Self-Diagnosis Of Autism: Is it valid?

[@racheln8563]

I value honesty, and don’t feel I have the right to flatly say “I’m autistic” without confirming it’s true. Until then, I rely on qualifiers like “I suspect...” or “I have reason to believe...”

[@grdt56546trgrdytr]

The problem is I've read so many stories of bad psychiatrists who choose to dismiss people over small things like "you make too much eye contact so you can't possibly be autistic despite you ticking every other box" They seem to especially have difficulty with older people who were missed and have spent decades of compensating an hard masking, to the point they'd just flat out pass tests as NT. Women seem to have more problems with this as well and get misdiagnosed with BPD instead. Privately it's also disgustingly expensive and since a lot of autistic people are generally lower paid because of their disability this is extremely hard to cough up the funds needed.. only for someone to dismiss you over something small. I even read a story where a woman was dismissed because "women can't have autism" like.. that's pretty depressing. I think community validation was enough for me. Researching it explains my whole life. I'm confident I'm an aspie without the need of the potential stress and anxiety and financial cost of an official diagnosis. It won't change anything for me if I got one. There's no support or medications to help me locally so there's no point.

[@virglibrsaglove]

I've started to say, "I'm self-diagnosed autistic." That's still 100% accurate but allows me to say that I am.

[@tonyfeld5403]

Hi Rachel, I'm self-diagnosed autistic and totally share your way of thinking. However, as another commenter was suggesting, when every way you turn only confirms again and again that you're autistic, there comes a time when you could also claim "I believe with a very high probability that I am autistic and I also believe with a very high level of confidence that my evaluation is at least as likely to be accurate as the average doctor's is." I have started abbreviating that as "I am autistic." On the other hand, the way you put it, at least for my autistic way of thinking only serves to confirm your opinion of yourself. Even a doctor's opinion should surely carry your caveat. They could even give a diagnosis falsely saying someone was autistic. So for me you only gain in terms of consistency and credibility by using the "high probability" caveat.

[@ChristoferKelly]

@@tonyfeld5403 I'd be less inclined to be as cavalier when it comes to asserting as fact what could end up being a misrepresentation, especially around people who are autistic. If a doctor's opinion requires caveats of the kind we're talking about, you need a second opinion from a doctor who is trained and subspecialised in the field of ASD. Asserting _"high probability"_ isn't a caveat, it's a falsehood: _probability_ is an objective, quantifiable measurement, which is not possible for you to obtain from subjective introspection. That's not in any way to say that you're not autistic. But bear in mind that ASD is a highly specialised area of psychiatry that takes a decade to learn about, and that there's a reason that doctors don't (can't) diagnose themselves. Thus claiming that a bit of reading and personal reflection brings your self-assessment up to the level of an ASD specialist is an egregious claim, which, if anything, gives the impression your ability to self-assess is possibly very poor. Rachel's phrasing is humble, honest and genuine. Importantly, it doesn't run the risk of misrepresenting a group of disabled people who already struggle with public perceptions of what people think autism is or is not; and doesn't risk alienating those if later in the discussion, it's revealed your notion of "abbreviation" is someone else's notion of misappropriation.

[@tonyfeld5403]

I'll just get my probability meter out, wait - it says there's a 95% probability you are entirely correct! But having said that, I have virtually zero opportunity to see one of those doctors of whom you speak and at 57 it's going to be tough to get a diagnosis in a country where autism is considered an incurable disease. Oh well, I guess I'll just have to disappear then.....

[@bedlingtoncandycrush1008]

My psychiatrist basically said the same thing. I brought it up on a regular check up after I've been furiously combing through the internet for a week straight and doing all of the tests I could find. I found that I can relate to both official medical descriptions of autism as well as lived experiences of autistic people and, apparently like many others, I seeked official stamp of approval that I'm not crazy. She discouraged me from seeking an official diagnosis because I didn't plan on using it to get help from institutions where I'd need an official diagnosis and because people are still very prejudiced against autistic people, or, more broadly, against people who are in any way related to psychiatry (especially in my country). She's currently treating me for depression, and I'm seeing a psychologist to, essentially, improve my executive functions. In relation to the prejudice against psychiatry, she told me that diagnosis of depression can be voided (should I get better OR should it be an issue when applying for a job) while ASD, being neurodevelopmental disorder can not. So, in essence, the only benefit I'd get would be an official validation of my experiences, to which she told me:"You experience the world the way you do and that's something personal. You don't really need an official diagnosis to validate that. People who respect you will acknowledge your experiences without a diagnosis and those who don't respect you will dismiss you even if you had an official diagnosis". And I think that's a quite nice perspective.

[@mogvgb]

"You experience the world the way you do and that's something personal. You don't really need an official diagnosis to validate that. People who respect you will acknowledge your experiences without a diagnosis and those who don't respect you will dismiss you even if you had an official diagnosis". This is so true.

[@Daniel_WR_Hart]

Your psychiatrist brings up a few good points. Maybe I'm paranoid but I'd be a little worried about ending up on a forced-sterilization list a few decades down the line, or even some kind of low-key employment black-list if I was working outside of tech.

[@danielperales3958]

That's the best phrase i've ever read

[@edwigcarol4888]

As I asked my CBT-therapeut, a good one, who has followed me over 10 yrs for cPTSD "do I have Asperger's? He answered "labels are not of great help. What is important for you is what you can do, what works for you, and what doesn't" But he did help me as an Aspie! A lot of clues about that. PTSD brings money, ASD at my age not. I believe he wanted to avoid any labelling because my mother had yelled at me so often in my teenage with such an hatred that "i was crazy". I see still her horrible face, her cruel voice. Fully traumatizing A label here could have been alike a fire brought in contact with fuel. But the self-diagnosis ( i got the name, naming experiences are good for dealing with them, reducing fears) brought me a huge relief! My mother can't shout any longer in my soul. She is dead anyway. And it explains so brilliantly how NTs have felt offended, outraged, yelling at me, sacking me, rejecting me in the most cruel manner, so often - despite my high IQ, that i could have thrown away in a dustbin. Now I am living in peace with me, with you all, in retirement.

[@ziyu3886]

Damn, your psychiatrist sounds really intelligent and nice.

[@vlst8715]

Hi, fellow aspie from russia here, with a scary story. Our psychiatry is in a horrible state. I was warned things can go horribly wrong if I try to get help. Heard about really bad experiences. Despite that, I decided to try, at least to solve social anxiety. I regretted my decision instantly. The evaluation process was short and pretty far from professional. I was diagnosed with schizophrenia and, I kid you not, a half of existing personality disorders, for ridiculous farfetched reasons, yet they somehow failed to address my actual complaints. It was as stupid as "You once said you don't have "energy", that's magical thinking, so you must have a schizotypal pd. You also said you're irritable, that's borderline pd." and so on. Literally. They told my SO "it's probably too late, it's only going to worsen from now on" and I should be put in asylum for good, plus they won't give me any meds unless I do so. When I said I don't agree with the diagnosis and they might really want to find another explanation, they laughed straight into my face and basically brushed it off as delusions. After the diagnosis they started to treat me like I wasn't even a human anymore. I mean, what the hell, even if they were right, schizophrenics don't deserve that attitude! Me and my SO walked away furious and never came back. From what I've heard, it's a very common experience for people on the spectrum all across the country, and sometimes outside of it. There maybe are a few young and "progressive" specialists out there, who *maybe* can spot adult autism, but they're hard to find and expensive, not everyone can afford that. As someone who genuinely wants professional help, I hate to say this, but I have enough problems in my life, and I'm sure others do, too. Self-help works good enough for me. Pardon my rant, but people who seek for diagnosis might as well want to be aware of stuff like this and take it into consideration. I don't want to discourage anyone, but please, be careful. TL;DR: "Hello, I think I have ASD and I thought you might he-" "Jesus christ, you're goddamn schizo psychopath! Lock them up!"

[@brandonheald9624]

Stay safe friend. I haven't any advice accept for that. Maybe just keep self studying on the issue, read books and try to work out the things that cause your life stress and find coping methods. If what you say is a common system, stay away from that system.

[@catatheart5659]

@Valera Ost. Scary 😱 and that’s the problem, besides the cost. Very few of the professionals are up-to-date with the latest understanding of adult autism. Being labeled with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia is very probable. It brings to mind the movie “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.” But I think an accurate diagnosis could be very valuable and useful in the work setting, for therapy, and just in general - for validation. So it seems most important to pick your professional very carefully.

[@randihadfield8170]

I am so sorry that happened to you!

[@murmea_meoi]

It's because autism must be diagnosed by neurologist, not psychiatrist. Neurologist-psychoterapeut is a perfect choice. But as far as I know, they only diagnose children.

[@ththrtjhy5341]

I've had the same experience in Denmark - I was diagnosed with Paranoid Schizophrenia for unfounded reasons as well. I've never had any sort of psychosis - I'm heaping pile of what they'd call "negative symptoms", a.k.a. bad executive functions. I questioned the diagnosis so many times, did my own research and presented them with better options many times, but they would not budge. Everything was because of Schizophrenia, even if it did not fit with the diagnosis at all. I used to joke that if my leg fell of they'd blame it on Schizo. It's outrageous because the psychotic symptoms are really the main basis of Schizo and the executive troubles can fit so many other diagnosis's, so to claim that "some people can have Schizo without psychotic symptoms" is really going out of your way to make it fit what you want it to fit. They also always warned me that I would probably get psychotic at some point. Having the label as Schizo absolutely sucks when it's not true - it's such a "taboo" and serious diagnosis in the way that people with the diagnosis tends to be seen as someone who might cause trouble in one way or another. There were several opportunities I reached out to that told me I wasn't allowed because of my diagnosis. When people asked what my diagnosis was I used to never tell them the name, but explain my symptoms. It makes you feel like people won't take it seriously, being able to simply say "I have ASD" is such a relief because I don't have to keep explaining that I don't fit the diagnosis and I don't have these and these symptoms. I'm so obviously ASD that I feel confident that I could tell someone to go look it up and they'd have a good foundation to understanding me and my troubles. I hope you are doing okay despite this happening to you. I know for me it messed me up so bad - especially the meds they forced me to take because I was underage at the time.

[@ritabn493]

I need a diagnosis, because i went my whole life feeling like an imposter, like i never belonged to anything, nit with my family, nor my friends , and i just blamed it all on me being a bad and poor individual. But after doing a lot of research i finally realized that i might of had finally found what i am , who i am , and that i wasn't alone , and if this little bit of hope that i managed to gather lately will be disregarded i will feel very lost , more lost than i ever was

[@Stellaaahmanella]

Me too, hoping to get some answers but really afraid of what if it isn't this :')

[@natem7129]

I feel the exact same way

[@carolvogelman5261]

Be brave and cultivate people you can confide in! Inside the aspie mind is a pretty constant confusing chatter and no one knows you better than you! Maybe find a group?

[@l.kozasdiary7958]

You described me perfectly! I'm getting a formal diagnosis next month

[@dimpsthealien333]

Watching this and in tears. Age 50+, female, know I have ASD but can't get an official diagnosis. I don't really "need" it for financial reasons but just so I can have a name to this torment that has affected every aspect of my life. And yes, I feel greatly misunderstood and left behind. I just want to fit somewhere and know I'm not alone.

