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Autism spectrum test adult2/29/2024 ![]() ![]() The formal diagnosis process can be lengthy, costly, and emotionally straining. Many organizations or government assistance programs, such as vocational rehabilitation, require an official diagnosis to receive services. Many of us suffer impostor syndrome, especially after being told our entire lives that we’re "lazy", "a little awkward", or "difficult", rather than having their disability affirmed and accommodated for. Getting a diagnosis can provide you with relief and affirmation, and additionally provide concrete evidence to others of your specific needs. Additionally, you may be referred to different therapists and providers who work specifically with Autistic adults and addressing their needs.įor many, it's relieving to have a professional diagnosis of autism. Having all this information about yourself and how being on the spectrum affects you can be informative and useful. Many of the professionals who provide you with a diagnosis will give you a written and verbal report after you complete the process. More information about accommodations and discrimination can be found in our “Self-Advocate Guide". Additionally, if you’re being discriminated against at work for disability related reasons, a formal diagnosis allows you to protect yourself, report your employer and take legal action. Having an official diagnosis can allow you to get accommodations at work or school, like extended time for testing, visual or written supports, a note taker, etc. However, there are benefits to getting a diagnosis, including: However, there are some unique situations in which a diagnosis of autism may lead to discrimination - It might affect judicial proceedings (including getting custody of a child), prevent you from doing military service, affect your standing on an organ transplant list, open you up to involuntarily committment or placement into a guardianship, affect immigration to certain countries, and affect your ability to medically transition genders. These cons are very situation specific, so before getting a diagnosis, here’s a great article to read more about possible negatives that may be relevant to your unique situation. will not know of your diagnosis unless you disclose to them. Your employer, family, the government, etc. Keep in mind that a diagnosis is a medical document, and therefore protected by HIPAA. Many neurotypical providers complain about Autistics possibly mis-diagnosing themselves, but don't consider the impact of biased "professionals" mis-diagnosing or under-diagnosing autism for years.Īn official diagnosis can lead to discrimination. While times are changing, the tests sometimes fail to serve Autistic girls and women, and might have different results due to a racially biased provider. ![]() AFAB and POC individuals were often overlooked and misdiagnosed by professionals. People assigned female at birth (AFAB) and people of color (POC) might have varying results.įor years, autism was though of as being a condition only cis boys, typically cis white boys, could have. It might take several appointments with different professionals, including with a therapist/doctor to get a referral, intake with the center doing diagnosis, several testing appointments, and an appointment to get your results. Additionally, it can take several months or years to get your first appointment as some places have a long waiting list. Many places don't accept insurance, and even with insurance, many plans don't cover it. ![]() It's not uncommon to have to spend thousands of dollars to get a diagnosis. Getting a diagnosis can be extremely time-consuming and expensive. Discovering you're Autistic is relieving for people who have been without answers to something extremely life-altering and, for many, fundamental to who they are as a person. Additionally, getting a formal diagnosis can be near-impossible or have negative consequences for many adults. Many people outside of the Autistic community question why someone would "self-diagnose" themselves with Autism. While most members of Autistic Adults NYC are formally diagnosed, many of our members don't have an official diagnosis. Getting an official diagnosis an adult is extremely difficult. While some Autistics are diagnosed from a young age, some go through their entire childhood, adolescence, and even a significant part of their adult life not knowing they’re Autistic. ![]()
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