Diagnosed age 70 having previously been told I was bi-polar which never felt right. I sometimes wonder if 'professionals' put you in a box for their own benefit rather than perhaps admit they don't know. I have struggled all my life and easily identify with many of the symptoms and life stories. Knowing helps but it was not knowing that probably made me relatively successful in life. The diagnosis feels trendy and rather uncomfortable. Previously I just got on with things in spite of, I don't like to admit autism because it just sounds like an excuse, to me let alone anyone else. A personal crisis first mooted the suggestion and lead me to further investigate.
I feel my intelligence, awareness and experience should be enough to let me override autism. It can do a bit sometimes but it doesn't help me socialise, exist without planning and routine, tolerate the smell of the perfume and make up counters that always come first in department stores or avoid the isolating recovery period after an awkward event which makes it look like I am being 'controlling' rather than simply gathering my composure.
I can not see any benefits from the condition. I'd much rather be without it.