[@shoshanafox727]

I am 64, female, self diagnosed at 60. Paul has a Facebook group as well. It's very good. 🙂

[@stevealexander2649]

Im 64 and have nothing official, have similar feeling to you and may well be on the spectrum

[@dimpsthealien333]

@@shoshanafox727 thank you

[@dimpsthealien333]

@@stevealexander2649 thank you

[@deborahleeschmidel4842]

I hear you. I'm 67 and have recently realized that a.lot of the struggles that I have had in life, with relationships, hard to make friends, and feeling so different. I believe I have Asperger's but it would be reassuring to have a diagnosis

[@meerasolomon3507]

I really appreciate how this is framed. I think the “valid for what?” question is so important but missed in the some of the discussions I’ve seen. I have that external validation through the autistic community, and seeing myself in others for the first time at 33 is good enough for me. As I’m not seeking accommodation, my self identification is enough to help me understand and explain myself better.

[@stephenhowe4107]

valid that it is truth. It may not be

[@YesBruv105]

@@stephenhowe4107 yeah, I think that's where the true meaning of 'my truth' comes in. One person knows something to be true, but they have no evidence to make that an objective truth for all. So 'my truth' accepts this by not having to prove or justify your truth to others, (agree to disagree) BUT also realise that it can never be accepted as objective truth for anyone else when there is no evidence. Live and let live, does not mean socially coerce, through self appointed victimhood and scream 'oppression' when one does not get their way... That would be entitlement, and narcissism.

[@stephenhowe4107]

@@YesBruv105 : Perhaps I should explain more. I am both Aspergers and Alexithymia, but currently not officially diagnosed. Having said that, a friend of mine who has known me since 1981 at University, is a retired Clinical psychologist, says I am autistic. Independently of her, another friend of mine, an expert at teaching difficult children, American, known me since 1993, says I am autistic. I have also done Professor Simon Cohen's online 50 question test. 28 questions is enough to rate your chances as 85% you have Aspergers and I scored 37/50. My father before he passed away recognised this in me. And I have done the Toronto test on Alexithymia and scored highly. Having said this, I thought a work colleague had Asperger's and said so. He said he has been tested twice, and in both cases the answer was no. Instead he had dyspraxia. I was shaken by this and so I say leave diagnosis to the experts but maybe get more than 1 test by independent people if you are uncertain.

[@Petertwohig1948]

Valid for me. I know more about it - and me - than anyone I've ever met. I was born in 1948. If I told you my history, you'd cry. Thanks for your great work.

[@no_peace]

Yeah same here, compared to my community. I'm a special educator and I'm autistic. I was finally able to get diagnosed but I had to go by self-id for many years and people (with no autism background) were extremely dismissive

[@edwigcarol4888]

So so many suffer a lot on this earth. Thich nhat hanh: out of mud (suffering) make Lotus flowers (tolerance love patience compassion deep understanding). You are rich of mud, i wish you grow such beautiful flowers in your soul . (Born 1955)

[@carolinemacrae6227]

Peter. I had atough time too. Then people say you're not autistic even 5hough you have the diagnoses and would not mention without it. They say you always get the autism card out hen you only just got it. And your explaining that people are bullying you for being autistic and saying you're doing things wrong because of it when they interfere with you at the pub. I got barred because they got fed up with some drunk stalking me and threatening me with rape.

[@wendychan6679]

I have never been officially diagnosed but I don't see the point (for me) in doing so. With what I found out about myself I actually felt a bit of relief as it explains so many things.

[@carolinemacrae6227]

@@wendychan6679 the reason why I had to know is because I needed to understand myself, the reason why I had to confirm it, was so I was permitted to say I have autism. 5hinking that neurotypicles are average intelligence and above is the biggest mistake I ever ad they use it against you, so do below a wage nonneurotypicle people who think they can use me as a diversion from their stupidity. But it just confirms what they are. Never mind them. It is very lonely. There are way too many humans in this world yet no-one available to talk sense locally. I like dogs and dog loving people. I get told, when I say I'm fed up with a certain person giving me more hassle since my diagnosis, you always play the autism card Caroline! I only had it three years, amd it was not me playing it it was them. They will always be prats but I must stay true to myself, these bullies hate me for that because they don't have the courage to be a real person. Also without a diagnosis, you can't get the help you need to get by in a human world which only caters for neurotypiclw people and everyone needs not only to survive but to live to their gillest potential. Ofcourse that is still not likely got most autistic people living in an area with no buses arriving and leaving when it says on the timetable. Perhaps you don't need a diagnosis. Autism affects some people for the better and others are in a bad way. Especially if they have asthma and other issues. We are not just one thing. The asthma in my case takes zll my energy away and starves my brain of oxygen, and worsens 5he ocd. I also have a disease that the cdc suspiciously pretends does not exist. There is a scientist froffessor who said they did not use one single Morgellon's sufferer in the Morgellon's test. They only used mental patients all of which had dellusions of parasitosis. The cdc said the fluff was from the carpet because to naked eye it could be. But under microscope it looks different. And dr randy wymore PhD said fbi examined the fibres and told him the material they're made of is not known to man. Also people with compromised immune system such as autistics are vulnerable to this limes related virus. Another reason to be diagnosed. And pancreatic cancer and gut issues are a symptom often found in autistic people. So we need to know our own body to look after it. Also, if only I had been diagnosed before I took my aliens. Because of the autism I was distracted by coughing and sniffing throwout the entire exam csusingbme to fail, even though I was told I was really bright at that subject. These days ztud3nts get a device for b.ocking out irritating background sound. nuancehear.com/contact-us/

[@Runawayer]

I went to a doctor for a professional diagnosis for myself, since I struggle with my self at times. I just wanted to confirm this 'officially' despite knowing I was definitely on the spectrum. I got my diagnosis on Tuesday and I am both happy and not, for finally having some clarity about what I felt and how I interacted with the world. Took me 35 years to get here, but here I am. I still believe self-diagnosis is valid and dislike the gatekeepers that pop up occasionally.

[@pariahmouse7794]

I see so many people here validating self-diagnosis, I think that is so beautiful - Maybe we can be the support for one another that we can't find in the mental health industry (that's one of the problems right there, it shouldn't be an "industry"- you cannot monetize health, that f-ing insane... And yet America beats on, battering people who have already been battered enough by life- if you diverge from typical in ANY way you are screwed, especially in this country...)

[@PC_Ringo]

Absolutely. I strongly suspect I am autistic based on my own evaluations using online tests and due the deep connection I am having when consuming content like this from Paul. Got my appointment booked for late this year though...

[@EdwardRoss]

I got my official diagnosis this week. There is certainly a different feeling from being self-identifying to being diagnosed by trained professionals. I think I was happier with it just being something I knew for myself but I can't go back now. And I wasn't ever going to be able to fully accept it until it was officially diagnosed, so it was sort of Catch 22. I'd say to anyone looking for a full diagnosis: be absolutely sure you want it as there is no going back.

[@sjzara]

I’m 60. Some months ago I tried the AQ just out of curiosity and scored 44. I was very surprised, so researched and tried more assessments and almost always scored high. I honestly had no idea, because I didn’t think I matched my impression of what autism is. Once I posted my self-diagnosis on various Internet places, I have had the feedback that friends with autism had already assumed I was autistic! I’m really grateful for your contributions - they are some of the most helpful I have come across.

[@stevenr5149]

Well said. For me work is a consideration. Ironically I am a nurse and work in an ER and I have observed throughout my career diagnoses of different things being used against staff. Do you want your boss and coworkers to know that you have it? If I have never gotten a formal diagnosis I can sign all of my paperwork officially “no”- and I wouldn’t be doing anything illegal. Life on the spectrum is difficult enough especially if you’re independent and or alone. “Coming out” can use up a lot of emotional energy and throw your life off the rails.

[@jenlovesthisstuff]

I have a diagnosis but have not and will not reveal this in the workplace exactly for those reasons. I am a nurse too!

[@CristalianaIvor]

@@jenlovesthisstuff luckyly in other countries - e.g. Germany where I live - it's actually illegal for your employer to ask you such things / force you to reveal diagnosees. I think there might be some exceptions to this clause but only in extreme cases/very dangerous jobs.

[@edwigcarol4888]

@@CristalianaIvor Deutschland habe bessere Menschen Rechte als die USA, glaube ich

[@Telindra]

Currently forced to be self diagnosed. I don't have the money to pay for an assessment via a private clinic, and the average waiting time when going through the national health care system is several years... IF they even let you go through one that is. When I got informed of this a month or so back I dropped my jaw. 10 years ago it was an average of 3-6months waiting time. Now it's years. In comparison, would I had the money? Average wait time is 2 weeks... What currently irks me the most though, whenever I'm in contact with my therapist at my local doctors office, is how she continuously brings up "you might not be autistic", while at the same time is uncomfortably (for me) IMPRESSED with my level of self awareness, understanding of myself and how I function as a person. She keeps repeating how great I am at these things, and that I should feel proud of myself. It's rare to be so knowledgeable, apparently. SO, why then do you keep telling me I might not be autistic? I've done the research, I've interviewed my parents about my childhood, I've spoken to others on the spectrum, I've taken multiple tests, I AM AUTISTIC. It doesn't feel great being stuck with this attitude of "you might not be" for how many years it is I'll have to wait for that assessment. I don't understand how that is supposed to do me any good? How that limbo way of thinking is going to enable me to help myself, or get help. Especially when what drove me to seek out help in the first place is that I realized I need it, if I want to have a decent chance at a decent life. Which wasn't that easy to come to terms with in the first place, took me almost a year actually, after accidentally stumbling upon an Aspie YT content creator that spoke about things that were dead on accurate on how things are for me. Sorry for the rant. Just super frustrated today about this particular matter.

[@Ollieya945]

The symptoms are true and valid to the individual that experiences them, regardless of diagnosis or not.

[@jfern4813]

Some people who are autistic have questioned self diagnosis and weren't happy that self dx were in the group.

[@gonnfishy2987]

you are like my missing twin i never had, who actually understands my experience in a world where no one else does 💓

[@virglibrsaglove]

I'm guessing a lot of us here would understand you. We're from the auspi world, too. 🤗

[@gonnfishy2987]

@@virglibrsaglove 🙃😉🙃

[@meme8540]

For me the piece of paper would be the icing on the cake

[@DougsShack]

My realization came when my daughter was diagnosed. It brought back some memories I had left to the past. In the light of everything I learned since her diagnosis, I realized I had a very stereotypical (a.k.a. from media) view of what autism is. I'm still learning.

