Published on 12, July, 2020
I was talking to someone the other day as they haven't sought after a diagnosis for ASD as they didn't want to regret it later (as they thought an official diagnosis could limit their opportunities after university), and it got me thinking. I did not consider any of the potential issues after getting an official diagnosis, I just wanted some answers. Unlike them, I have had various mental health issues, and I've tried therapy many times to no avail. Obviously some mental health issues can be co-morbid of ASD and with how I am socially it should have been investigated when I was much younger. It wasn't until I was in my early 20's, fed up of wondering why therapy didn't seem to work for me but wanted to be "normal" I started to consider that I may be autistic. So I went after a diagnosis, which has allowed me to give up notion that one day I can be "normal" if I try hard enough, and I am okay with being different now (after getting over post diagnosis grief). So for me the diagnosis was worth potentially limiting my opportunities (even though I'm 99% sure it won't as my interests and ambitions are not effected as far as I know).
I was wondering what everyone else's experiences or opinions on the matter are?
No, no regrets. Being diagnosed was overwhelmingly positive for me. As there is no requirement to disclose a diagnosis to anyone, I don't see how it can act as a limit on future prospects. Obviously being autistic can, and sometimes does, impose limitations, but a diagnosis? No.
I didn't ask them to expand on their belief that it would hinder them, perhaps I should have as it could have made a interesting conversation
I am glad the experience has been positive, and hasn't been a hinderance.