As ASD awareness becomes more commonplace, many people are asking the question can you self diagnose autism?
In the below article we examine the prospect and provide some answers.
Self diagnosis
Increased awareness of neurodiversity is a wonderful thing.
It has led to a kinder, more empathetic society and improved interventions for those with the condition.
But what it has also done is led to many individuals questioning their own neurodiversity.
While it’s natural to seek understanding and validation for one’s experiences, it’s crucial to understand the complexities involved.
Autism basics
If you’ve visited this site before or have otherwise done your research it is likely you know the basics around autism.
With that said however it is always worth quickly going over the common characteristics associated with the condition.
Autism spectrum disorder is a condition of the brain characterised by a wide range of challenges.
These include difficulties in social communication, having repetitive behaviours, and sensory sensitivities.
What is important to note is that it is called a spectrum for a reason.
This means that each person with autism experiences a unique combination of strengths and challenges.
These variations make diagnosing autism a complicated process that involves comprehensive evaluation by qualified professionals.
Why self diagnosis is tricky
Whilst internal recognition of your own strengths, weaknesses and challenges is good for anyone.
Self-diagnosing autism can be fraught with challenges for several reasons.
Overlapping symptoms
Many of the traits associated with autism can also be present in other conditions. In addition they can simply be part of normal human variation.
It takes a trained professional to differentiate between these factors.
Autism often coexists with other conditions such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD.
Untangling this complex web requires specialised skills and experience.
Misinterpretation
People might misinterpret their personal experiences and behaviours, leading to an inaccurate self-assessment.
For example someone may feel that they struggle in social situations but to chalk that up to autism may be an oversimplification.
Autism involves a pattern of behaviours that might not be apparent without the expertise of a professional.
Personal bias
We all have personal bias whether they are conscious or unconscious.
Self-diagnosis therfore can be influenced by pre-existing biases or limited knowledge about autism.
A trained professional brings an objective perspective to the evaluation process.
Why a professional diagnosis is important
As you will see from the above, our general opinion is that speaking to a professional is advisable if you are seeking a diagnosis.
Here are some reasons why;
Accurate understanding
A qualified clinician considers a range of factors. They will conduct thorough assessments, and review developmental history to accurately diagnose autism.
Tailored interventions
An official diagnosis enables the development of tailored interventions.
So it will not be a case of just recieving a diagnosis and being waved on your way.
A formal diagnosis will then be the gateway to address an individual’s specific needs and challenges.
An official diagnosis opens doors to support services, therapy, and accommodations that can positively impact an individual’s daily life.
An opening to community
An official diagnosis can be life changing for an individual with ASD.
If you compare it to self diagnosis there is certainty where otherwise there will be always a nagging doubt.
Knowing for sure that you are autistic can facilitate connections with autism communities.
This can wind up allowing individuals to share experiences, strategies, and insights.
Who completes the diagnosis?
This will vary depending on where you are in the world.
In most areas, a diagnosis of autism is typically completed by a multidisciplinary team of professionals.
This would likely include pediatricians, psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, speech-language experts and occupational therapists.
It wouldn’t necessarily include all of the above but likely some form of a combination working together.
Their comprehensive evaluation would include clinical observations, interviews, developmental history assessments, and standardised tests.
Tests would be across domains like communication, behaviour, and sensory processing.
The joint working of these experts ensures a thorough and accurate diagnosis tailored to the individual’s needs, age, and circumstances.
Summary – Can you self diagnose autism?
While the desire to understand oneself better is natural and valid, self-diagnosing autism is a complex endeavor that should be approached with caution.
The intricate nature of autism requires a comprehensive evaluation by qualified professionals.
An official diagnosis not only brings clarity but also ensures access to appropriate support and interventions.
In our journey towards embracing neurodiversity, seeking the guidance of experts remains a very important step.