[@Treski08]

Same my son hasn’t been officially diagnosed yet but ima let u guy judge this and tell me if I’m crazy my son just turned 2 he is my literal twin he always look grumpy always look like he’s got something on his mind very intelligent but he doesn’t interact or respond to his name I figured it was just my genes cause I was and still am in ways like that but I kid you not I did some research and it tore my heart out my chest learning the truth because I grew up always wanting to never wake up because I was so different I was so introverted that even the people I did convince to like would loose interest in me thinking it was my physical flaws my big head but skinny body being short having crooked teeth not knowing what was really going on so with me trying to fit in it made me stand out even more to where I had mental breakdowns from all the spankings I got cause in my mind I couldn’t control myself to stop my mom or dad from hurting me I physically couldn’t just be a normal kid to save my life literally your videos have changed my life I feel like a superhero now I always knew I was different honestly I thought autistic people were more kin to DS but I feel like where just outta the box thinkers

[@Kobolds_in_a_trenchcoat]

I was diagnosed and didn't believe it for years because I was lower support needs than most stereotypical media portrayals and don't flap my hands at all (I stim a lot, just not in that particular way). Frankly, I'm actually pretty Able-ist and really trying to stop thinking like that.

[@alwkw3783]

Thank you for this information. I'm in my late thirties and only a couple of months into realizing my autism. Your 25 questions video was really a big lightbulb moment. I feel like a huge weight has been lifted off of me.

[@tonyfeld5403]

"It's been a roller coaster, nothing has changed" LOL

[@Crouteceleste]

@Glosi dove haha nothing has changed for me neither except more inner appeasement and that's a lot !!

[@keodantes3907]

Same. 38 and saw the signs you might be autistic and then other episodes. And I'm fine knowing. I don't think an official really does much. As I can't change much. I'm sad cause it took me this long to know. Maybe if I was in my teens I might've tried.

[@cyohe8643]

@alwkw I took that test too: 23 out of 25

[@ththrtjhy5341]

I was misdiagnosed with Paranoid Schizophrenia when I was 16 and at the age of 19 I got an early retirement because my executive functions are so bad that I am not able to function with daily life, let alone any sort of work. Because the diagnosis was so obviously wrong (I have never had any psychotic symptoms) and the psychiatry was unwilling to listen, I have spent so many years researching mental health for myself in order to figure out what is "wrong" with me. For many years I never found anything that fit, and already having one misdiagnosis and knowing how horrible that can be, I did not want to get it wrong myself. I autumn 2018 I first discovered ADHD - specifically the inattentive type and how it might show in women. I was able to convince my mom that she likely has it too, and she got a diagnosis within a month. I feel confident that I have ADHD but a lot of things still didn't add up, and about a few months ago is when I finally discovered Autism and now my entire life makes sense. I've been able to piece together the puzzle of having Autism and ADHD, and having developed Complex PTSD, Depression and Generalized Anxiety from my experiences and the way my mind handles things. I can't get an official diagnosis both because I have already been in contact with the only doctor available, and he told me over the phone - without asking me any relevant questions himself - that I can't have ADHD because I'm tired a lot (obviously because of Depression, which is a common recurring diagnosis with ADHD/Autism) so needless to say I don't trust his judgment. Furthermore I would need to have the diagnosis of Paranoid Schizophrenia removed, which would mean they would take away my pension and I'm simply too much of a mess to have to go out and find a job. I am almost 30 and I have never had a job; I'm struggling just to do the dishes. I'm worrying about the legitimacy of self diagnosing as well, but the so called professionals don't seem to know what they are doing and at this point I trust my own judgment more. My mom also had a misdiagnosis and no medication ever helped her, but after I figured out she has ADHD and she got the proper meds she's had some improvement. The psychiatry never discovered her ADHD despite her having had frequent contact with them for over 30 years. Mental health professionals need a lot more education on ADHD and Autism.

[@DevonExplorer]

The fact that you are trusting your own judgement more is brilliant! I absolutely agree with you about a lot of doctors; they don't seem to have the training that encompasses a good general basis. I haven't gone for an official diagnosis for this very purpose. Like Paul, I took an online test (I did mine with the Cambridge Research Centre into Asperger's and autism - which is a British one) then took an online course in Autism with FutureLearn, which was brilliant. And, I just kept watching loads of videos by Paul and other Aspies. If you don't mind the advice, just keep learning as much as you can from watching and reading. I found that it's not only been a huge eye-opener and affirmation of my condition but has also been a humungous help with the condition too, including gaining a lot more confidence. And a big relief at knowing what's wrong. All the very best. :)

[@terranovarubacha5473]

We're in basically the same boat. I'd hand you a paddle but I can't seem to find mine either

[@ththrtjhy5341]

@@DevonExplorer Yes, watching a lot of videos to hear from other people with ASD is really an amazing thing to be able to do. I believe it was Paul that said in a video that one way to also gauge if you might be on the spectrum is to be around other people on the spectrum, because feeling that you relate to the diagnosis is such a huge thing. I used to watch videos on Schizo and I could not see myself in any of it. With ASD it's absolutely overwhelming how many things I've learned stems from it and that's why I feel confident in saying that I definitely have ASD. It's so all-encompassing that it's in everything you do - even the way Paul speaks and his mannerisms immediately made me feel "holy, this guy has the same "aura" as me!" Though he is much better at speaking, I'm still very bad at it but trying and trying so I can make some better videos of my own. :)

[@ththrtjhy5341]

@@terranovarubacha5473 I've lost sight of the boat entirely. Where's my life west?

[@jaumeborras9303]

You have to know you have been in the wrong hands as there already exist enough evidence to say that schizophrenia is the diametrical opposite spectrum of autism. In fact we are threatened by the business of psychiatry and psychology as they in general don't really have ANY clue about "non schyophrenic autism". In fact the word "autism" is already wrong as it was invented to describe the symptoms of schyzophrenia. It's so bad that it will not be accepted as standard many years from now as it is very cheap to get a medical diagnosis.

[@jenniferreisch478]

I have become aware that I am Autistic and also have ADD when I began working in reading recovery/tutoring at age 29. I was the clinician who could work with the more difficult children and begin to open our non-profit to working with kids who are on the spectrum. I was aware because I had to constantly do testing and intake for kids to place them in the program and I was later involved in education research. The qualities and characteristics of these conditions were constantly listed for me and after awhile it was difficult to ignore that they were like reading a list of my personality traits. I tried to seek a diagnosis three years ago and my life totally unraveled. I also suffer from severe PTSD from childhood emotional neglect, severe bullying, and later as an adult, multiple sexual traumas, homelessness, kidnapping, and more I don't want to keep listing. I have been offered diagnosis of disthymia (low-grade depression) when I masked completely, generalized anxiety, depression, major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and then in 2018, bi-polar. No matter what I showed them of the 133 questionaire checklist of from Samantha Craft or my request to be evaluated, I was dismissed and treated with meds for depression and bi-polar that numbed me and made me unable to even participate in therapy. My therapist of 9 years believes me and understands, but she can't diagnose me. I have state healthcare because I can't hold down a job at 40 and I also have some debilitating undiagnosed chronic pain issues, but that also means I don't really have any say it what treatment or doctors I get. I have no power to say "no, that is not right" and when I did, I was belittled, medicated, hospitalized, and in 2018 pretty abused by emergency care providers in ambulances, ERs and by law enforcement. I experience severe trauma over and over again and eventually I was locked up for a psych ward for weeks until I agreed to take the Lithium and all the drugs they wanted me to take. I still wish to seek a diagnosis, but it feels so triggering and I feel like trying to get help can sometimes just cause more trauma. I live in Colorado, a few hours from where Elijah McClain was killed when law enforcement was called because he was dancing down the street at night listening to headphones. He is Autistic and tried to explain to officers, but he is Black and they ended up having the emergency care providers drug him with ketamine. He fell into a coma and never woke up. I was similarly drugged in the ER, lost three days and woke up in a psych ward. I appreciate your video (s) a lot as I try to decide how to proceed and what is best for me so that I can actually feel alive in this world that doesn't really accept me or believe me. Being wired "weird" is really tough but youtube videos from others with similar struggles is really helping me find acceptance inside myself.

[@happytexaschristy]

An online test was enough for me. My son’s formal diagnosis is the only reason I began to wonder and did an online test. It’s been eye opening for me. I don’t need a formal diagnosis.

[@justjust8953]

If you’re able, a formal diagnosis is totally worth it because it will test for your personal strengths. For example I learned I have a verbal strength.

[@Maverick.D.]

Same.

[@coreycox2345]

It was made clear to me. So clearly. I agree, C H R I S T Y. I am 65, but I still see a value to meeting others and knowing what is the same about them. I suspect that I have already gravitated to friends on the spectrum.

[@reggiep75]

I've done quite a few online tests to ensure that I'm not wasting time but definitely feel that my results warrant me making an appointment to see my doctor to come armed with a fair amount of info and getting a proper referral to a specialist. I just don't want to make a mistake but the other part of me in my head is looking and thinking 'Yep.. This sounds like us so get that appointment sorted soon, even if this pandemic is going on!''

[@coreycox2345]

There is no cure or treatment, reggiep75. I don't see how it would benefit me.

[@TERFStomper]

Many of us here in the USA don't have access to an official diagnosis. For those whose insurance doesn't cover mental healthcare or who have no insurance at all, it can cost thousands of dollars out-of-pocket to get tested. Also, depending on where a person lives, they may have to travel long distances to find therapists who are competent in adult diagnosis.

[@MaaveMaave]

Health insurance has been getting a little better since COVID lockdown. My job provided free therapy for several months and now my insurance covers it. I work for a bank though so maybe this is an exception

[@delphinebez3045]

I self diagnosed a few weeks ago, thanks to the internet community, and I keep discovering more traits (I thought I didn't have...) every single day ! I guess I will get officially diagnosed when I'm ready, out of curiosity, mostly. But I don't need no neuro psych specialist to TELL ME what I KNOW. I guess those who need it are my friends. Sadly. But I don't expect any neuro typical brain to understand what we experience. This is hidden, mostly. A whole life experience only autistic people can relate to and validate. Others will just go like: you're normal, don't look back, you're great as you are, you might just identify to a label and get depressed for nothing... Wot ? What are they talking about ? What do they know about what it feels to realize you've been autistic for 56 years ? So yes, maybe I'll seek an official diagnosis just to shut some mouths and be left alone.

[@thetakongpancake1003]

Seems a doctor would need you to answer all kinds of questions that only you could answer before he could reach a diagnosis and that sounds like what fake psychics do. I am autistic, 65 years old, and I dont need to tell anyone about myself to have them turn around to tell me what I am. Thanks for videos O:) '

[@mikob8453]

They also have you answer very specific questions that might not capture the whole picture, and the questions are often about your time as a kid, which you can’t really remember well anyways.. and then they tell you you’re wrong in your understanding of yourself because they have “criteria” and “work a lot with autistic people so they know”.

[@Maria-up2yv]

That's a really interesting point of view. I like that. It will stick with me.

[@anymahlsevynn4209]

hey paul...im going through the process right now, i found out i was autistic watching videos like yours. basically my whole life flashed before my eyes, it was a total revelation. ive had an evaluation with my psychologist and she says that yes, it makes a whole lot of sense. years ago i was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and borderline, but i always felt it was wrong. my close friends would say no youre not bipolar. now that i know what the "problem" is, i feel so much better, i feel less of an alien, that there are others like me. thank you so much for your videos, they really help me understand what its all about. cheers!

