Is It Possible to Self-Diagnose Autism

There are risks involved, such as the possibility of receiving an incorrect diagnosis, which could lead to confusing autism with other issues. Many autistic individuals embrace self-identification.

Recent studies indicate that more people are identifying as autistic through self-diagnosis than those who receive a formal diagnosis from a doctor:

Key Takeaways

• You can try to figure out if you have autism, but only a doctor can give you a real diagnosis. Many people say they are autistic because it is hard to get tested by a professional.
• Autism often means having trouble talking with others, doing things over and over, and being sensitive to sounds or lights. Some tests can help you notice signs of autism, but these tests do not prove you have it.
• Saying you have autism can help you know yourself better and feel better, especially if you cannot see a doctor. You might get it wrong if you try to diagnose yourself, because other problems can look like autism.
• Getting a real diagnosis from a doctor helps you get important help and services. Being part of groups that support you can make you feel welcome and understood, even if you do not have a diagnosis.

Autism Self-Diagnosis

Autism self-diagnosis means you see autism traits in yourself. You decide you are autistic without seeing a doctor. Many adults do this because getting a diagnosis can be hard.

You might notice your actions or feelings match what you read about autism. People often use websites and online tests to learn more about themselves.

Self-identifying can change how you think about yourself. It can also affect your mental health. Many people feel better and understand themselves more after self-diagnosing autism, especially if they cannot get professional help.

Recognizing Traits

Patterns and Challenges

You may notice patterns in your everyday life. These patterns can make socializing and talking to others hard. You may also like routines.

People who self-diagnose autism often say they have:

• Trouble talking with others or understanding body language.
• Repetitive actions and routines that make them feel safe.
• Strong reactions to sounds, lights, textures, or smells.

Here is a table showing common traits people notice when they self-diagnose autism:

You might see yourself in these examples. Many people realize these traits started when they were young, even if they never got a diagnosis.

Screening Tools

Screening tools can help you see if your experiences match autism signs. These tools do not give you a diagnosis. They just help you learn more. Some popular screening tools are:

• The M-CHAT-R/F, which has questions for parents and a follow-up talk.
• The AQ (Autism Quotient), used by adults to check for autism traits.
• CARS-2 (Childhood Autism Rating Scale), known for being accurate.
• The ABC (Autism Behavior Checklist), which is simple and cheap.

Doctors around the world use the M-CHAT-R/F. It asks parents about their child’s growth and looks for early autism signs. You can find these tools online. Remember, they are only a first step.

Autism self-diagnosis does not take the place of a doctor’s diagnosis. You cannot get official help or services without seeing a professional. Screening tools and self-identifying can help you learn about yourself, but only a specialist can say for sure if you have autism.

Why People Self-Diagnose

Many people try to self-diagnose autism. Getting a formal diagnosis is often hard. There are many things that make it tough to see a specialist. These problems help explain why self-diagnosis is common.

Barriers to Assessment

Lack of Access

It can be hard to get an autism assessment. There are several reasons for this:

• Money problems, like paying for doctors and travel.
• It is hard to find experts who work with adults.
• Women and gender-diverse people face extra challenges.
• Language and culture differences make things harder.
• Race, gender, and income can affect getting diagnosed.
• Old rules for diagnosis focus on male traits, so women and gender-diverse people may wait longer.

These problems can make you feel left out. Many adults say they cannot find someone who understands them. If you are a woman or gender-diverse, your traits may not match what doctors expect. This can mean you do not get diagnosed or get diagnosed late.

Insurance Issues

Insurance can also cause trouble. Your plan may only pay for certain tests, like the ADOS-2. These tests might not be right for you. Some plans do not allow online doctor visits. This is hard if you live far away. These rules can slow down getting help, especially for kids.

Many people face high costs and long waits for tests. Insurance does not always help. These problems make people turn to self-diagnosis to understand themselves.

Community Acceptance

Support Networks

If you say you are autistic, you may worry about fitting in. The autistic community often welcomes people who self-diagnose.

Many think self-identifying is okay and can feel freeing. About 64% of autistic people say you do not need a formal diagnosis. Half say getting an official diagnosis is not possible for them.

You can find support even without a formal diagnosis.

