Diagnosis Stories

Every person has a story. A unique part of that story for a person on the autism spectrum can be their diagnosis, and how it has changed their lives. We spoke to some autistic adults about their stories. And here’s what they had to say:

“I was diagnosed when I was in 5th grade. My mom had been noticing some “behavioral issues” with me that set me apart from the other children, so she took me to a psychologist who diagnosed me with Asperger’s Syndrome at the time. Although the experience was nerve-wracking for her, it explained to my mom why I behaved the way I did and opened her eyes. As for me, I was kinda ashamed of it when I was a child because I hated thinking I wasn’t normal, but now I understand that it’s just another part of me and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about.” – Roxana, 21

“I had selective mutism as a child and had to communicate with my parents in sign language along with multiple other symptoms. Although my parents knew that I probably had autism or some sort of developmental delay, my father convinced my mother to not get me diagnosed because he didn’t want the societal stigma that came along with it. Regardless they were still helpful while I was growing up. As I got older, I started learning more about autism, I realized I related to a lot of the symptoms, the process took a while but I finally got diagnosed when I was an adult.” – Amomymous, 22

“I actually don’t remember when I got diagnosed because I was still a toddler at the time. I didn’t find out until like 5th grade and back then I didn’t really understand what it meant. Nowadays I understand it and I’m more open and honest about it with those I trust.”- Anonymous, 22

“After my daughters got diagnosed, I realized I had a lot in common with them and decided to get screened as well. It’s helped me understand myself and connect with my daughters even more. My husband has been very supportive of the three of us, and we are now involving ourselves in local autism organizations!”- Anonymous, 30

“I was misdiagnosed with other things like social anxiety growing up. When I started to suspect I had autism, I talked to my therapist about my concerns. She said I couldn’t be autistic because I was too “talkative”. So, I just went to my primary doctor and was referred to a neuropsychologist, and he confirmed the diagnosis. I have a new therapist now.”- Anonymous, 25

Thank you to everyone who shared their stories! If you are interested in sharing your story, submit your information here.