[@edwardrook8146]

Same here

[@Acceleronics]

Depends on your definition of valid. I doubt any self-diagnosis is legally binding. But it may have a sound basis in logic and/or fact. I think the more important question is if the self-diagnosis is accurate. According to my professional psychologist, mine was. If you need a professional diagnosis to convince others, then that might be another way to define valid.

[@jasonuren3479]

Totally agree with this. I've just been reading all these comments saying it's not 'valid.' And they made me angry. All I could think was, 'define valid.' I believe valid is a very misleading word in this context. It just brings up so many other questions. Such as, 'valid to who?' I believe, as you say, a more appropriate question in this context is, is the diagnosis accurate.

[@ithacacomments4811]

I went to counseling at age 67 for anxiety. I felt that I had autism traits...also INFJ. My counselor agreed that I most likely I am on the spectrum. She also stated that I seemed to be high functioning. That I had moved through life so far. That I had developed coping skills to be successful in many areas if my life. I completed College, Married, Raised children, Held employment. She also acknowledged how difficult and challenging my life journey must have been. She saw no value or purpose in getting a formal diagnosis at 67.

[@catatheart5659]

@Ithaca Thank you for sharing your experience. Im thinking, WHY would doctor say there’s no value in diagnosing autism, just because the person has managed to cope with it most of his/her life? Or why would a doctor hold back from diagnosing ANYTHING? For example, if you were to go to a medical doctor with an a sprained wrist, with the obvious accompanying symptoms, would they hesitate to diagnose a sprained wrist? (No!) and they might even send you to a physical therapist to make sure you heal properly and regain full use of your wrist. Maybe part of the problem is they don’t presently have a definitive test (like a blood test, for example). But many things are similarly difficult to diagnose, yet they hand out those diagnoses rather freely. I really am just guessing here (I don’t have full knowledge of the medical and psychiatric system) but I think there’s another reason doctors may not want to give a diagnosis of autism, and it’s not always out of concern for the patient. It may be they are protecting themselves from coming under scrutiny by their superiors, like those establishments which govern their licensing, etc. What are other reasons they wouldn’t give a diagnosis? (Maybe some other commenters have ideas...I’m sure there are other reasons.). But in my mind, that reason (due to age) is not valid. It should have been given anyway, almost like a Medal of Honor for the supreme effort it took for you (Ithaca) to hurdle the events of life in a neurotypical world successfully. Saying that a person is “successful” (by doing all those things of life, like college, working, raising children, etc.) is true, but it doesn’t take into account the extreme difficulties that were involved for one with even “high-functioning” autism to be so successful... especially for having done it all without even knowledge of the reason for those difficulties or specific support for them. Because I believe that a proper diagnosis could be of value even after a long period of being undiagnosed. Well, at least this doctor confirmed the autism, even while withholding a formal diagnosis. That’s a little more affirming than getting a “high-probability-of-autism” score on the various tests one could self-administer. Also formal diagnosis could help if there was a need for any medication, and there are probably other situations in which it would be useful to be formally diagnosed even late in life. It seems to be that the world is having a hard time keeping up with current knowledge. Thanks to Paul and others who are helping the autistic community.

[@jasonuren3479]

I've just been reading all these comments saying it's not 'valid.' And they made me angry. All I could think was, 'define valid.' I believe valid is a very misleading word in this context. It just brings up so many other questions. Such as, 'valid to who?' I believe a more appropriate and useful question in this context is, is the diagnosis accurate.

[@DivineHealingPath]

I was with a personal development coach for years and I noticed during our last year, I kept telling her that when too much is happening around me, my brain shuts down and I can't verbally respond. I spoke about my brain feeling different a few times. I used to be teased and still am from others for not being spontaneous enough and needing routine to function as well as not speaking when around others. I get told I'm rude or weird for not engaging in conversations. Sometimes, it's because I don't feel comfortable to open up. Mostly, it's just because I really don't know how to have a conversation. I've never understood small talk. I can do "Hi! How are you? I am good, thanks." Then that's it. I honestly have no clue where to go from there... I am so glad to find this channel. So much resonates. Thank you.

[@j09k06]

Most of the time though when people tell us we're not good at conversation we're just not good at their meaning of conversation, we're ura without the omote in many ways

[@mariebaker2375]

I am 57 years old and for the first time visiting the hair dresses I didn't leave traumatized because I said I have autism and talking will be difficult, it made things so much easier, Marie

[@parkermarlie4083]

Thank you for this video. My boyfriend has ASD and I have never related to someone the way I relate to him. He is actually the one who first questioned if I had autism and he is my validation. Thank god for him and for you and this youtube channel

[@francescoleman-williams911]

I’m so glad you’ve recognised that for some friends and family, the formal diagnosis isn’t enough.......!

[@_TheShiv]

I haven’t done it because I haven’t personally needed to. Plus, I don’t feel mentally prepared for going through the medical system again after 20+ years of fighting to find a medical professional who would confirm my suspected endometriosis. And the only way to know for sure is investigative surgery for that. So I am definitely already in the mindset of if and when I need it, I will ask to have it investigated. Last week I had a call with a recruiter who had sent me for an interview which was the first one in my life I decided not to mask for. Even she noticed. So now it’s me, my family, and my ex who I was with for over 10 years AND someone in my professional life who have noticed it. And the more often this happens, the less often I feel I need a professional diagnosis, because I don’t need medical support, just the understanding of the people close to me and in my line of work. I still feel guilt for “aspergersing wrong” though.

[@Phatsultan]

I thought I was autistic for a long time but I was in my 20s and had the energy to cope with an NT workplace. As I got into my 30s I no longer had that energy so got a diagnosis (it took me 18 months in the UK) so that my workplace had to make changes to my working environment. My mum thinks she is also on the spectrum but is retired and never got a diagnosis, and now doesn’t think there’s any point as it won’t change any aspect of her life. I respect her self-diagnosis and everyone else’s.

[@superyan4100]

I'm in the UK and thinking about it, but believe doctors would probably laugh it off. What kind of changes did you get at work?

[@Phatsultan]

@@superyan4100 I’m allowed to start and finish work an hour earlier so I get a quiet hour in the morning. I can listen to music as long as it doesn’t distract others. If the office gets too intense I can flexi 15 minutes and go outside for a walk around the block.

[@superyan4100]

@@Phatsultan That's nice, thanks for the response 🙂

[@astrius4125]

@@Phatsultan Omg that 'quiet hour' at work sounds like a dream come true.

[@jimmiecgray]

Even if you want to be "officially" diagnosed enjoy a year long waiting list.

[@caseyrybacksniper]

I've heard my friend's neighbor's kid that acts like I did when I was a kid is suspected of being on the spectrum. Then after a few weeks of looking through symptoms, I went on a trip with my friend and his autistic stepson. I looked through a lot of your videos, others' videos, and different pages. Everything made sense after watching your videos and getting a near perfect score on the online test twice. I'm not getting diagnosed by a Dr to find out what I already know now thanks to you. Thanks and have a good day.

[@autismenlightenment]

Self diagnosis is absolutely valid. Many seek out diagnosis and are misdiagnosed because the assessor is ignorant. Others dont have the 2,000$ that are required for a professional evaluation. If you are able to get a diagnosis it is still often not acknowledged as a disability and there is not an abundance of assistance for adults on the spectrum so a certification on paper is often not even beneficial when you do secure it. You dont need outside authorizations to certify the truth.

[@anthonym9716]

Yes or if your face doesn’t fit they may even spitefully misdiagnose you that’s just my opinion anyway (as they work for the government most of them anyway )

[@peacefindersimply5001]

so true. They only know what they are told by you and a little of how you act around them which will normally be different anyways. Also, because you yourself don't know exactly what they need to know, you can unintentionally not tell them crucial things. This is also why i do believe self-diagnoses is rough, because often we miss things about ourselves that we never second guess because its so natural or you don't think about it in tandem with diagnoses.

[@ascendednightingale2456]

It’s absolutely 100% NOT valid. You do not know more than someone who went to school and trained for 8 or more years. Especially if you are getting your information from TikTok. Sorry to disappoint you, but you’re completely wrong.

[@playslaytion]

most ppl who actually understand self diagnosing do research my guy your spewing nonsense and being classist aswell

[@TheWorkingAussie]

@@ascendednightingale2456 No one who is researching autism is going off info from just tiktok. We're researching it hard and it's a thoughtful process. Not just taking a test, relating to a few traits, and calling ourselves autistic. If you read through comments on videos like this, you'll see many adults, especially women, who get misdiagnosed or dismissed by doctors.

[@Aiken47]

I have “friends” that think now I have a formal diagnosis that I need therapy to be “normal” their first question was ‘so what are you going to do about it, are you going to a therapist?’ I’m 52,just diagnosed and first self diagnosed at first through a hundred plus hours of research. I told them there is no cure, just strategies, they say I’m just using it as an excuse especially when it comes to meltdowns. They won’t want or read the information I provided. A great book is illustrated glimpses of Aspergers, in iBooks written for family, friends and workplaces, very short but very succinct

[@Stephanie568]

Then you don't need them in your life

[@averageandymusic]

Yeah, I am in a similar boat. I want a diagnosis to valid my experience, stop them bullying me and I've got people flashing strobes at me and think it's funny. And also to get small things sorted in work places. I don't need therapy for being ASD though some tips always help. And I walk away from people when I am angry. I go away and cool down or to recharge. Any relationship, work colleague etc should have a bit of give and take with you. We all need systems to feel comfortable.

[@sophiacromwell8017]

@@Stephanie568 sometimes you avoid having them in life (ex: jobs)

[@cathleenbaldwinmaggi2252]

What I have found now at 61 and really digging into what I first discovered about 20 years ago, I am on the Autism spectrum. I now know I am highly functioning and I do have bad days. I realize so many people who are in my life, especially those "kids" who adopted me as their mom, are autistic. It is like I have always been a magnet for those in the autism spectrum, probably simply because I accepted then as they are, always have. I do believe I am discovering that I need to shift my work and career to supporting our young adults more.

[@TheWhitePhoenix1]

Here's my story as a fellow Melbournian. Last year my partner who is very much into neural science and psychology helped me look into my own mental health and pushed me towards self examining. I began looking into autism as a special interest along with comorbidities that others in the community experienced. Whilst technical data heavy articles were useful, it was often channels such as yours that gave me the most insight. I would be able to recognise everything from shared experiences to subtle nuances in body language that just felt incredibly relatable. I would hear people say that they felt like an alien who just didn't seem to be a part of the world around them and relate at a profound level. I soon found connections to my physical health that had ties to autism such as bone density issues, hyper mobility and dyspraxia. Anxiety and shut downs suddenly had an explanation, I discovered that I had been experiencing autistic burnout throughout my whole life next knowing why. Because I have alexithymia, I wouldn't realise that anxiety attacks were not just stress or frustration but had a label I wasn't using. I learned that what I thought were headaches were actually migraines caused by sensory overload. Once I had a solid grip on all of this I effectively left the autistic closet and told my family and friends as well as work. In very rapid succession. In the case of my family, my sister already more or less knew but didn't know how to broach the subject. My parents had little knowledge of the autistic community beyond knowing yes there is an eccentric side to the family. Whilst it hasn't fixed every issue in the family it certainly has given some level of explanation and context as to why I am the way I am. It explained past behaviours and made it clear how some expectations of me simply weren't realistic based on who I am. My boss said he more or less sussed it out from the interview, knew I was very switched on and intelligent when he hired me and has neural diverse traits himself. Friends have all been supportive some sort of knew, some are autistic themselves and not a single person has made an issue of it. For formal testing no I don't need a Doctor to validate what I already know. I have supportive people around me and I can't imagine anything more taxing on me emotionally then having to unpack 4 decades of pain and suffering on a trained specialist.

