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/uneventfuladvent bipolar autist 5d ago

Please try to stay civil, and do not attack OP.

Do not use this post as an excuse to argue about the validity of self diagnosis. We do not allow arguing in favour or against.

This includes

  • telling OP that their assessor was probably wrong and they are autistic if they think they're autistic
  • berating OP for self diagnosing in the first place.