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Advice

TheatreW1

Hello. I was diagnosed back in March. Work wanted me to get assessed and now they want me to consider telling the rest of my team. I'm not sure I want to but I don't think they like that because they want to create an inclusive working environment and they can't do that if my colleagues don't know. It should be my decision right?

  • I disclosed to my manager I was going for assessment because I had been off sick for some time with anxiety. She was supportive and did t tell any team members. It is a small team and we all get along okay. I then told her when I got my diagnosis and have since told 2 other members of the team. This has been my choice, I don’t think your manager should be pressuring you to share this very personal information. When I have told these people it has been received very well, especially as it helps explain my inability to cope with change, sometimes inability to speak, lack of eye contact. They have all been so kind and now support me when changes have to happen and let me know in advance. 

  • TheatreW1 said:
    I'm not sure I want to but I don't think they like that

    Perhaps you could explain to your supervisor that you first need time to understand and digest your diagnosis? I think that is reasonable enough.

  • Hi there!  First of all, congratulations on getting your diagnosis.  It's good to hear that your workplace supported your journey to get a diagnosis.

    As for your question, you might want to have a look at our page about deciding whether to disclose autism at work.  Though the page focuses on disclosing to employers, it can also be relevant to work colleagues as well.  It lists potential benefits and risks of disclosing your diagnosis, as well as links to reasonable adjustments you can request, if required, and what to do if you are having trouble at work.

    At the end of the day, it is absolutely your decision whether or not to disclose to others around you (whether at work or not) that you are autistic, as well as who you are comfortable with the information being shared with.

    Best wishes, and feel free to get back in touch here on the community to let us know how things progress.