[@patriciasampson9317]

I would love to get an official diagnosis, unfortunately with a history of depression, from 20 years ago, and owing a vagina, everything just gets called anxiety with a pat on the head. Maybe I should join a group to see if I fit but that'll be a mark against me because it'll count as 'looking for symptoms to mimick'. Our system sucks.

[@puppiesrlife]

Are you me lol? I'm in the same exact boat. It definitely sucks.

[@mansiranade48]

omg i relate to this so much!

[@lokcachte]

I got diagnosed with CPTSD, depression, and some other things. Wildly anxious about trying to get a diagnosis because it feels I have a number of qualifications that would make it impossible.

[@camj.8549]

People have told me my whole life that I am on the spectrum and it felt really hurtful to hear. It wasn’t till I started working with autistic kids that I realized I may be one of them and boy I tell ya, it was kind of a wake up call

[@winnym6806]

could you elaborate on "working with autistic children"? does it feel better rather than common children?

[@a_diamond]

Yeah, my kids are on the spectrum, and my initial reaction was "No! They aren't Autistic! How can they be?They are just like me!" XD They have a diagnosis, I have CPTSD, I guess it easy when you have one diagnosis to ignore another possible coexisting one.. to be fair, I didn't expect it either.

[@a_diamond]

@@winnym6806 good question, I hope Cam j. sees it and answers, I'd love to read it :)

[@stephenhookings1985]

The way I see it - everyone is on the Autistic Spectrum ... Everyone (to some degree). It's just some of us don't want to get off :-). LONGER VERSION I embrace the insight it (being Asperger's) gives me based on the continual need to model, frame and interpret actions of others I interact with, or information I read. Exhausting (hence more introvert which gets misinterpreted as extrovert during brain dump mode) but liberating when you meet friend you can tick with. Very few words exchanged and yet beautifully profound deep conversation - effortless and almost indecipherable to anyone who cannot tune in. What benefits? Well people you get to know cluster in behaviour groups and generally revert to type. Sure they have individual nuances but mostly their behaviour can be predicted - I can recall events in their lives better then that can. There is a danger when one meets new people to box them to early - but mostly it works - then look for the nuances and that gives a deeper insight into what they might want from a relationship with you (ie friendship, love, trust, a user, manipulation, hate speech, abuse / score points off you, collaboration, fraud (financial and intellectual), ...). I guess we all need some reassurance of contact with our own kind. The models I have made over past 50 years predict how lonely an Autist is likely to be - unless they can learn to model, mask and mirror NT behaviour and find some "me time" to be themselves - as I said unless you find someone with compatible attributes then this happens alone. just my experience - yours may vary. Just how much "me time" you get v what you need - depends on your financial / support resources. Indulge yourself and see where it gets you. Being what others want all of the time is just torture - so don't let yourself go there.

[@mr.rungus2516]

wtf do you mean "one of them"

[@n1fffan]

I'm currently 33, the only diagnosis I received through my life was Emotional Dysregulation Disorder (which I only found out in my late teens/early 20s because I mentioned to my mother that I suspected that I could have ADD, to which she replied "I'm not sure about ADD, but you were diagnosed with something called EDD", which led to me doing research it... which doesn't seem to be a very common diagnosis). As I dug deeper, I started reading about aspergers (and of course autism by extension), finding that I was noticing stuff that sounded a lot like me and issues I have. At some point, when I brought the possibility up to my mom, she told me that my brother told her the same thing (about me) several years earlier (I may have been anywhere around 10 at the time) after watching a documentary on it. I'm not sure how an actual diagnosis was never made considering the fact that the majority of my schooling, I was a special education student, and until I was 15, I saw a therapist every week, but due to the fact I was never officially diagnosed, I had a hard time out and out saying I was autistic out of sheer fact that it was a self-diagnosis. It actually wasn't until about this past year, finding out that toe walking was a pretty common thing for people on the spectrum (and considering I do that a lot, and have since I could walk... something my mom pointed out to doctors that went ignored by them when I was a kid) that I actually began to actually be comfortable saying that I am, or likely am on the spectrum, that piled with the results of the AQ test I took online, the way I relate to most aspies I meet online, and everything I knew before, the only thing i think holding me back from getting an actual diagnosis is that I'm not sure where to get started (I don't have a primary care doctor and going to see a doctor is an extremely rare thing for me)

[@BarbaraMerryGeng]

I’m so appreciative of Paul - I am gaining understanding w. myself, my family members, and my many, many artistic & nerdy friends. > For far too long we were treated as kids w. behavioral problems, or mental disorders, We were consistently punished , mis diagnosed & medicated ( doped up ) .. > To know your self / is a big game changer, And of course, being accepted is totally heaven !! 👍🏼🦉🧸🧡😊👀

[@virglibrsaglove]

I just had to say, this was really helpful to me. Even the moments when you thought you weren't doing a good job. First of all, you did a fantastic job. Your difficult moments were actually further validation to me of my own self diagnosis because I can easily imagine myself doing the exact same thing. And your comments about finding validation through others in the community were very helpful. I find that validation through watching videos like these and participating in the comments section. I actually feel much more at peace now in saying with confidence that I am self diagnosed on the autistic spectrum. Though I might seek official diagnosis someday, too, because it does significantly effect my life. Anyway, I wanted to say thank you for this video. It really did help me.

[@Mrs.Silversmith]

If your goal in getting an official diagnosis is to be "accepted" by others for who you are and to have your struggle validated by them, then you are seeking diagnosis for the wrong reasons. NTs often have an instinctive aversion to people on the spectrum. This can result in a situation where subconsciously they'd rather blame the autistic person for that discomfort. Hence, Autism as an idea, an experience, a personal reality, is frequently rejected and denied by others around us. Having the stamp of officialdom will not make those who reject you suddenly change their minds.

[@augustseptember8406]

I was accidentally diagnosed (not through official tests but a psychiatric told me after assessing my childhood history) and I didn't believe it until I did researches on my own.

[@george_1380]

I am self diagnosed have been since I was 22, I am now 33 years old. I have never felt the need for a formal diagnosis. I used to always ask my parents when I was a child what is wrong with me and they never gave me answer because the doctors told them I didn’t tick another box’s to be diagnosed.

[@unionkn7998]

Tho its kind of bad to be pilled up for a box or 2 or missing one or 2. In experience I struggle a lot more these days.

[@328am]

I’m 37 and I recently scored a 41 on the AQ but I just don’t feel the need to go through the process of being formally diagnosed (A large part is because there’s a huge lack of expertise in my state with anyone with Adult ASD experience). I’m not in need of meds or am lacking anything in life. I just don’t see how a diagnosis can help or will change anything at this point... but that’s just me o_O

[@SAZ-3500D]

That makes sense, I definitely don’t think everyone needs it. I was just diagnosed by my therapist (25 M) and went through the process with a neuro psych last week because I know when I tell my family that most probably won’t think it’s a real thing/think it’s an excuse to be lazy or antisocial... I have lots of problems like I only work a summer job and bunch of other stuff so I feel like I need a lot of help

[@vtmegrad98]

I've had multiple therapists recognize it on their own, with the last one saying 20 minutes into the first session "are you autistic?". That one was based on an interaction at the start of our first session where I couldn't tell if she was reaching for the clipboard with my "new patient" paperwork or reaching to shake my hand, and said exactly that. She initially thought that was just a tension breaking joke, then realized pretty quickly my near complete lack of a filter. On the plus side, now I know that most of what makes people say I'm funny are me asking legitimate questions. The questions just feel like "Seinfeld" style humor to most, apparently. But I agree about the lack of people to diagnose adults. I've been hunting for it actually, with no luck finding anything in my region.

[@BullScrapPracEff]

Sounds like a familiar story... I'm now 37, hit about a 42 (about a year ago), and live in a state where issues like this aren't much of a thing. You're not the only one in a canoe on a river full of yachts. 😉

[@Ge1Ri4]

@@BullScrapPracEff Those yachts can't see or maneuver around the rocks hiding just under the surface like we canoes and kayaks can!

[@er6730]

@@vtmegrad98 That (people thinking that you're funny when you weren't intending it to be funny) sounds so familiar! Growing up, I had what I thought was a bantering relationship with my cousin. She was quite funny, in an edgy kind of way. I enjoyed it for the most part. She'd be sassy at me, and I'd be sassy right back. Only, now that I know what autism can look like, and am sure she has it, I asked her about it. No, she wasn't being snarky or sarcastic or trying to annoy me by being picky about unimportant details, she was sincerely just trying to make sense of the world! I asked her, "So, what did you think of me, I was just randomly picking on you?" "Kind of. Sometimes you were nice, sometimes you were mean." 😖

[@pingupappa4021]

I'm a little bit jealous about how Australia now has summer, close to zero covid and no lockdown :)

[@michaelm7186]

Some intermittent lockdowns.

[@cock_sauce8336]

Oi mate, that sucks.

[@autisticgaming2004]

@@methylatedlysine How did it age like milk? Is Australia back in lockdown?

[@kathrinkaefer]

I do not like self-diagnosis and did not self-diagnose myself for several reasons. First, I have latched onto various diagnoses before as an explanation, but they turned out not to fit. Secondly, I wanted to have that absolute certainty for myself, and to be recognised by others. Thirdly, I find that many people in the online autistic community in particular are self-diagnosed while speaking for and over actual autistic people. I know how difficult it is to go through the system and get a diagnosis, but I think it's important to do it if at all possible.

[@thomasjamison2050]

I always knew i was not like most people, but I just ascribed that to having very high intelligence. But after I had a heart attack I fell into depression. That seemed to me to dramatically affect my concentration, and I began to wonder if it was just depression, partly because of the strange effects that showed up. My internist sent me to a shrink to get a prescription for depression and I asked the shrink for an evaluation. He didn't give me one, but he did give me part of the QB test and completely flunked it. I got the prescription for depression but it didn't help much, but then I got to studying the QB test and looking at youtube postings like this. I am currently being evaluated by someone else. I am sure the result will be interesting, but it doesn't really matter to me. What does matter is that QB test result because it strongly related some of my problems at work to autistic patterns. My first depression med didn't do much, but my second one, which is also used to treat ADHD, definitely helps though I am still on a low dosage at this point. I expect that will go up. I had taken this drug for a while and then did the classic response of getting off it because i felt better, then I fell back into severe depression, though not as deep as before. It's a trip. As long as I master my new vocation I will be happy however I get classified. Being classified is just someone else's opinion, and they will never know me quite as well as I will.

