I haven’t been diagnosed with autism. If this question comes across as entitled or ableist, I offer my sincere apology in advance.

My wife thinks I’m autistic. Occasionally I wonder myself.

What is involved in getting a diagnosis?

If a diagnosis is acquired, what is the benefit? AFAIK there is no treatment, right? In fact, based on my reading on Lemmy, there may be downsides to being officially recognized (not due to the individual but due to the responses, especially by bureaucracy).

If I am, the only downside in my life has been being shunned and referred to as weird. Maybe being unsure of how to respond to the loss of those close to me. My career has been excellent because of things related to my apparently unusual personality.

Should I pursue this?

  • Auster@lemm.ee
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    12 days ago

    If you are indeed autistic and it is a problem in your daily life, knowing what is the problem is the first step to dealing with it, I think. You could even find strategies to turn hindering aspects of the condition into strengths, by knowing where your issues may stem from. And on the bureaucratic part of diagnosis, sadly I can’t comment as I don’t have much experience with that part.

    • interpolate@lemm.eeOP
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      12 days ago

      Fair enough, thank you. Whatever form of neurodivergence I have, I am fortunate that it does not regularly cause problems. I appreciate the answer!