Here are some options:

• Free Autism Discussion & Affirmation Circles meet online every month.
• Safe spaces where everyone is treated kindly.
• Groups welcome both diagnosed and self-identified autistic people.
• You can join in ways that work best for you.
• Communities made by autistic adults help you feel included.

Many people feel better after joining these groups. You can share your story, learn from others, and make friends.

Risks of Autism Self-Diagnosis

If you try to decide if you have autism by yourself, there are some risks. You might miss things or mix up autism with other problems. Seeing a professional can help you get the right answers and support.

Misdiagnosis

Overlapping Symptoms

Many health problems look like autism. If you self-diagnose, you might mix up your signs with other issues. Here are some problems people confuse with autism:

• Shyness or social anxiety disorder can make talking hard.
• Avoidant personality disorder affects how you connect with people.
• Language-based learning disabilities make it hard to express yourself.
• Eating disorders can mean picky eating or strict habits.
• Obsessive compulsive disorder causes repeated actions.
• Mood disorders can make you want to be alone.
• Sensory processing disorder causes strong reactions to sounds or textures.
• Generalized anxiety disorder makes changes stressful.
• ADHD or ADD affects focus and organization.
• Personality disorders make relationships tough.
• Neuroticism or borderline personality disorder affect feelings.

Autism screening tests are right about 80% of the time. Sometimes, they are only right 75% or less. This means you could get the wrong answer if you self-diagnose.

Impact on Wellbeing

If you get your diagnosis wrong, you might feel confused or alone. You could miss the right kind of help. Here are ways self-diagnosis can affect you:

• You may feel alone if your story does not match what you read.
• You might not get the help you need, which can cause stress.
• You could miss other health problems that need different care.
• You may not understand yourself without a formal diagnosis.
• Doubt or imposter syndrome can hurt your self-worth and mental health.
• Self-diagnosing can feel hard, especially without support.

If you feel unsure or stressed about your signs, talking to a professional can help you find answers and feel less alone.

Lack of Services

No Formal Support

Without a formal diagnosis, you may not get the help you need. Many programs need a doctor’s note or official papers. Here are some problems you might face:

• You could miss early help, which is important for learning.
• Your life may be harder if you do not get the right support.
• Families who do not know about autism may not get help in time.
• People with less money may have more trouble finding support.

A professional diagnosis helps you get therapy, school help, and community programs. It also helps you and your family know what you need.

Autism self-diagnosis can help you learn about yourself, but it does not replace a professional’s advice. If you think you might be autistic, seeing a specialist can give you answers and support.

Self-Identification vs. Professional Diagnosis

Key Differences

Diagnostic Criteria

When you self-identify as autistic, you look for traits in yourself. You might notice you have trouble with friends or strong reactions to sounds.

Deciding if you are autistic at home is not the same as a doctor’s way. Doctors use strict rules and look for certain patterns.

• Many people who self-identify do not have a doctor’s diagnosis. This means the way you check at home is not like a doctor’s test.
• People who self-identify and those with a diagnosis often act in similar ways. But doctors focus more on restricted and repetitive behaviors. These behaviors are very important for a real diagnosis.
• Autistic traits can be mild or strong. People with a doctor’s diagnosis usually have more of these traits than people who self-identify.

You might see some autistic traits in yourself. But a doctor looks for a full pattern that matches medical rules.

Clinical Expertise

Doctors and specialists have lots of training. Their skills help make sure the diagnosis is right.

• In studies with kids, doctors and tests like the ADOS agree most of the time. This shows that doctors’ skills are important.
• A doctor’s trust in their own answer is a strong sign the diagnosis is correct.
• How strong the symptoms are, and things like self-injury, also matter to doctors.

You can use online checklists, but only a trained doctor can see the whole picture. Their experience helps stop mistakes and confusion.

Benefits of Formal Diagnosis

Access to Resources

A real diagnosis gives you help that self-identifying cannot. You can get therapy, school help, and changes at work. Schools and jobs often need a doctor’s note before they help you. Without a diagnosis, it can be hard to get what you need.

• Many people feel misunderstood or called “troublesome” when they ask for changes.
• Some people feel they must show their diagnosis to get help.
• Stigma about autism can make it harder to get support, especially without a doctor’s note.