[@unionkn7998]

As someone with both adhd and asd I hope you find the help you need.

[@lionessrampant26]

I love when you said no one has ever asked to see a piece of paper from you. It was very reassuring. It's not fellow autists that demand the piece of paper; it's the neurotypical folks and all the systems they run. I'm hoping to get a diagnosis so I can have accommodations in grad school so I won't repeat the experience I had in undergrad--but the grad school doesn't care what I know to be true about myself without that stupid piece of paper!

[@Crouteceleste]

From my personal experience of a budding discovery of my autism (I'm 31), I would advise to try and meet autistic people as soon as you're comfortable enough with the idea of maybe being autistic ! I have met with some from my hometown through video chat last month for the first time and it was an eye-opening experience. Not much because of what we talked about, but the feeling I was with peers, reasonably at ease with them while not "playing human" was the thing that validated my self-diagnosis for me. Also during this meeting I talked a bit about the difficulties I was experiencing at that time, and they said it was very common among autistic people, so there's that, too.

[@lindsaysheffield]

I appreciate your take on this - hearing that the community is more focused on shared experiences than a (likely NT) professional’s opinion is helpful. I guess it’s kind of like my eating disorder support groups - we just support each other, not ask if you *really* have issues with food (though non-ED folks have no problem grilling you on it). I’ve strongly suspected Aspergers since around 2010, thinking “wow, besides the fact that I’m not male, this is exactly how my brain works,” when I started poking around different sites, and that was *before* I learned about masking, which can actually be a hindrance to diagnosis - unless I push the issue with psychiatrists/psychologists (none of whom have been well-versed in ASD), my concerns are dismissed. I guess THAT is why I am considering a formal dx now - I want someone that knows about Autism to listen to me and be like “yeah, sounds legit” since it’s been explained away by other things. I have already been diagnosed with OCD, ARFID (eating disorder often associated with ASD), sensory processing disorder, anxiety/depression, complex PTSD and…a few other things I can’t think of but that are often comorbid with ASD. I’m also interested in doing an IQ test, and being evaluated for dyscalculia, which is another suspected-but-not-tested diagnosis from a tutor that would explain so many of my difficulties. It more curiosity though - I’m already on disability for a physical illness, and to fill my days volunteer at church doing stuff that totally fits my skill set.

[@peterwynn2169]

After my mother refused point blank to accept my autism diagnosis, my sister-in-law, who is a mental health nurse, with kids, sat down with my mother (this was after she'd known me a while and had seen me have a meltdown), and said, "Peter is as classic a case of what used to be called Asperger's Autism as you'll meet. Right down to the quirks. And anybody who knows anything about autism will tell you that in five minutes." She told me that she works with a psychiatrist who is autistic, too. I don't know whether she'd reached that conclusion herself, or whether she checked with colleagues, but it has made life a lot easier.

[@PlumpnDreamyWalrus]

It's valid, full stop. I didn't have the privelege of being diagnosed young. I grew up wondering what was wrong with me and it nearly caused me to take my life. When people laugh at me for being self-diagnosed, it makes me angry beyond description. How dare people who got to grow up knowing they're not broken, while I worked to find all my own answers due to misogyny in the medical field, look down on me for using the only tools available to me for understanding myself.

[@thenobleone-3384]

I discovered mine right after I finished high school. I diagnosed myself I looked up the symptoms and I have all of it. It doesn't bother me to be different

[@benebluesman]

I approached my doc a few months ago about possible adult ADHD after my kid was diagnosed. Started suspecting ASD for both of us as well. It was people like you sharing their symptoms which helped me identify mine. I'm pursuing a diagnosis to validate my suspicions but at this point figure I will benefit from yours and others tips either way. Thanks for your videos, it's comforting to hear someone else talk about overcoming/adapting to the struggles I have been wrestling with.

[@michaelfreydberg4619]

I’ve watched a fair amount of these videos since November. I’m very glad I found these. I don’t see myself seeking a formal diagnosis, but, so far I’ve been able to relate to half or more of the things mentioned in any given video. Even the few videos where I look at the title and think “well that’s not really me” (the topic), I still see things that are relevant. If anything, I’m grateful that there’s someone out there to explain how my own brain works. For now I consider that a win.

[@billiemike100]

Hey Paul Thank you for your videos, it’s really helping me to figure myself out. I’m a 37 year old man and I’ve always tried to figure out why I was different and wat was wrong with me and am I the only one of my kind on this planet. You have really explained so much and I’ve watched other videos besides yours and this really feels like it sits with me. I’ve come to other conclusions but they always left me unfulfilled. Understanding autism really feels like my brain finally got to sit back and fan it’s self saying “finally” 😊 I did a personality test with whole food and it said I was an INFJ and that was my first discovery of being able to Finally explain myself to others. It really helped me feel I wasn’t alone in the world and from there I went into spirituality with empaths and light workers witch helped a lot also. Still though I wasn’t satisfied and knew there had to be more. Thank you so much Paul, you have really helped push my life forward. Sorry for the long message. ~ Michael Patrick PS. You look like you could be my twin 😄😄 I have to keep adjusting my eyes cause I kept seeing my face with your voice, it’s very trippy

[@jsmith317]

This helped so much. It was difficult to share my suspicions with loved ones who really know nothing about autism. They dismissed it because of no official diagnosis and lack of knowledge. I'm just known as "the one that's a little different." :) So, thanks for the "validation."

[@yashawngray9289]

A person with cancer still has cancer even if the doctor has never told that person that they have cancer. Doctors are called doctors in practice because they're always in the state of practice, and never at a Mastery level......... a diagnosis is a confirmation, confirmation is only needed when you are seeking to treat through the system, and by way of the insurance companies. ( which is the true reason why medications are controlled- it keeps you within the system) If you are autistic, and you can tell that you're autistic, you do not need another man to tell you what you already are.......... a person who is autistic will still be autistic with or without a doctor's approval.

[@MrDougfunny7]

I want a diagnosis because I want my personal and inner struggles to feel less like a personal failure…

[@purpleboye_]

After everything I've been through, even if there's a chance a doctor could tell me I'm neurotypical, it's still easier to say I'm autistic than to say I have *"significant autistic traits". As it stands I have no reason to pay hundreds to some guy to tell me what I already know.

[@Space_Potat]

@Purpleboye_ ohmygod! You here?! 👀 And yes, if I understood you right, I agree completely

[@no_peace]

I think the thing a lot of people are missing, maybe because in general we tend to be more trusting, is that people can lie about being diagnosed, and people can be misdiagnosed. So all the things people are concerned about--that self-diagnosed people could misrepresent us, or they might take up space or resources that should go to us, or whatever it might be (?)--would persist even if we could somehow get rid of self-diagnosis. Which we shouldn't. We don't get a bunch of free money, we don't get prestige, in general we don't get much of anything that would unfairly benefit a neurotypical person pretending to be autistic. The only thing I see being accomplished by people's demand for documentation is that autistic people are being harmed and excluded Anyway lol. Totally agree with you

[@thesavantart8480]

When my girlfriend got diagnosed with autism, we all knew I definitely had autism since I am more towards the severe or low functioning form of autism. Last year I got my diagnosis and I also am a prodigious savant.

[@kimberlylynn4301]

I rarely actually cry tears but feel them streaming watching this video. Over many years I have heard from folks with autism commenting to me wondering if I'm aware that I am very obviously on the spectrum. It would help me explain myself to others, but I have two small children and I'm afraid to admit this to people with fears it could jeopardize people respecting me as a suitable parent to my kids. Unfortunately this has resulted in me just closing out most people to protect myself and my family from outside judgment. But self diagnosis has been extremely helpful for me because it has helped me find a lot resources to learn how to cope as a nursing mom of toddlers and to heal from a lot of the pain over a life time of feeling different and not understanding why. A lot of adhd material has helped me learn how to cope but autism material , especially targeted to benefit mothers, has helped me exponentially more.

[@kimberlylynn4301]

As far as a few people in my life I've mentioned this to... it either goes one of two ways. A few people didn't skip a beat and said , yes I thought you knew that I knew - I am too. The other end of that had been people telling me., no way you are not thats ridiculous you're just eccentric . But interesting to note , the latter reactions carry a tinge of anger and irritation. And I notice when I meet the latter response, I see billions of moments I have had with these people where I realize they weren't seeing me and understanding me on so many levels- and thus, these are the people I realize it's best for me to just quietly fade away from and to let them see the reality they prefer but to protect myself and my children from their ideas and influences

[@demelza32]

Validation from other people like you is worth more than a so called "medical professional" who doesn't know/care about who you are as a person, and will turn you into a "tick box" diagnosis. After visiting the Facebook page connected to this channel ( I don't usually like Facebook, but this is on a different level that I can cope with), I felt like I had arrived somewhere I have been looking for FOREVER.

[@jobkrumeich2566]

Next to my gf you're the only thing that gives me some relief and understanding while I wait for my research. Thanks a lot !

[@autitrain]

I like the "the journey begins". It's a nice way to see the life after learning you're Autistic.

[@thefluffyaj4119]

i love the autistic community so much. not only does it explain so much about me, but almost everyone understands and gets it. that feeling of "welcome to the tribe!" is so validating. no one calls me crazy, calls me a faker, or anything like that just because I'm not formally diagnosed. they believe me, they don't assume I'm just out for attention, they don't question my experiences and my words and that's so refreshing. i really think self diagnosis should be more accepted, atleast socially. I've never met a self diagnosed person that hadn't done so much research and was very serious about it. none of us are trying to trick anyone, we just want to understand ourself and have others understand us because it's been so hard to be judged by standards you can never reach. i really think people can learn so much from the autistic community. other autistic people are some of the kindest people I've ever met. even my own partner, who is formally diagnosed with autism, never questioned me and when I admitted me not being diagnosed I was met with full acceptance. as far as my partner is concerned, I'm just as autistic as them and that's such a nice thing

[@DetraDearmas]

I know I have autism. 2 of my grandsons are mid range. There psychiatrist and psychologist have never questioned where it come from and have listened carefully when I explain what the boys feel or experience since they couldn't express it. I'm still in tears from watching " how it feels. For the first time I've found someone like me!

[@dillonchristensen2273]

I was officially diagnosed with Aspergers as a sophomore in Highschool, but as an adult I have no proof and cannot get it from any school I went to because they no longer keep those records, I graduated Highschool in 2011 so I understand why they wouldn’t keep the records

[@DaveTexas]

I’m 52 and I’m just starting to realize I’m on the spectrum. All the signs have been there my entire life, starting with my pediatrician telling my mother ways to help me try to develop social skills when I wasn’t able to connect with other children. I see a psychotherapist every couple of weeks, and a year or so ago he just mentioned the idea of being on the spectrum. I dismissed it at the time. I’m now coming to terms with this. I’m planning to pursue a formal diagnosis because I already have a long-term relationship with a psychotherapist who I trust and can help me cope with whatever result I get.

