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The original was posted on /r/autism by /u/Outrageous_Usual_111 on 2025-01-31 15:15:25+00:00.
Apologies if the title scares anyone. This post is regarding pursueing a late diagnosis in the current political climate. It is not intented to induce panic.
I'm a 40 yo female who self-diagnosed ASD a few months ago. My therapist has pointed me down the path of going through the Texas Workforce Commissions Vocational Rehab services to seek formal diagnosis, and get help with thinks like masking, finding and keeping a job, etc. I found myself in extreme burnout last year, and lost the ability to mask...which is quite the trip if you don't even know thats a thing. For the record, my brother was diagnosed ASD in the 90's, so I'm pretty sure I am too. I've also started my own business, but need to find employment while my business is growing.
Under the current administration, I am concerned about following through with a formal diagnosis, especially through a state agency. Obviously, there is the chance for support and accomodation through them. But what I am concerned about is DEI related. I understand that I may not be directly impacted by the DEI, and its probably best to not disclose ASD when filling out job applications, though my literal brain wants me to. I suppose anxiety and depression are also on the self-identification of disability, of which I have been diagnosed with.
What really concerns me is the likelihood of half of the United States being brainwashed into thinking that people with ASD are not deserving of equality and inclusion, because we are. Part of me wants to become an activist for educating neurotypicals on neurodivergents to open pathways to success, so that we can find employers who not only accomadate us, but use our traits to the best advantage. The other part of me is wondering if now is the time to pursue diagnosis, if its safe to do so through a state agency, and also...if I chose to move to another country, would this diagnosis be a hindrance?