4 months Post Diagnosis - Confusion, identity crisis

Hi all,

I was diagnosed with ASD in April 2026, at the age of 39. In 2024, family were discussing how this is picked up in schools early on. I then went to research traits and symptoms. I had nearly every one.

The first few months were a relief, but now 4 months on, I am feeling a bit confused, as to who am I, when I try to mask, I feel like I am being fake, I know I’m autistic, it’s almost like an imposters syndrome. I don’t know who I am anymore. Like an identity crisis. If I try an be confident, then I think I’m acting again that’s not the real me. Is this normal is the first few months? I have started the gym, healthy eating, losing weight, almost at my ideal weight. But I am still not feeling happy or comfortable with myself.

What helped everyone?

Thank you

Parents
  • Another one recently diagnosed. I expected my diagnosis to rid me of imposter syndrome, but it didn't - I just ended up thinking that maybe the assessor got it wrong. I had my first business appointment yesterday since diagnosis and spent the whole time observing my mask, which felt too loud and exciteable. I have no idea whether I was usually like that for such occasions or whether my masking has gone haywire since diagnosis. Either way, I have the feeling I'm am an unexpected journey to rediscovering how to behave with other people, even freinds. 

  • Congratulations on your diagnosis, I’m struggling a lot with this too.

Reply Children
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