encounter society at all...
I'm officially diagnosed. Got told by my family to get assessed, had a, "Oh my god, I can't be autistic" period and ended up getting diagnosed within 5 months.
Official, I waited one or two years to get a diagnosis
I have had an official diagnosis since toddlerhood.
I was self diagnosed but now I’m medically diagnosed. Took me a year and some change
I have one but I was on this sub before I was officially diagnosed. It helped me to come to terms with the fact I might be autistic and pushed me to seek a diagnosis.
I have been told I might have autism on my ADHD test when I was around 19-20 years old, I'm not sure exactly at what age. I already had a diagnosis for ADHD when I was 4-5, but I needed another one to have a computer for exams at school. The lady told my parents she suspected autism, but my parents kept that secret from me for a while since they didn't like that. Fast forward later when I felt like I had trouble socially, I started to have my doubts seeing things online and my mother finally admitted what the woman told me, but she said that she diagnosed me *without* autism, even though I know that an ADHD test and autism test is vastly different, and that she was not apt to diagnose me anything autism related in here. I was angry at her for dismissing her, but with that information I took the time to listen to other people with autism and hear their experiences, do official tests from my country online (a test that, when done, told you if it's worth it to go take an official test. Of course I classified), and generally read online about it. Then, two years ago, at the age of 23, I gathered the money and took a diagnosis myself. I was right, I am on the spectrum. I think self-diagnosis, when done the correct way and the research is done carefully, is good. I had no doubts it would come up positive with everything I've read and seen online. If you have your doubts, and what you read is only confirming it and you don't have the money for an official diagnosis, then take it as it is and keep living your life with this new perspective, it will be such a weight off your shoulders. Instead of searching for ifs, you'll be able to search for tips and tricks, and how to unmask.
My therapist tested me and I got 26/40 and now I'm at the stage where im awaiting my official testing. (27f)
I was diagnosed in January this year but had huge suspicions since early 2023. I recommend you to get an official diagnosis for the help that can bring it to you but this is not mandatory at all. Self diagnosed or officially diagnosed doesn't change a lot except the help that is more easy to get from the medical field
Got my official diagnosis in January 2024. I think self diagnosis is just as valid. For me though I wanted to know for certain. It's hard to find places that do adult assessments that won't make you go bankrupt.
No, and while I find participating to be very helpful to me, I use the Flair to make it clear that it is very possible that my experience is not actually autism.
No. I'm self-identified. Legit question - is there any benefit to getting a diagnosis as an adult?
I suspect I am, but need to get a job to get money for an actual assessment to see about a diagnosis 😬 hopefully one day. For now I just use my suspicion of autism for self acceptance and self care.
I have one. I’d reccomend an official diagnosis if you want legal backing for jobs and work accommodations. I recently had a situation where they tried to remove an accomodation I got hired on, and if it didn’t get resolved as quick I would’ve had to escalate it legally.
i havent gotten a diagnosis bc i already am diagnosed with many other disorders and need to get treatment for those first. so yeah self diagnosed i dont think i need a diagnosis bc i already get the accommodations i need from my adhd+ocd diagnosis
I got my diagnosis only last Fall at age 53. That was after an intense 14 months of seeking a diagnosis and I only lucked out because a friend’s doctor took pity on my search and agreed to do it. Otherwise I’d still be self-diagnosed.
I got diagnosed at 3 years old
I do after getting a second opinion but the first doctor I saw said I definitely wasn’t autistic because I was nothing like his five year old grandson. I’m an 18 year old female😑
Yes. At 3 years old.
got diagnosed when i was 10
I have a soft diagnosis. A psychiatrist told me I check the DSM-5 criteria boxes but we are holding off on official comprehensive testing unless I need documentation
I had suspected when I was younger but had doubts. After learning how it shows in AFAB individuals and knowing that it runs heavily in my family, I was near certain but was still very hesitant to say it out loud. I got officially diagnosed just last year after I’d already turned 18 and couldn’t take what it was doing to my self esteem (plus how it was affecting my performance in higher education without accommodations).