A doctor’s note can help you get the right help and make life easier.

Validation

A real diagnosis gives you more than just services. It helps you understand yourself and feel sure about who you are.

1. You get clear answers about your life.
2. You can find therapies that fit your needs.
3. Schools can give you special help.
4. You might get money support.
5. You can join groups and meet others like you.
6. Your relationships may get better as people understand you.
7. You can plan your future with more confidence.
8. You get legal rights and help.
9. You feel stronger and accepted for who you are.

Knowing you have a real diagnosis can make you feel better and help you move forward.

What to Do If You Suspect Autism

If you think you might be autistic, you can learn more about yourself. You do not have to hurry. Take your time to think and collect facts. This can help you feel sure about what to do next.

Reflect and Research

Journaling

Try writing down your thoughts and what happens each day. Journaling helps you see patterns in how you feel and act. You might write about times you felt different from others.

You can write about when social times were confusing or too much. Write about routines or habits that help you feel safe. You can also write about strong feelings from sounds or textures.

Journaling gives you notes to look at later. It helps you sort your thoughts before you talk to someone or see a specialist.

Talking to Others

You do not have to do this by yourself. You can talk to friends, family, or people in the autistic community. This can help you learn new things.

Many people like to join online groups where autistic people share stories. You can ask questions in safe places. You can listen to autistic people and learn from what they say.

Hearing from autistic people can help you know yourself better. Listening to others who have had the same feelings can help you feel less alone.

You can also try different ways to learn more. Here is a table that shows some ways people study autism and what you can get from each:

You can use these ways to help you learn. Listening to autistic people and using tools can help you see your own life more clearly.

Seek Professional Help

Finding Specialists

If you want a formal diagnosis, you can look for doctors who know about autism. Some people who check for autism in adults are:

• Developmental Pediatricians
• Pediatric Neurologists
• Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists
• Psychologists who know about autism

You can ask your doctor to help you find a specialist. You can also look for clinics that do autism checks. Some programs, like Help Me Grow, help families and people who need support.

Preparing for Assessment

Getting ready for an assessment can help things go well. You can collect facts about your growth and health. Bring your journals or notes about your life. You can also bring school records or old reports if you have them.

The test may include direct checks. Sometimes, it takes a few hours or even a few days. After the test, you will get a report with results and advice.

Trust yourself if you see early signs of autism. Getting help early can really help. If you are a parent, you can ask your child’s school for a Child Study to see if special education is needed.

Doing these things can help you find answers and get the help you need.

Emotional Impact

When you think you might be autistic, you can feel many things. Some people feel relief because they finally know why things have been hard.

Others feel confused or worried about what will happen next. All your feelings are okay, and you are not alone.

Coping Strategies

Managing Anxiety

You might feel anxious after self-diagnosing or while waiting for answers. Anxiety can affect your body and your mind. There are ways to help yourself feel better:

• Structured routines can help you feel safe. Try to eat, sleep, and do activities at the same times each day.
• Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or gentle yoga can help you calm down.
• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help you change negative thoughts and learn new ways to cope.
• Sensory-based interventions like weighted blankets or quiet rooms can help you relax when you feel stressed.
• Emotion regulation tools such as the “Zones of Regulation” can help you notice and control your feelings.
• Distraction techniques can help during meltdowns. You can listen to music, draw, or do something you enjoy.
• Safe spaces give you a place to go when you feel overwhelmed.

Try different ways to see what helps you most. You may need to use more than one strategy, depending on how you feel.

Building Support

Getting support from others can really help. You can:

• Talk to friends or family you trust about how you feel.
• Join support groups in person or online.
• Use sensory processing techniques to help with strong reactions to sounds, lights, or textures.
• Practice social skills training to feel more comfortable with others.
• Try problem-solving strategies to handle daily problems.
• Use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools if talking is hard for you.

You may feel good when you understand yourself better. Sometimes, you might feel bad if others do not believe your self-diagnosis.

People might say things like “You don’t look autistic” or “You didn’t act that way before.” These words can hurt. Remember, your feelings and experiences are real.

Finding Community

Online Groups

The internet lets you meet others who understand what you are going through. Online forums and social media groups bring autistic people together from everywhere.

