Late Diagnosed

I learned I was autistic later in life. This, unfortunately, isn’t uncommon, especially for people assigned female at birth (AFAB) and people of color (POC).

Most research is done on young white males. But, autism presents very different person to person. The stereotypes of autism come from only looking into one type of person and how their autism presents.

When autistic traits in females and people of color aren’t identified early in life, these individuals go without accommodations and support.

After learning I am autistic, I was able to start asking for these accommodations and support but it is now second nature to act “normal” and mask because that’s what I’ve done my whole life.

It’s so important to understand the traits of autism and how they present differently so that children can get support early on. Since I didn’t have this, I had to learn to accept myself and my autism.

I went 16 years not what was “wrong” with me. I now know there is nothing wrong with my brain or me because of this diagnosis. It has offered me a community and so much clarity. I hope in the future it will be easier for people AFAB and POC to be diagnosed early in age so they can get the support they need.

I recommend reading this article here to understand how late diagnosis can affect individuals.