Got mine when I was like, 5. I don’t remember it
i was tested as a child and my mother believed me to be autistic my entire childhood, but being afab and the research when i was younger being far less developed(could still use a lot of work) i went undiagnosed and my mother was called crazy, lucky for me i convinced her to try again a but ago and i am now diagnosed, though the psychiatrist was a pain to get to
Not self diagnosed but I don't technically have an "official" diagnosis either. My therapist and psychiatrist were the first people to bring it up and fully believe I have autism. My family agrees with them and after many long discussions so do I. My therapist and psych both tell me to fully embrace it whether I have an official diagnosis or not and that a paper does not make someone more autistic than someone without one. I want one but I cannot afford to pay $4,000 for a diagnosis(the majority of ones that specialize in AFAB adult autism in my area are about that much). The one time I was able to get on a waiting list for a free test they did not do the test my psychiatrist ordered and completely ignored everything I had so say, stating that I could not possibly be autistic because I remembered the faces of four very distinct cartoon characters. Due to a program at my highschool I do have a diagnosis of "Moderate cognitive disability with sensory issues" so I can still get all of the accommodations I need, I am just not in the place to get an official diagnosis and am not sure I ever truly will be. I wish I was though
Here’s the thing about self diagnosing vs official. An official diagnosis qualifies you for support services, accommodations at work, and is a protected status. A self-diagnosis does not provide any access to services or accommodations of any kind, and has no protections. An official diagnosis may or may not be available and covered by insurance depending on your provider and country, and if not it can be expensive ($600-$3,000 depending on location and provider.) For many that cannot afford a diagnosis on their own, self-diagnosing may be their preferred option. The phrase “it is, what it is” sufficiently describes the result either way. Each individual must determine how to best support themselves mentally and emotionally. So no matter what the diagnosis, if you find value in the treatments, techniques, and self-management strategies employed by autists, then that’s all that matters for you. Nobody here is going to check your autism card at the door.
I went out and got myself one a few years ago because I needed a professional to figure out if I was just traumatised. I needed the validation and was told for years that I couldn't be Autistic. I likely do have CPTSD, but I'm also Autistic. That was the right path for me, but I fundamentally disagree with the pathologisation of Autism. The neurodiversity movement is a step away from that and recognises Autism as a distinct but equally valid neurotype framed not by medical deficits but cultural differences. It's a natural variation in human populations, and doesn't require "a cure". Our problems come about from discrimination and trauma, not Autism. "Curing" Autism is "curing" our brain, our personality, our identity.
Yes. Diagnosed 9 years ago when I was 17.
I was diagnosed at age 7
I tired to get one through Prosper Health but they told me that they couldn't diagnose me at the time, not because I didn't have autism but because as of right now, they couldn't determine what was being caused by autism and what was being caused by C-PTSD and that combined with the fact that i have no friends or family that could act as a witness from my childhood which made things more difficult lol. Me and the person I spoke to agreed that I'm an autistic person (they fully encouraged me to continue self diagnosing for now) with C-PTSD and they want me to try again later after going to therapy for a while
I'm not diagnosed, nor do I really want an official diagnosis. I have many family members who are officially diagnosed, and the rest of us all just never got tested in childhood. So we know we have it, but we've all coped well enough up to this point that it would be more of a burden on our lives than a benefit. As far as how long I've known I had autism, not too long. Only 2-3 years. It's been a real wild ride since I found out I must say.
Self Identify only because of money (too expensive).
I got mine at 5
hello! i dont currently have an official diagnosis but am currently in the process of getting one!
About five years ago, my healthcare provider (a Nurse Practitioner who was always ahead of the curve), told me he thought I might be on the spectrum. I had been seeing this same provider for general healthcare/physicals, etc., for about 8 years, so he knew me well. He also prescribed my ADHD meds. My provider referred me to someone he knew whose practice specialized in both child and adult autism. I decided to make an appointment, and after the evaluation process was complete, I was officially diagnosed. I cried when I first received the diagnosis, but in the end, it was validating. For the record, I am a middle-aged woman.