[@LanaTheLion]

I have never shared this with anyone but I feel the time is right. I was bullied a lot when I was younger and as I grew up I was very vulnerable which lead to me being groomed in early adulthood. That with a lot of other trauma I belive makes it hard for me to self diagnose. Equally if I got a diagnosis what would that achieve. For now I want me to be me and understand what that is before seeking a diagnosis. My mental health isn't that bad I have a stable job as a nurse which I love. A diagnosis or not would explain wether my experiences with childhood trauma cause my behaviour or made me more suspetable to it. I am different and for what ever reson that's okay. I'm also dyslexic so that might not make alot of sense 😂

[@lrwiersum]

Self dx and absolutely certain of it. I simply say I was recently diagnosed. Talked to my psychiatrist and we agreed. At my age of 65 the screening wouldn’t make any difference. She agrees that I’m right and I KNOW I’m right. I don’t require outside validation.

[@julienelson8162]

Thank you for this discussion. I have gone through so much in an effort to deal with my “mental health,” with its myriad of diagnoses (depression, anxiety, bipolar II, etc.), where none of those boxes stuck/fit/helped. A few years ago, I started researching “mental health issues,” and gained a fair amount of information. Truth be known, nothing fit the “deep inside me” until I started learning about the autism spectrum. Like so many others, I had the false notion that autism was limited to those who didn’t fit - e.g., in early childhood, mostly characterized by the non-responsiveness seen in the most extreme cases. Was I wrong in all these things! So . . . Autism spectrum hit all of me, and I have seriously been masking all my life. When masking failed, I feel into suicidal ideation and several attempts. I am extremely relieved to find a description of “me” that fits 80% of the signs. I say relieved because I realize now (at 73 years of age) that I fit in society differently, and am, in all likelihood, on the spectrum. It is a freeing thought, because I now know that I am not “sick,” but just beautifully different. And that’s OK.

[@itzamedave6242]

So I basically went to a therapist for help with my relationship being 52 and high functioning I would have never thought of Asperger's and even my first evaluation was very hard to determine and the Dr. Finally said it's Asperger's and gave me the book by Temple Grandin PhD to read and wow it was life changing as of yesterday and 3 different Dr. I am officially AS and I'm now starting to read the complete guide to Asperger's syndrome by Tony Attwood of course your videos have been very helpful as well and I continue to get so much knowledge and understanding from watching them. Thank you.

[@baziliskyy]

i know this video is kinda old but it has really helped me feel a bit better. I was always denied professional help from my parents because they thought psychology was a hoax and a waste of money, and now in adulthood, I'm actually unable to afford appointments, and the only doctors that do run just the exam for autism only work with kids, so it feels impossible for me to get any kind of professional help right now. I've spent months now researching on the topic, talking to other people that are diagnosed / are in the process of getting diagnosed and they all accept me even if I don't know for sure. I really wish I could get a diagnosis because it would greatly help me at work and in college as I feel like being treated like I'm neurotypical is affecting me badly. I've had several mishaps in class because I don't understand properly what someone said, and I struggle to communicate afterwards, so my project ends up being different from everyone else's because somehow they all magically know some information that our professors never shared, meanwhile I follow all the instructions that were given to me and still end up wrong I've been considering self-diagnosis, but I'm very scared of being pushed away and told I'm not actually autistic until I can get a doctor, but hearing from you has given me hope and shown that I'm not alone

[@peacefindersimply5001]

I figured i was autistic(high functioning Aspergers) in about the 4th or 5th grade. It came in pair with constantly questioning everything. i was the kid that was dwelling on what consciousness is. At age 23 now, i still struggle with things. Certain things i've noticed about myself. 1. Very fearful of taking chances, including moving out on my own, and terrified of driving(still no driver license), but can ride in vehicles no problem. I have no history of car wrecks. 2. Dwell and overthink about my actions and how I look. This is normal for most people especially with introverts, the difference here is that its obsessive even around family that I have no problems with. 3. I tend to feel very in control and then randomly it feels like my sanity slips. Its more in the sense of mental breakdowns. 4. I tunnel vision on activities and interests. I struggle doing other things besides 1 or 2 hobbies. For example about 6 years was meteorology, then was a single game for 7 years, then now obsessed with anime and philosophy. 5. I very intelligent in very specific areas but in general living and social life its a struggle. Being around people feels so overwhelming, i can't keep friends because I enjoy their company for a while then feel overwhelmed and burdened over time with no clear reason that I see why. 6. I'm vulnerable to panic attacks and mental breakdowns. Once things start to get to me, they get to me quickly and gets out of hand fast. I have a feeling it has to do with how I deal with problems. I feel like i don't let things get to me, but that might just be pushing things down.

[@nancymencke503]

Later in life? You aren’t that old. Take care love your honesty thank you so much

[@roamingwyld]

thought i’d share a bit of my story as i am getting so so much out of reading other peoples’…. (thank you guys.) so hi. as of fairly recently, i’ve self-recognized that i’m autistic just as i self-recognize that i’m a human being. there’s no doubt in my heart and mind. for this very reason, amongst a few others, i haven’t thought seriously about getting a medical diagnosis for more than a second or two. i’ve been (mis-)diagnosed with this and that over the years (depression, (social)anxiety, bpd, adhd, ocd) that have never felt “right” to me and have only served to confuse and debilitate my sense of self even further…. that now that i feel on my own so incredibly sure of this one thing about myself, i feel the need to treasure it inwardly and tell nobody at all (who i know, eg. my family, friends if i ever make them, doctors), and most definitely not allow anyone else the space to make me feel so small and unsure, or unclaimed, like a sad little alien child in one’s own brain. i don’t even know what i’m saying or if it makes sense. but, it is what it is hahah. this is how i strongly feel about this right now. if anyone cares to read further (warning - it ended up being rather... lengthy)… i’ll explain how i came about the realization at age 25.... after visiting my mom in 2020(/21?) while she happened to be watching the show “love on the spectrum” it eventually brought about some oddly unexpected comments about how she has for years now been telling coworkers and such that she has 4 children, 2 of which are “high functioning” autistic/aspergers. and she told me it was my bro and i that she was referring to. weird moment. hardly knew what she was talking about at that time. after my awkward dismissal/confusion, she further told me about how various old elementary school teachers of mine would contact her letting her know just that, in case she didn’t already suspect it. (i recall hearing about this once actually as a youngin, i remember she got so defensive and even thought seriously about switching teachers, i didn’t get it, but then she’d pursue to try to train train train the “weird”/different out of me and disciplined my “selective hearing/mutism” toward those in authority. i do remember not answering my teachers whenever they tried to talk to me, but i remember not thinking it was a big deal. it was just a no-option for me and was what it was. as much as i’m sure my mumma was acting out of her own unique way of motherly love, she had very high expectations for her kids and cared greatly, greatly for all things proper and normal, esp at that time. it was a bit tough. i felt so lonely.) i gotta be honest. my first reaction and current reaction is some sort of shock or hurt or something, that she wouldn’t want to relieve me by telling me, especially after finally looking into it all extremely intensively and recognizing within myself that it couldn’t be more true. everything. all of it. although i’ve always despised labels (so i guess i can’t blame her haha), but to put it very short, it would’ve saved me years and years of “beating myself up” quite literally, for being a certain way, or not being a certain way, or whatever. it even gave me such a huge “aah.....” jaw-dropping moment for the very odd very private stims i’ve struggled and struggled to “get rid of” all my life. i legit thought i was the weirdest person in the world, privately, and that something must have gone wrong. i just have so so much more gentle patience and understanding towards myself now, and even forgiveness during certain situations. anyways, another weird moment was realizing what my grandma meant… she has always called me “her little aspie” that i never really questioned what she meant, it just became an endearing sort of every now and again nickname (my grandma is also my best friend fyi). but recently-ish, maybe 5 or so years ago i did ask what she meant and she had told me something like “oh you most definitely have aspergers dear, i sure hope you don’t mind me calling you that!” and i just remember not really thinking much of it. just simply said “hah! no i don’t. you’re funny grandma.” :) (esp after she said it was “a form of autism” and the stigma or stereotypes for that wasn’t/isn’t so accurate most times especially for females) also, we would often joke that grandma will never ‘lose her marbles’ because she’s never had them, in the most loving way of course. her personality is wild. it’s the best. but she is intelligent too and we all know it (she was a medical health professional herself), we’d never call her ‘dumb’ so to speak, just ‘crazy’, very very crazy. :) anyways. rambling on about my favourite person now. but yeah, to conclude, i won’t be stressing myself over an official diagnosis whatsoever because to me personally it’s as simple as this, i believe myself over somebody else at this point, in terms of being told who i am. (especially since i have not always been the best at providing professionals the inside information needed to properly come to a diagnosis, oops yes i take full responsibly for that.) also, very importantly... i no longer have the same self-detrimental issues that i’ve had my entire life so i don’t feel the need for treatment to be entirely honest. no more suicide attempts and empty voids, and that is all simply thanks to finding and getting to know Jesus. praise King Jesus, seriously… but that is a WHOLE OTHER STORY.

[@b3naqua]

I agree with the points about a diagnosis (whether it's made by a professional or oneself) being helpful, but existing as a catalyst towards doing the more involved work like seeking help and community.

[@Nennon]

I am 99% sure that I have Aspergers, and am trying to get a diagnosis from the doctors, but so far, they keep saying that I "seem normal" to them... It's frustrating, because I just want to understand why I'm so different to everyone else.

[@tonyfeld5403]

"I am 99% sure" That's valid for you and probably just about everyone else here!

[@teddytums8615]

I know how you feel, I'm told I'm fine and normal just because I can function fine in the world as far as work and driving. I just know better.

[@caavalca]

if you’re still looking for a formal diagnosis, i would recommend going straight to a clinical psychologist. most internal medicine doctors or everyday therapists don’t know enough about autism to diagnose it or even point you in the right direction. a clinical psychologist will definitely be able to tell you if something is up, especially if they are versed in diagnosing adults with ASD. best of luck!!

[@yuki-chan1699]

I would love to get an official diagnosis just so that my family can't say I'm crazy anymore, and sadly I slowly belive it. But I'm very dependent to the point where I can't even talk to others one on one anymore I completely silence or panic, I always need company by a family member otherwise I'm unable to be out in the public. I'm even unable to talk to my doctor I know since my earliest childhood properly without panic. Until a few years I actually masked heavily at least until I graduated school, now I'm home and no need to mask anymore and since then my family thinks I'm crazy because of my behavior I always hide. I even can remember my childhood therapist talking about me being autistic but no one ever tried to diagnose me because I was a 6-7 year girl. I seriously don't know what to do anymore or to get even help without panic 😔

[@colleend80]

First, thank you for another helpful and validating video. I am quite convinced that a formal diagnosis will be very helpful for me. People in my life do not believe my self diagnosis. I want a formal diagnosis to get the help that I need, because I feel like I am drowning 😭

[@maddiek7236]

Yes and no- I know I have autism (I really really think I do anyway- after years of research) and being told “somethings wrong” or I’m “different” my whole life this really explains it. I tried to seek a diagnosis, but they won’t evaluate me because I’m a female, and because I’m “high-functioning” or basically because I see a doctor for 15 minutes and he thinks I look fine, nothing is wrong and diagnosed me with a general developmental delay instead. Can I start telling my friends I’m on the spectrum? Or a better question is SHOULD I start telling them that? Do we know ourselves better than doctors think they know us? It all depends.

