I Think I Might Be Autistic

1. Recognize the signs of autism in adults

"Adults who suspect they may be on the autism spectrum often need to become self-advocates, arming themselves with the information necessary to "make their case" to a series of medical professionals."

Autism in adults manifests differently than in children. Common signs include difficulties with social communication, restricted interests, sensory sensitivities, and executive function challenges. Adults may struggle with maintaining relationships, adapting to change, and understanding unwritten social rules. They might excel in certain areas while struggling in others, creating an uneven skill profile.

• Social communication challenges:
  • Difficulty with small talk and reciprocal conversation
  • Trouble reading nonverbal cues and body language
  • Literal interpretation of language
• Restricted interests and behaviors:
  • Intense focus on specific topics
  • Adherence to routines and resistance to change
  • Repetitive movements or speech patterns (stimming)
• Sensory sensitivities:
  • Heightened or reduced sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, or smells
  • Difficulty processing multiple sensory inputs simultaneously
• Executive function difficulties:
  • Challenges with planning, organization, and time management
  • Difficulty switching between tasks or adapting to new situations

2. Understand the autism spectrum and its diverse manifestations

"The key word in "autism spectrum disorder" is spectrum: we are a diverse group of individuals, with varied life experiences as well as differing symptom clusters."

Autism is not a one-size-fits-all condition. It presents differently in each individual, with varying strengths and challenges. This diversity is why it's called a spectrum disorder. Some autistic adults may have obvious traits, while others may have learned to mask their differences, making diagnosis more challenging.

The autism spectrum includes:

• Different levels of support needs
• Varying cognitive abilities
• Diverse communication styles
• Unique sensory profiles
• Distinct special interests and skills

Understanding this diversity is crucial for self-acceptance and for educating others about autism. It's important to remember that no two autistic individuals are exactly alike, and comparing oneself to others on the spectrum can be misleading and potentially harmful to self-esteem.

3. Navigate the self-discovery process with patience and self-compassion

"Nothing has changed; everything has changed."

Self-discovery is a journey, not a destination. Realizing you might be on the autism spectrum can be both liberating and overwhelming. It's common to experience a mix of emotions, including relief, confusion, and anxiety. Give yourself time to process this information and be kind to yourself as you explore what it means for your identity and life experiences.

Steps in the self-discovery process:

1. Research autism traits and how they manifest in adults
2. Reflect on your life experiences through an autistic lens
3. Connect with other autistic adults or online communities
4. Consider taking online screening tests, but remember they're not diagnostic
5. Keep a journal of your thoughts, feelings, and observations

Remember that self-discovery is an ongoing process. Your understanding of yourself and your autism may evolve over time. Embrace this journey as an opportunity for greater self-awareness and self-acceptance.

4. Explore the benefits and challenges of seeking a professional diagnosis

"Getting diagnosed can be an uphill climb. Pace yourself."

Professional diagnosis: pros and cons. Deciding whether to pursue a professional diagnosis is a personal choice with various factors to consider. A diagnosis can provide validation, access to support services, and legal protections. However, it can also be expensive, time-consuming, and potentially lead to discrimination in some situations.

Benefits of professional diagnosis:

• Validation of experiences and challenges
• Access to support services and accommodations
• Better understanding of strengths and weaknesses
• Potential for improved self-advocacy

Challenges of professional diagnosis:

• Cost (often not covered by insurance)
• Limited availability of professionals experienced in adult autism
• Potential for misdiagnosis or multiple diagnoses before accurate assessment
• Risk of discrimination in employment or other areas of life

Consider your personal circumstances, goals, and the potential impact of a diagnosis on your life before making a decision. Remember that self-diagnosis is also a valid option for many adults in the autism community.

5. Prepare for and understand the adult autism assessment process

"All you have to do at the appointment is be yourself. This is one time when being your own hot mess of an autistic self is encouraged."

Assessment process demystified. Adult autism assessments typically involve a combination of interviews, cognitive tests, and self-report questionnaires. The process can vary depending on the professional and their approach, but generally includes a comprehensive evaluation of your developmental history, current functioning, and autistic traits.

Common components of an adult autism assessment:

1. Diagnostic interview covering developmental history and current symptoms
2. Cognitive testing to assess strengths and challenges
3. Self-report questionnaires on autism traits and related conditions
4. Observation of behavior and communication style
5. Review of any available childhood records or reports

Prepare for your assessment by:

• Gathering relevant childhood information and records
• Making notes about your symptoms and experiences
• Bringing a trusted person for support if allowed
• Being honest and open during the evaluation

Remember that the goal of the assessment is not just to receive a diagnosis, but to gain a better understanding of your strengths and challenges, which can inform future support and personal growth strategies.

6. Process your diagnosis and create a sensemaking narrative

"Sensemaking has a few key steps, most of which I found happening naturally as I processed my newfound identity."

Integrating your diagnosis into your identity is a personal journey that takes time. Creating a sensemaking narrative helps you reframe your life experiences through the lens of your new understanding. This process can be healing and empowering, allowing you to make sense of past challenges and recognize your strengths.

Steps in creating a sensemaking narrative:

1. Reflect on past experiences and how they align with autism traits
2. Identify patterns in your behavior and thinking that now make sense
3. Reframe challenging experiences with compassion and understanding
4. Recognize and celebrate your unique strengths and abilities
5. Share your narrative with trusted others to reinforce and refine it

As you process your diagnosis, be patient with yourself. It's normal to experience a range of emotions, including relief, grief, and anxiety. Allow yourself time to adjust to this new understanding of yourself and seek support from others in the autism community or from mental health professionals if needed.

7. Make informed decisions about disclosure and personal growth

"Disclosure makes people uncomfortable. Most people don't know what to say. Many will reassure you that it makes no difference and then proceed to treat you differently."

Disclosure and growth: personal choices. Deciding who to tell about your autism diagnosis and how to approach personal growth are highly individual decisions. Consider the potential benefits and risks of disclosure in different contexts, and focus on making changes that improve your quality of life rather than trying to conform to societal expectations.

Factors to consider when deciding on disclosure:

• Potential benefits (e.g., access to accommodations, increased understanding)
• Possible risks (e.g., discrimination, changed perceptions)
• Your comfort level and readiness to educate others
• The specific context and relationship with the person you're telling

Approaches to personal growth:

• Focus on self-acceptance and self-compassion
• Identify areas where you want to improve or develop coping strategies
• Seek support from therapists experienced in working with autistic adults
• Connect with the autism community for shared experiences and advice

Remember that being autistic is a fundamental part of who you are. While it's okay to work on challenges, it's equally important to embrace your unique strengths and perspective. Strive for a balance between adaptation and authenticity that allows you to thrive as your true self.

Last updated: October 2, 2024