If you are reading this post, it is most likely because you have heard about the process of getting diagnosed as Autistic in adulthood and want to learn more. 

It’s possible you have already self-diagnosed and are looking to take the next step. Maybe you just have questions and think a formal diagnosis process may be the way to go. 

Our aim with this post and future posts related to this topic is to clear up some of the mysteries and misconceptions so people can make a more informed decision about whether format diagnosis is right for them. 

In this post, we will be focusing on the pros and cons of seeking out an assessment, and some questions you might want to consider when deciding what the path forward looks like for you.

The question of whether to seek out an assessment can be a daunting one. It represents a significant cost, requires seeking out a specialist, and may not ultimately align with the goals and needs of every person who could potentially receive one. The good news is that the process does not happen overnight, and there is plenty of opportunity to explore and ask questions before you make any major decisions. 

So let’s start with that step of the process and think about some pros and cons that might go through your mind as you consider whether an assessment is worth pursuing.

There are many reasons why someone might choose to seek out a diagnosis, from securing necessary accommodations to self-discovery. 

It is worth noting that everyone can have different reasons for wanting diagnosis, and some of the pros listed here might not be as important or relevant to everyone who might want a diagnosis. 

The most important thing are the benefits that are relevant to you. Let’s take a look at some of the ways an individual might benefit from going through the diagnosis process.

• A better understanding of oneself and one’s own needs.

• Confirmation from an authoritative source.

• Legal recognition of a disability and the legal protections associated with it.

• A framework through which to discuss one’s needs with others.

• A way to officially close the chapter on a self-diagnosis journey.

• A way to help inform next steps in therapy.

• A way to prevent criticism from people who unfairly malign self-diagnosis.

Just as there are many reasons why seeking out a diagnosis might be worthwhile, diagnosis can also come with some negatives that must be weighed against the benefits. Much like the pros, you may not find all of these negatives to be relevant, and the most important factors worth considering are the ones that feel impactful to you. 

Let’s take a look at some potential negatives that can come with both the diagnosis process and receiving a diagnosis:

• The cost of diagnosis can often be quite expensive .

• Beyond basic legal protections to receive accommodations, there are minimal official benefits to receiving a diagnosis.

• Some people who find out you are Autistic may treat you differently.

• An official diagnosis may or may not be more meaningful than one’s own journey of self-discovery.

Ultimately, the question of whether to pursue diagnosis is a personal one that we must each answer on our own terms. 

While weighing the pros and the cons in the abstract might be a useful thought exercise, there are also some questions we can ask ourselves when considering our priorities and goals.

• Will an official diagnosis help me feel more confident in my understanding of myself?

• Do I need legal support to receive necessary accommodations that I am currently not receiving?

• Will an official diagnosis help important people in my life better understand my needs and goals?

• Can I afford an official diagnosis right now? Do I want to save up?

• Does the financial cost of official diagnosis feel worth it?

• Do I feel I need more than self-diagnosis to feel confident in my identity?

We hope this post has offered a helpful framework for considering the many reasons why you might pursue an official diagnosis and offered a starting point for making the choice that is right for you. If you would like to see more regarding adult diagnosis or share your experience then we would love to hear from you! Just drop us a line at hello@autismgrownup.com and stay tuned for more adult diagnosis resources in the future!