“Explore your diagnosis and consider this a way of learning about the real version of you”
Kit was diagnosed with autism in her early twenties. Here, she explains how important it is to find your voice following your diagnosis.
“Finding your voice post diagnosis is not easy. Getting a diagnosis can be a journey in itself and once you’ve reached your destination, the journey continues, through learning to unmask as well as accepting and looking after yourself.
1. Establish the right support around you
This might be friends, family, peers or other neurodivergent people. Neurodivergent people often magnetise towards each other due to the similar social boundaries and rules. Find support groups or connect with other neurodivergent people, as these networks will help in the settling process, as you become more comfortable with your diagnosis. Seeing others around you going through similar experiences should bring comfort in your emotions.
2. Embrace yourself for who you are
A diagnosis can come with confusing feelings, especially if you’ve been prone to masking for so long. Masking is the subconscious effort of appearing neurotypical in order to being accepted. It is exhausting and can be mentally draining. It’s important to have the help and support you need through the process of unmasking. As much as positive thinking is important, it’s also important to feel all of the emotions, as this will help with the process.
3. Explore your diagnosis and what lies behind it
Consider this a way of learning about the real version of you, without barriers or walls. Researching into your diagnosis further and finding out more about what you relate to can help you to learn and understand yourself better. Sometimes a neurodivergent diagnosis becomes a special interest in itself, as you find out more about yourself. It can be freeing and fascinating, especially understanding traits not commonly associated with certain conditions.
4. Seek therapy if you need it
Talking therapies are available for free in Dorset to adults over the age of 18 via the NHS Steps2Wellbeing service. If you are struggling with your emotional or mental health and need to talk to someone at any time, day or night, you can also call Dorset’s mental health helpline Connection on 0800 652 0190, talk to the Samaritans on 116 123, or text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258.
Finding your voice brings confidence and vulnerability. Your diagnosis means some things may be more challenging. Being able to vocalise these struggles and speak up when faced with adversity is an important life skill, beyond your new-found neurodivergency.
Please look through this website to find other resources of about the different parts of being neurodivergent and support accessible to you. Every day there is progress towards more awareness and the creation of resources, as more is brought up and understood about the neurodivergent umbrella for all groups of people. This expands the network of support and brings important information to those who are finding it hard to come to terms with their inner voice and accept their diagnosis.
Remember, you are not alone and many others will be feeling the exact same. There is no need to be ashamed in who you are.”
