getting diagnosed with autism at 23 was the best thing that had happened to me in many many years and sure would have been nice if it was something I could have considered on my own
Also damn I wonder if there are race or gender disparities in autism diagnosis. Probably Not Fortunately
I never really claimed it but just assumed I was autistic for several years. I confirmed it by association when my kid got diagnosed recently. The whole time I was reading the evaluation for my kid I felt like it could have easily been one of me at the same age.
I don't really see how I'd benefit from a real diagnosis. Even if I'd gotten one as a kid I don't think it would've helped all that much given the time period. I'm a lot more hopeful for me kid since there's a lot more understanding and meaningful assistance for it these days.