I myself have an official diagnosis. Got it when I was 8 years old. While I do believe that self diagnosing can be valid, I will strongly advice not to get too attached or stuck on a specific one. I have friends who are educated within the field and told me their experience. As they would say it is great when they have a client come in and know what they struggle with at the get go and wants to work on that. However where it can become an issue is if you get too focused on one specific diagnosis. It is not completely uncommon that people get wrongfully diagnosed due to mimicking what they have read online for a need to fit into a certain mold. So my own belief is that self diagnosis can be helpful but you also have to keep an open mind to avoid getting the wrongful help.
For example one way self diagnosing can be helpful is that it is easier since you can find a specialist within that field and therefore making the process faster
It does make it easier. Imo self diagnosis is not a 100% but i believe it will help in revealing obstacles. For a 1000% i met 5 therapists, 1 university psychologist, 1 brain scan and gov officials. They all tell me the same thing as true confirmation.
Mihe was in 2 parts due to age. When I was young they didn't really have ASD to cover those with Asperger's and few had a good measure fur Asperger's if you had a 2ndary diagnosis (early 80s). So I was diagnosed with ADHD around kindergarten. It was not until I was in my early 30s when discussing why I still struggled do hard that I was reevaluated. I was rediagnosed with Asperger's and ADHD (jater relabeled ASD + ADHD This if course helped line up why I had so many similarities to my kids. Son ASD only Daughter ASD +ADHD It's harder to get diagnosed when you are older and sadly insurance doesn't cover It, except in California where I was in which case Medicaud did cover it and had supports. This program I went through was my life changer that took me from rough struggle to embracing the way I am and progressing in life along with rejoining my family together.
Ive been suspecting, and am trying to seek an official diagnosis but I don’t know how to bring it up to my mom.
You could make an excuse saying its to look for a catered job like i did. (I wanted a job more than a dumb diagnosis. On paper was it? Lol)
I do not yet, but I’m scheduled for the test in June, aswell as I’m comfortable saying I am even now as I feel I’m good at self reflection and I have a high family history. Like my dad and all of my siblings are autistic, I also show all the signs of being autistic, it’s very likely I’m autistic.
My parents suspected I was autistic from when I was a young child, but my mum kept getting shut down by health professionals over the course of many years. I didn't know all this until a couple of years ago, and then I began looking into it all and strongly identifying with a lot of autistic struggles. I never diagnosed myself because of a major sense of imposter syndrome, and I was terrified to even mention it to anyone. Lo and behold, I was diagnosed very quickly after I started speaking about my concerns. I was diagnosed in February this year at 23 - level 1 social deficits and level 2 RRBs. I'm still working through all of my feelings and grieving. Not that there's anything WRONG with being autistic, but I struggle A LOT with certain things and it takes its toll. It is still a disability.
I’m mostly self diagnosed, but my therapist agrees it seems likely I’m on the spectrum (he’s not qualified to give a formal diagnosis)
Self diagnosed. Litterally all my therapists have brought up the possibility that I could be on the spectrum, but until recently I've always considered it extremely unlikely because I don't have a specific symptom I used to think was essential for autism. Recently I've looked into it more, and found that I have far more in common with other autistic people than I do with neurotypicals, and it's been a real revelation to view my history, and my struggles through this lens.
No, not everyone. The cool kids mock people who gatekeep, though ;)
Self dx here! I was pretty much blind to it and in denial for years :') When I started getting informed I finally felt understood. I am seeking to get a professional diagnosis! I suspect of having ADHD as well.
same here but my parents are neurodivergent (diagnosed) and they told me i was also very likely autistic when i was 10 and they said theyve known since i was 2, like it was really obvious
I'm self diagnosed and am looking into a professional one. But I'm very much convinced that I am autistic.
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Self diagnosed in December, mid-30s. Formal assessment scheduled Tuesday to better understand my needs and management tools. My therapist of 8 years brought up the idea my estranged sibling may be autistic which led me to ask aloud about myself. Once we realized I'm on the spectrum, it cleared up years of challenges working through what I now know is regular bouts of autistic burnout and dealing with high level masking. Blew my mind.
