Diagnosed with autism today! Looking for recommendations for further reading, etc.

Hi. I'm a male, 44, father of two daughters, and married. I pursued diagnosis shortly after I turned 40, and here we are, four years later, and today I was informed that I hit all the criteria for ASD level 1.

I feel relieved that what I long felt is finally confirmed, although there's still a scintilla of doubt that perhaps I 'gamified' the process by knowing what the specialists needed to hear. Is this normal? To be honest I am still processing the diagnosis, and don't really feel much else yet despite putting so much effort to get to this point over the past few years. But this may be due to my alexithymia, and being unable to register what emotions I am currently feeling.

I look forward to reading my report when it is sent to me in the next week or so. In the meantime I am looking for more information. I have seen the usual stuff on YouTube, which frankly I find of limited use - it seems to be either women, or immature men giving their views - but I have yet to settle on which books to read from the plethora available for newly diagnosed adults. Any suggestions for books, etc. that could be helpful from this community?

Parents
  • Can you tell me why you pursued diagnosis? I am puzzled. I agree with NAS94154 that we probably are all neurodivergent.. I have displayed neurodivergent characteristics since 1946,; long before Autism was 'invented'. I have have a little to regret over successive years, and have only though about contacting other neurodivergent individuals on reaching an age when loneliness may become an issue.

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  • Can you tell me why you pursued diagnosis? I am puzzled. I agree with NAS94154 that we probably are all neurodivergent.. I have displayed neurodivergent characteristics since 1946,; long before Autism was 'invented'. I have have a little to regret over successive years, and have only though about contacting other neurodivergent individuals on reaching an age when loneliness may become an issue.

Children