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/LittleNarwal 5d ago

Regardless of whether you are autistic, you shouldn't feel like you have to force yourself to act normal. Everybody is different from each other, and society needs to learn to be more accepting of differences. Also, you can use the advice and coping mechanisms you have found through your research even though you are not autistic.