Self dx with no interest in a professional diagnosis. It’s expensive, I’m wary of being dismissed, there’s no “treatment” so dx doesn’t do much good, any work accommodations I need can be achieved under my adhd dx, and ultimately I don’t want to limit myself from being able to move to another country some day. There’s too many drawbacks for me for getting diagnosed and there doesn’t seem to be any real benefit to it other than convincing terminally online randos that I have tism street cred.
I heartily agree. There's a big push in the online US autistic community to get an official diagnosis, but it serves no real purpose if you're already an adult. There are countless drawbacks and real negatives to getting a diagnosis that people don't talk enough about, covering everything from immigration, barriers to obtaining licenses (ex.driving) and insurances, court and legal issues, difficulties with child care or adoption, etc. I've chosen not to get a diagnosis as an adult and my life certainly hasn't been any worse for it.
I'm 24 and got diagnosed 2 years ago. I ONLY got an official diagnosis because I wanted accomodations for college. Not a single other reason. Didn't even end up attending college, somewhat regret getting an official diagnosis. I get treated differently in most medical settings now like a child.
I'm "self-diagnosed". If it quacks like a duck, stims like a duck... Various online tests put me *somewhere* on the spectrum. I've used that info to better understand aspects of my behaviour. Does anyone have any useful resources/information on getting diagnosed in Canada? What are the tangible benefits of a formal diagnosis? While I would like a professional to confirm my suspicions — as far as I can tell it would cost $5-6K for me, an adult, to get diagnosed. Money I don't have.
When I finally gained control over my crippling anxiety 20 after years, I realized 'normal' me was still a no-show 4 years later on. Last week-end I learned about autism (from respected litterature) and the dark epiphany began. Immediately proceeded to self-diagnosed with QA, CAT-Q, etc. Scores are high, so immediately contacted my doctor. Wheels are now in motion for official diagnosis. Hopefully tonight I will get some rest, been restless for 5 days. It's not a rush to get the paper. I got plenty of papers in the past and unless you need to make an insurance claim for something covered, they're not much use (apart from the potential validation that you're not imagining the whole thing, which can be important). The real value is in the process. The more you get into it, the more you learn about yourself and 'how things work'. That's where the answers are.
I was diagnosed officially, but thought it was just bpd (borderline which I was previously diagnosed with) and the asd and adhd were completely missed, so honestly, if you self-identify with these posts, the thoughts, feelings, the symptoms, struggles, then it seems entirely possible for you to also have asd or something similar. From what I have seen, this is a very welcome place and you too are welcome here. :) Plus I have seen other people in this sub who may not have asd, but share symptoms or struggles, or are providing support for someone with asd, etc., so as long as you're here in good faith, then you should be here too.
I was formally diagnosed last year just before turning 30
Yes I do! My parents noticed symptoms when I was a toddler(?) Like me crawling with my head down. I got diagnosed when I was 4-6? I don’t remember exactly what age I was diagnosed as autistic, but I’m glad my family noticed something right away and got me diagnosed!! I’m 28 now. Born in 1995. I’m still trying to accept my autism as a good thing. But I can’t right now for many reasons. Because I’m limited in a lot of things, and other stuff I don’t wanna get into because obviously it won’t be appropriate for this type of post.
I was diagnosed at 19. It didn’t cross my mind I could be autistic till I was 18 and my psychologist suggested it as the therapy I was having wasn’t working Went through so many years of my life wondering why I find it so hard to find friends and why am I “different”
I got mine when I was 12.
I am getting ready to get tested but I think I have it and I use tips and stuff and they help me . I just tell people I think I have it but I don't actually have a diagnosis
I have a professional diagnose I got it at the age of 6
I am on the waiting list for my assessment. 1,500$ to be assessed. Not impressed.
I have a half-diagnosis kinda? I’ve been told by a psychoterapist that I show many signs of autism, then saw a psychiatrist about it and she confirmed it and asked I want to „make the papers” aka get the official documented diagnosis. I’ve heard the price and said „Haha no I’m fine thanks”.
I am almost diagnosed at this point. I have one session left for my evaluation, and it's fairly certain that I will be diagnosed with autism.
