Autism Diagnosis
Hi everyone!
So for the last couple months I've grown increasingly certain that I might be on the spectrum.
At first I thought it was ADD but professional testing gave no real indication of that and my therapist told me it's not very likely. But through my research into ADHD syptoms especially in women, I became more aware of the similarities between AD(H)D and autism and it seems very likely to me that I'm on the spectrum, it would explain so much!
However I'm not sure if I should get officially diagnosed. I'm worried about the stigma it comes with and how autism is still ignorantly viewed by most. I don't want to be looked down on or treated like a child.
So my question to you is, what are the benefits of being diagnosed? Is it worth the trouble, are there specific doors it opens to you? (I'd especially appreciate the input from people living in Europe, since everywhere's a bit different.)
I was diagnosed really young so unfortunately I can't be of much help. But I do still wanna say something-
I'm autistic and have adhd. Too me, autism isn't a disorder, it's a different type of brain/way of processing (like im a old school computer compared too a high tech computer). Only bad experiences I've personally had were in special need schools. I struggle a lot with executive functioning, overstimulation, loud sounds, and trying too not mask and remember too stim (regulate emotions)
I recommend watching YouTube videos by people who are autistic and talk about their experiences, here's one channel-
https://www.youtube.com/@imautisticnowwhat/videos
@0B Thanks for your reply & your youtube channel recommendation! I checked it out & it's great! So many helpful resources to check out! :D
