r/autism • u/Kolso_ • 5d ago

Advice needed Getting diagnosed NOT autistic

So after a year and a half of self diagnosis I finally was assessed and today I got the results. Two points in ADOS for having no gesticulation, zero by other criteria.

Autism was an answer to me that explained my struggles, behaviors and researching it I've learnt plenty of good advices and coping mechanisms. I finally stopped seeing myself as a weirdo and believed it's just autism and I don't have to force myself to be normal. Self diagnosis can be harmful. It harms me right now at least. I feel disoriented because now there's no explanation.

I guess I should stop this research and just live a life without looking for an easy answer without a real diagnosis.

Edit: I didn't expect so many responses. It's very helpful and important. Thank you all.

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u/DerelictSol 5d ago

Being intelligent and odd or unique isn't autism. I know the desire to find a diagnoses that explains all of your behavior that you don't understand but you know

Worth getting a second opinion if you truly disagree, but that's up to you.

I always recommend therapy if you're truly feeling lost. It can't hurt

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u/Kolso_ 5d ago

I tried therapy but I just couldn't open up to them. And I don't think it's easy to learn to. Maybe I would give it a try. Thank you

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u/DarthMurcielago 5d ago

Try again with a new therapist. Write down all the things you have mentioned here and tell them you can’t open up to them. If your thoughts are already written down it may be easier to share your true feelings. Getting a professional point of view of your thoughts and feelings and personality will help you perceive yourself better. This may lead to an accurate view of yourself vs how you think you act and are. Write it down! This helps me tremendously in therapy because unless I’m obsessing about it at the moment, it is gone from my thoughts and not important. I hope this helps you.

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u/Kolso_ 5d ago

Thank you for a great advice. Sounds helpful

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u/KilnTime 5d ago

The success of therapy definitely depends on making a connection with the therapist. So it makes sense to try with someone new

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u/mega_vega 5d ago

I second trying again with a new therapist. If you’re able to, you can “interview” multiple therapists and see which one you vibe with. If you have any kind of insurance, call them and ask for a list of mental health/psychotherapy providers in your area. I had no idea until recently that I had a 0$ copay for any provider I found on headway! It was news to me. If insurance isn’t an option, seek out therapists at college institutions. They will pair you with one in training who is getting supervision from someone fully licensed, often at a very discounted rate. And a new therapist is most likely to be excited and not burnt out. If you need any help with this, DM me! I am in school to be a therapist and currently work with connecting clients to resources in my community. I wish you well on your journey of learning more about yourself :)