I was diagnosed at 16. I was prompted to get diagnosed because my pdoc at the time told me I showed many signs of it but she couldn’t diagnose it and to get an assessment for it. And I read it over and realized how much of it was me and why I struggle with friendships a lot and why I do certain things. It was the answer to many of my problems. So i got diagnosed. The diagnosis is used for getting accommodations I need in University and also to access services once I locate them.

It mainly came late because I’m pretty high functioning overall and it’s only noticeable in certain ways. I don’t have life skills issues. I am quite quiet and don’t draw attention to myself. My family believed that I was just really shy and didnt like people, which is kinda true, as I have social anxiety (part of autism apparently).