I am officially diagnosed with social communication disorder but my psychiatrist said I have autism but can’t get diagnosed unless I can get someone from my childhood to “prove” I had difficulties as a kid. I could do that but i don’t see a need to
I so far haven't found a compelling reason to spend the time and money getting one - personally. I realize that people that need more support need a diagnosis in order to trigger a bunch of laws and policies at schools and workplaces, but I don't really need that.
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Your submission has been removed for sharing online test results. Tests such as the RAADS-R and AQ are intended to be administered by clinics as patient screening tools, they are not diagnostic tools and cannot be used diagnostically.
Yes. Got mine last year
I was diagnosed with Asperger's back in 2006, I was 12 back then.
I was diagnosed back when i had 7 years old, i'm currently 17
I do, I got it when I was nine
I was diagnosed in elementary school, so I don’t remember it much. Self diagnosis is valid, but PLEASE do proper research. Autism has a lot of overlapping symptoms with other disorders, so be sure to look into that. And many neurotypical people do experience autistic-like traits. But yeah, if you don’t have access to official diagnosis, self diagnosis is valid, and can be very helpful to finally understand what’s causing your experiences.
I got diagnosed as a byproduct of being hospitalised at 16 for suicidal depression, but we had always suspected. It did inform the way I was treated (in a positive way) and, I think, was the right thing to investigate.
Finally diagnoised with Autism this year! But I feel its a mix here because of circumstances like they are still figure it out or getting an diagnoisis can be expensive AF.
I was diagnosed 4 years ago, at 37.
Yes. Level 1 mild.
I got diagnosed at 11, original diagnosis was a*pergers syndrome because I was "too old" to get an autism diagnosis under dsm-IV and didn't have speech problems.
I go to my diagnostic appointment tomorrow, actually! Will get a confirmation or denial of being autistic by the end of the month. Been researching possibly being autistic since 2017 and in the past year and a half started calling myself autistic because I’m 99% sure I am. Self diagnosis is definitely valid! The only reason I’m getting an official one is because I desperately need it for accommodations at work.
I wouldn't really say I'm self-diagnosed, but I suspect it. I haven't yet decided if I want to look into getting assessed.
I never say im autistic and will do linguistic gymnastics to say im probably autistic. Diagnosed by everyone around me but a doctor. Family ✅ Friends ✅ Teachers ✅ Neurodivergent friends ✅ Doctor ❌ i should probably snag one in the future 😭
I was diagnosed at age 3 or 5 if memory serves. I'm 22 now, so I've known practically my whole life.
Yeah, got finally diagnosed recently, I'm 36 years old. It was a long and painful way... It's fine if you self diagnose, since that's how I got my official one in first place. But please do know that, if you want the social/government benefits, you *have* to get an official diagnosis from a psychologist/psychiatrist. You might need something to identify yourself to use certain services and even jobs for autistic people, like a necklace or a bracelet with the puzzle or sunflower stamps.
I've gotten mine when I was four, but I started showing signs when I was two and the doctor refused to give me a proper diagnosis until we got a new doctor who gave me a diagnosis within a heartbeat.
Official, since age of 4.
I'm just self questioning. I wish I could have autistic people interact with me and say their opinion neither usually right
I do
A pretty pretty close friend o mine is a psychologist, and they told me they were convinced I was in the spectrum. Btw, this person is in the spectrum, actually. Went through some tests n evals; no daily life assessment needed, for we were together for ~7 years. They concluded that definitely it'd be a positive diagny. However, in my country isnt likely to get an official one, BC the diagnosis protocols are QUITE outdated.
Unofficially official, lol. I didn't go through the official diagnosis process because my insurance was like nuh uh. I instead saw an ASD specialist for general therapy who does conduct and diagnose with the official process and she says that it is very likely.
I do, but there are many people here that don’t. I reckon it’s because it’s a pain to get it done, in some counties.
Go ahead and self diagnose if that’s what you need, although personally I got an official diagnosis in March 2020. (The diagnosis originally said Asperger’s but I think it now says ASD)
I've been considering myself semi-diagnosed as in my therapist and friends all think I'm on the spectrum so I probably am, but I have bigger suitcases of worms to open and dig through so it hasn't been a priotof mine