[@averageandymusic]

I have on my medical records a psychiatrist say that because I could make eye contact and I could communicate using several communication skills that I was not Autistic. Again, around a 20 minute appointment that I was talking to her about with other things. Like to me it was insulting. They didn't look through any evidence I had and it reads of ignorance and stereotyping. It took me like 19 years to get my eye contact game up and I still can't get on top of it. Though from watching videos I have learned some tips.

[@averageandymusic]

Also, I find reading between the lines so hard, I can tell at times when people are lying but not why, I have sensory issues, I often miss sarcasm, miss jokes, I come off as being rude when I joke at times, this is due to forgetting to have my face set the right way, I find it hard to deal with people's egos and I crave order. And that is just some of the things.

[@drejmer]

Something I've been thinking about allot lately is that any formal diagnosis MUST be done under the banner of deficits... One could be 100% Autistic (or any other DSM disorder for that matter!) but without the presents of deficits you officially can not be diagnosed... it's the way the mental health industry defines all "disorders" as, well, disorders! Which leaves an ENORMOUS gap (especially for those of us old enough to have missed being diagnosed as Aspergers) for those who can "cope" as falling short of the diagnostic criteria... which is to say that by definition many true autistics most likely fall outside these official criteria. So the only real option left for some to feel included is self diagnosis!

[@atricewarner5705]

So… society is evil and I have been questioning quite a few disorders that can go hand In hand such as ADHD, OSDD and Autism. I would love to get answers but I have a strong distrust and fear of doctors. Plus the American healthcare system is crappy… this is very validating and scary at the same time. Thank you. I’ve masked my whole life and also had a terrible childhood and upbringing.

[@Chappers76]

I have recently come to the conclusion that I have ASD/Aspergers and believe I have done since early childhood (I'm now 44). I identify very much with the view of a validation of myself, a formal diagnosis that proves I'm not lying or going out of my mind. I'm happy in the knowledge that I'm looking for peace of mind and not a convenient label. I was referred by my GP last month for an autism assessment and am now waiting for when I can be assessed (could be a long time under current circumstances), plus the mental health services for us in the Yorkshire & Humber region are always stretched very thin indeed.

[@jessatlife]

Many of us don’t have a choice but to self-identify, unfortunately. For example, in the US, the tests cost thousands of dollars and insurance won’t cover it. At least from my research, no insurance plan does. Then there’s access to specialists, especially ones who are up to date and aware of the differences in which autism can present based on race, age, ethnicity, gender identity, etc. Intersectionality, basically. (Side note: the fact that we’re still gendering autistic traits -and ADHD traits, too- doesn’t help. It excludes many people.) I didn’t have that kind of access, where I come from, and my hope was that I could get diagnosed here in the US, but now money is the problem. I just wanted to add that.

[@taloawalters3864]

I appreciate your comments with self diagnosis. Through my studies of special education, I can relate to the experiences by many within the autism community and going through the process of deciding whether an official diagnosis is valid. Thank you Paul :)

[@simplypositiveme]

Thank you. 😊

[@tordjarv3802]

I'm in a diagnosis limbo, I did go through an official neuro-psychiatric evaluation last summer, that focused on adhd and autism. However, while they did confirm that have features of both diagnoses they did not think they could draw a conclusion based on that investigation. So I may or may not have autism. Here is my thoughts on self-diagnosis: In many countries it is hard to get an official diagnosis, for instance, the bureaucracy can be to complicated so that you might not know how to even get an appointment for an evaluation. It can also be problematic to get an diagnosis as an adult because you might have learned to unconsciously mask some of the symptoms and therefore makes it harder for an investigator to come to a conclusion. While having an official diagonsis will grant you access to medication and therapy, which you might need to function, it can hinder you as well. For instance, here in Sweden, where I live, many employers avoid hiring people with a neuro-psychiatric diagnosis if they can. Ofcourse, it is illegal to cite such a diagnosis as a cause of dismissal except for some special occupations, such as military or police, but it is easy for an employer to find some other issue to use as a cause instead. When I told my intentions of seeking a diagnosis to my relatives most of them thought that it was a good thing, because they all thought that I have something like this. So socially my "self diagnosis" is mostly accepted by my closest peers at least. Since I have been able to go through engineering school without an official diagnosis I have decided that I will try focus on self-help and try to find ways of dealing with my problems my self and hopefully I can mask my way through job-interviews, but these options are not possible for every one and I'm glad that I can use them.

[@AbstruseDaPoet]

I have always wondered even as a teenager was i autistic. I remember as a kid being senstive to noises, not being sociable, and not understanding certain things people did. It wasnt until a few close friends hinted at me being autistic due to some of my personality quirks. I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, mood disorder, and EDD. But I always felt like it was soemthing different. I started researching autism in adults and the lightbulbs went off. It was like me readinf me in a book.

[@ashlieg8224]

Sorry long post, but here goes. So I started watching your videos a couple weeks back, led here by my boyfriend on the spectrum, all he did was share a couple videos on his page knowing I would see them and knowing I had been trying to understand relationships with someone on the spectrum, the research I was doing was confusing me because I was reading about autism from a medical standpoint as opposed to learning about it from someone on the spectrum. I enjoyed your videos from the beginning because they helped me to understand and then I watched a video about the 3 tips to dating someone on the spectrum or something like that and you said something that made me stop and I was like wait, while everything else I had seen had helped me to understand him, something you said made me think that doesn't describe him...that sounds like me. So I told him as much and he very quietly got up and left the room while I was still listening and watching knowing what was coming, and that I was about to Search autism in women, and then as I start watching the first video he sent me a link to Yo Samdy Sam, which led me to the checklist for autism in women, which led me to 2 quizzes on the checklist page, after going through the checklist I realized I could check most everything on the list, not all of it but enough that I checked out the first quiz. It said I was very likely on the broader autism cluster, and I started crying, my boyfriend came back in and the first thing I said was when did you know? Well his response was why does it matter? I said I just wanted to know and he told me since before our son was born, he is 3 and we have been together7, so I wanted to know why he didn't tell me, he seemed upset and asked why it matters, I realized a little bit later when I could collect my thoughts why he was upset. This whole time I have been telling him that his being on the spectrum didn't bother me, he was the first person I met on the spectrum, and here I was crying about finding out, and I realized it wasn't what he thought, I was crying because of the abuse I suffered and the being made fun of in my family for things they thought I could just stop that I couldn't, and then the tears turned to relief, relief that for years I thought all the things I did that I couldn't seem to control made me exactly what I was told I was, self-centered, and to find out it wasn't that was very freeing of annoying things I did, that I had just accepted as who I was. After I explained it things definitely calmed on his part, but I don't need a Dr to verify, he knows me better than myself at times, and I have always thought we were two sides of the same coin, and we really are, we seem to have opposite tendencies, which has been challenging, but now that I have these videos, things have definitely improved. He said he waited so long because he wanted to be certain he was right, and it wasn't until he saw how completely I became involved in coloring, and would color for HOURS only thinking 5 minutes had passed that he was fully able to say oh yeah she is on the spectrum too. He was pretty certain before that happened but didn't want to tell me until he was positive. I am already disabled from a car accident, the autistic tendencies I have, I have been doing since before the accident, so I know it wasn't the trauma of that, so do I really need Dr verification? Nah I have the only verification I need, like I said he knows me better than I know myself at times, and vise versa. It is nice to have an explanation I never even knew about til I met him, I am 35 years old, and it doesn't change anything about me, I always thought I was normal and I am, just my normal. Knowing just gives me an understanding, I told my dad and he read the list and agreed it explains a lot, he agrees I check off a lot, he then apologized for what he did thinking I was being argumentative or making fun of my pointing out the obvious, none of us knew, but I think he is now gonna watch your videos too, to understand himself and try not to give me a hard time for things that I have always done. So thank you. I also took the second quiz, both said I was on the spectrum.

[@angrytedtalks]

I'm 58. My daughter (25) is self identified as autistic. She also studied psychology to diploma level. She says I'm autistic, and explained why. She is right. It's all I've ever known.

[@nj8241]

I'm almost numb hearing about how many people are autism or Asperger's and were not diagnosed. I feel for a better word -sad- knowing there are many people that self-medicated or played in a role in order to deal with issues that are really hard to explain to other people I still don't understand what people are saying about autism I just know it makes me feel familiar and that scares the hell out of me. It scares me thinking; did I ignore the signs with certain relatives and was a little too condemning? Where we just blaming things on one thing when it was a whole picture that needed to be examined? Also learning people have been diagnosed with autism seems to open up a big examining world to them which probably isn't easy. I hope everyone just stops arguing about everything about who's right and who's wrong Etc on the internet and just begin to teach like you do I feel there are certain people that are going to be against anything anybody does and I hope everybody that posts about their Autism and Asperger's has a media director to go through and get the trolls out. Good morning I just had a cup of coffee

[@dandiacal]

I am a big believer in getting a professional and official diagnosis; however I live in a culture in which criticism of expertise is also valued and the medical and psychiatric community is always ever under attack for the elitism of their expertise and/or the falseness of ostensible expertise. AND those communities also engage in all sorts of misinterpretations and worse themselves (witness Autism Speaks). I see both sides on this issue, but I personally believe in getting diagnosed, at the very least psychologically evaluated. It is like getting a medical checkup in my view.

[@HannahJoy333]

m hampton, yes, I agree. There are many many complex factors that for into an autism diagnosis and it takes a medical diagnosis. I absolutely acknowledge that the diagnosis process can be really difficult, the answer is not an enormous amount self diagnosis. The answer is increasing access to medical diagnosis.

[@NothingByHalves]

After spending years self-analysing, and being ignored by general practitioners for several relatively serious issues (one of them being a severe adverse reaction to anti-depressants), plus being offered 6 weeks of CBT as a solution to help with severe complex trauma) I am totally done with having anything validated by the medical profession. When I realised that all my trauma issues were resolved and I was STILL struggling, I took the online AQ and EQ test and finally the problem was solved. I've decided not to go for formal diagnosis to be told by someone else what "disorder" I have, as there is nothing actually wrong with me. I'm autistic. This is the way my brain works and when it's given the right environment, it works brilliantly. I refuse to justify, or validate, or explain any more, and if others disbelieve my self-diagnosis then that is their problem, not mine. More than happy to send them the links if they want to understand more. I would love to connect with more Aspies in real life (and my longest term friends are introverts or on the spectrum, whether they know it or not) and the universe just seems to keep bringing me more. Channels like this one and Sarah Hendrickx are not only so useful in helping me to navigate the challenges of the Aspie life, improve my communication, create some form of organisation and structure, and limit burnout, but they are also filled with comments from people who have the same experience as me. That's all the validation I need. Thank you Paul, for drawing such a wonderful crowd 🙏✨🦄