Thread by @mamautistic36

I have a formal ASD/autism diagnosis (not Aspergers) and I am firmly in the #SelfDxIsValid camp.

I was never self-dx. I would never have thought to look into being Autistic or seeking an evaluation except that someone who knows me VERY well & has Autistic kids suggested it.

I only had one evaluation (no "doctor shopping") and I easily easily easily got my autism diagnosis because I am THAT obviously and stereotypically Autistic.

AND it was 100% a privilege that I got that evaluation and diagnosis.

#SelfDxIsValid

Had I not presented stereotypically, possessed decent insurance (finally!) that covered my evaluation, had it suggested to me that I look into the possibility, had I not been white?

I may never have gone in for an eval in the first place or received a dx.

#SelfDxIsValid

The most I ever felt comfortable saying before official diagnosis was that I "strongly suspected" I might be Autistic based on feeling understood for the first time in my life after reading Autistic authors' writing.

BUT

#SelfDxIsValid

Because many people cannot get an official eval or even an accurate one. Those Autistic people still deserve to have community support!

Even if they're only questioning the possibility of maybe being Autistic.

Even if they end up not being Autistic!

#SelfDxIsValid

Un-dx Autistic ppl can NOT get official services or accommodations. They aren't taking anything away from anyone else except maybe time. And if that bothers you then don't spend your own time on anyone who isn't officially diagnosed.

Set boundaries for yourself!

#SelfDxIsValid

Modulate your own behavior and responses instead of policing how other people are trying to survive in a world that, for whatever reason, is unfriendly to them.

Nobody seriously looks into possibly being Autistic if they're thriving.

#SelfDxIsValid

And that's really all I have to say about self-dx for now.

I may end up doing a blog post based on this thread and if so I'll attach it here so folks can find it easily.