Maybe it's to do with how it happens. For me, I came to this self discovery after struggling with severe mental health problems that didn't seem to have any explanation.

Realising I'm autistic was an incredible release from self blame.

I think there's a unique journey for parents of autistic children, though. And not an easy one.

Be kind and patient with yourself.

@neamhsplach

[–] btaroli@federate.social 1 points 1 year ago

@Zumbador I find the realization of my #neurodivergence liberating in the it lifts the veil of mystery around my challenges. But there are still challenges. Now at least I might try improving that state. @TechyDad @neamhsplach @neurodivergence

[–] dpnash@mastodon.online 0 points 1 year ago (1 children)

@Zumbador @TechyDad @neamhsplach A lot of it may boil down to this:

Was #ActuallyAutistic a label chosen *by* you, as a result of accurate and compassionately-communicated information?

Or was it chosen *for* you, by people who were more interested in trying to “solve the problem” that is you, and are ultimately not motivated by acting for your own well-being?

(I spent most of my life in the second camp, and even on the best days, the term “autistic” is emotionally fraught for me.)

[–] Zumbador@mefi.social 1 points 1 year ago

@dpnash

Very true. And definitely something late realised autistic people are often not aware of.

But I meant to ask a different question, which is why people in the first group (realising they're autistic vs having been diagnosed by someone else ) sometimes have such different experiences.

@TechyDad @neamhsplach