Why Get an Adult Diagnosis of Autism? Because Acceptance Starts With Ourselves by Carrie Watts

Career
5 years ago

Why Get an Adult Diagnosis of Autism? Because Acceptance Starts With Ourselves

Today was a big day for me. I started a new job. I’m lucky – my work career has been steady, varied and (for the most part) interesting. But I realized some time ago that, the older I get, the more mentally and emotionally difficult it is for me to be in a work environment.

After my third mental break two years ago, leading to six months of medical leave, I realized I had to get to the bottom of why it’s so stressful. It was then that I finally sought an adult diagnosis of autism. Doing so isn’t a quick thing; it took 18 months before I finally reached assessment, and that process was eight weeks long. But at the end of it, I was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome.

I started to cry. Not because I was sad or upset, but for the first time ever I felt like someone had finally seen and heard me, then told me I’m perfect just as I am. I’m not weird or a freak or broken. I am autistic. Different, not less.

The confidence it’s given me, the self-understanding, the forgiveness I can now allow myself for the social confusion and awkwardness – it’s life changing. I accept myself. 

And today I started a new job. As me.

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Elisa Schmitz
What an unbelievable road it has been for you. I'm so happy you know more about yourself and accept yourself as you are. You are so right - it starts from within. Good luck on your new job. We are very excited for you. And, so happy to have you as part of our tribe, Carrie Watts ! xoxo
Donna John
Thank you for sharing such an honest, personal story with us, Carrie Watts . You are an inspiration.
Mindy Hudon, M.S., CCC-SLP
Thank you Carrie Wells for your honest personal story. My own son at 18 had the same question and went and received and evaluation. He was not diagnosed with ASD, but the evaluation led to a better understanding of himself, which has helped him a lot.
Carrie Watts
Thank you, Mindy Hudon, M.S., CCC-SLP ! The goal of any assessment should be better personal understanding, so the individual can walk away with better strategies for managing life. I'm glad your son found something to help him.

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