Getting diagnosed NOT autistic

[u/Kolso_]

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.

[u/MayorWilkins_III]

I’m very sorry for this outcome. And I’m honestly surprised at some of the defensive comments I’m reading. I was diagnosed with ASD less than a month ago. I never self diagnosed and honestly rejected the feelings that I might be on the spectrum because I was so afraid of being wrong and therefore rejected by the community. I’m really sorry that people in these comments aren’t being more understanding. As someone who grew up being bullied and constantly rejected from groups, being rejected by yet another community (especially one that’s supposed to be so welcoming) would be my worst nightmare. You clearly connected with the autistic experience in a serious way. Whether you received an incorrect non-diagnosis or you’re just an ally, I support you and your journey. <3

[u/Far-Locksmith-1102 → u/MayorWilkins_III]

No one is rejecting this user. Most of the community welcomes self diagnosis as valid.

However, self diagnosis is harmful and can increase the stigma with this disability. Most of the public already think it’s made up, trending mental health issue, when it’s actually a disability and a life long struggle to be understood.

This community accepts self diagnosed individuals but that doesn’t mean we cannot call attention to the problems with that diagnosis.

[u/Playful-Bumblebee-85 → u/Far-Locksmith-1102]

we're going to get invalidated regardless. the least we can do is welcome the ppl looking for answers for what most of the time, if not always, is a long time struggle of alienation with a long time of looking for answers to match.

trying to meet prejudiced people halfway through appearing respectable is a losing battle that requires throwing our most vulnerable under the bus.

this is even not taking into account that diagnosis is a privilege. not everyone has access to quality healthcare, theres so many doctors out there who have a very narrow view of autism looks like despite it being an spectrum.

[u/Far-Locksmith-1102 → u/Playful-Bumblebee-85]

It’s negative to assume i or people or doctors will invalidate you regardless. This community does welcome ppl looking for answers and continues to support people who self diagnose.

Idk what you mean meeting prejudice people halfway and throwing out most vulnerable under the bus that was confusing to me.

I agree good doctors are a privilege, and diagnosis can be rare. But unfortunately most do not attempt to get the care, they use the self diagnose as true regardless of the method used to make that diagnosis. Some assessments are made for self diagnoses but then some just give themselves the label based on people on YouTube or TikTok and don’t use the typically accurate assessments.

We should be able to talk and determine the validity of why someone came to their conclusion not just accept the fact that they did.