You can share your story, ask questions, and learn from others in these spaces. Many people feel like they belong and get support in these groups, especially if they feel left out in real life.

Peer-led support groups help you make friends and learn new things. Some groups focus on feelings, while others teach new skills. If you are LGBTQ+, you can find groups that understand both parts of who you are.

Sharing Experiences

When you share your story, you help yourself and others. Many people who self-identify as autistic do a lot of research. They join online groups to find people who understand them.

Telling your story can help you feel less alone and more sure of yourself. You might also help someone else who is just starting to learn about themselves.

About 64% of autistic people think you do not need a formal diagnosis to join the community. Many adults self-identify because seeing a doctor costs too much or takes too long. Your story is important, and you deserve support.

Myths and Facts

Common Misconceptions

Stereotypes

Lots of people believe wrong things about autism. Some think all autistic people act the same way. Others believe everyone with autism has the same problems.

This is not true at all. These myths can make it hard for you to know yourself. They can also stop you from getting help. Here are some common myths:

• People think only boys or men can be autistic.
• Some believe autistic people do not want friends or cannot feel emotions.
• Others say autism always looks the same in everyone.

These ideas can cause people to treat you badly. You might feel left out or not understood because of these stereotypes. Myths like these can make you feel anxious or sad, especially if you are different from what people expect.

Diversity of Experiences

Autism is not the same for everyone. You might have strong interests or need routines. Social situations might be hard for you. Someone else may have other strengths or challenges. No two autistic people are exactly the same.

• Myths can make it harder to get diagnosed, especially for women, people of color, or those with less common traits.
• You might not get help if people do not see your unique experience.

Your story matters. Autism is a spectrum, and every person’s journey is unique.

Self-Diagnosis Myths

Legitimacy

You may wonder if self-diagnosis is real or okay. Some people say only a doctor can decide if you are autistic.

But research shows self-identified autistic adults often have the same main traits as those with a formal diagnosis. Self-recognition helps many people understand themselves, especially if they cannot see a specialist.

Here is a table showing some tools and how useful they are for self-identification:

• Studies show self-reported traits often match clinical assessments.
• The ASIS scale finds similar patterns in both diagnosed and self-diagnosed people.

Self-identifying can be a good step, especially if you cannot get a formal diagnosis. Still, seeing a professional can help you get the right support.

Advocacy

Advocacy has changed how people see autism and self-diagnosis. You can find support and speak up for your needs, even without a formal diagnosis.

Talking about autism helps others understand your challenges and strengths. Advocacy groups encourage you to ask for help that fits you best.

• Advocacy helps people be open and stand up for themselves.
• Talking about autism can help you get support.
• Some people still worry about stigma or negative reactions, which can make it hard to share their diagnosis.

You have the right to know yourself and ask for help. Advocacy helps make a world where everyone’s experience is respected.

You might notice autism traits in yourself and feel better by self-identifying. But self-diagnosis has some problems.

• You could miss other health issues that need treatment. You might also think you have more autism traits than you really do.
• If you do not have a formal diagnosis, you cannot get some important help or legal rights.
  

  Getting a professional diagnosis is very important. It means doctors and other experts will check you carefully to understand autism fully.

If you think you might have autism, ask for help. You should get answers, support, and the right help for your future.

FAQ

What is autism self-diagnosis?

Autism self-diagnosis means you see autism traits in yourself. You use checklists, online tools, or read information. You decide if you might be autistic without a doctor’s help.

Can you get services with only a self-diagnosis?

You cannot get most official help with just self-diagnosis. Schools, jobs, and health programs need a doctor’s diagnosis.

Are online autism tests accurate?

Online tests can show you autism traits. They do not give you a real diagnosis. Use them as a first step, not as proof.

Why do some people choose self-diagnosis?

Some people pick self-diagnosis if they cannot see a specialist. Reasons include high costs, long waits, or not finding the right doctor.

What should you do if you think you are autistic?

Start by learning more and writing about your life. Talk to people you trust. If you can, ask a doctor for an assessment.

Is self-diagnosis accepted in the autistic community?

Many autistic groups accept people who self-diagnose. You can join support groups and share your story, even without a formal diagnosis.

You deserve support and kindness, no matter where you are in your journey.