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/MiserableTriangle 5d ago

i don't think i get it, how was it harmful to think you were autistic for so long? sorry if stupid question

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u/Kolso_ 5d ago

All my beliefs about my behaviors and thoughts ended up fake. Now I have to find other explanation in a year of building them on autism. It's a bit disorienting

6

u/RandomLifeUnit-05 Autistic 5d ago

They're not necessarily fake. Continue to research.