My Friend Called Me Autistic Neurodivergent What Should I Do

Hey guys! So, a friend recently called me autistic and neurodivergent, and I'm feeling a bit confused and unsure about what to do. It's totally normal to feel this way when you're faced with new information about yourself, especially when it involves potentially significant aspects of your identity. Let's break this down and figure out how to navigate this situation. First, it's essential to understand what these terms mean. Then, we'll explore how to process this information, how to have a conversation with your friend, and where to go for further support. Remember, it's okay to feel a mix of emotions, and you're not alone in this journey. It's crucial to approach this situation with an open mind and a willingness to learn more about yourself and neurodiversity. This can be a pivotal moment for self-discovery and growth, regardless of whether the label fits or not. Understanding the terms is a great first step. Let's dive into what "autistic" and "neurodivergent" actually mean, and how they relate to each other. Many people find it helpful to research and gather information before making any decisions about how to identify or what steps to take next.

Understanding the Terms: Autistic and Neurodivergent

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of what autism and neurodivergence actually mean. It’s super important to have a solid grasp on these terms before you can really process what your friend said and how it might apply to you. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t try to fix a car without knowing the difference between a spark plug and a carburetor, right? Same goes for understanding yourself! Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person interacts with the world. The "spectrum" part means that it presents differently in everyone. There isn’t one single way to be autistic. Some common traits associated with autism include differences in social communication and interaction, and repetitive behaviors or interests. This can manifest in a variety of ways, such as finding it challenging to understand social cues, having intense interests in specific topics, or experiencing sensory sensitivities. It’s worth noting that these traits exist on a spectrum, meaning some individuals might experience them more intensely than others. It's also important to remember that autism is not an illness or a disease. It's a different way of experiencing the world, and autistic individuals have unique strengths and perspectives. Now, let's talk about neurodiversity. This term refers to the natural variation in human brain function and behavioral traits. It's the idea that neurological differences like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others are normal variations, rather than deficits. Think of it like biodiversity in nature – a variety of different ways of being human is what makes our society vibrant and interesting. Neurodivergent is the adjective form, describing individuals whose brain functions differ from what is considered "neurologically typical." If someone is autistic, they are neurodivergent, but not everyone who is neurodivergent is autistic. Other examples of neurodivergences include ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette's Syndrome, and more. So, when your friend called you autistic and neurodivergent, they were suggesting that you might have a neurological profile that differs from the norm, specifically one that aligns with autism. This could be a big deal, and it's understandable if you're feeling a bit overwhelmed. The important thing is to remember that these are just labels, and they don't define you as a person. The next step is to really think about what this might mean for you, and that starts with some serious self-reflection.

Reflecting on Yourself and Considering the Possibility

Okay, now that we’ve got a handle on the definitions, let’s dive into the really personal part: reflecting on yourself. This is where you put on your detective hat and start exploring your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It’s kind of like looking through a scrapbook of your life, but instead of photos, you’re looking for patterns and experiences that might align with the descriptions of autism and neurodivergence. Start by thinking about the traits associated with autism. Do any of them resonate with you? Maybe you've always felt a bit different in social situations, like you're missing a social rulebook that everyone else seems to have. Perhaps you have intense interests that you could talk about for hours, or you find comfort in routines and predictability. Sensory sensitivities are another common trait – things like bright lights, loud noises, or certain textures might feel overwhelming to you. Remember, everyone experiences these things to some extent, but for autistic individuals, they can be more pronounced and impactful. It's also helpful to think about your life experiences. Have you ever been told that you're “too sensitive” or “too literal”? Have you struggled to make friends or maintain relationships? Did you find certain aspects of school or work particularly challenging? These kinds of experiences can be clues that might point towards neurodivergence. But here’s the thing: self-reflection isn’t about diagnosing yourself. It’s about gathering information and understanding yourself better. Think of it as collecting puzzle pieces. Each piece is a different aspect of your personality, your experiences, and your way of interacting with the world. Some pieces might fit neatly into the autism or neurodivergence puzzle, while others might not. And that’s totally okay. The goal here is to get a clearer picture of who you are, regardless of whether or not you identify as autistic or neurodivergent. It's also crucial to be kind to yourself during this process. It's easy to fall into the trap of self-doubt or feel like you're overthinking things. But remember, there's no right or wrong way to feel. Allow yourself to explore these possibilities without judgment. This is your journey, and you get to set the pace. Now, once you’ve spent some time reflecting, you might be wondering what to do next. Talking to your friend who brought this up is a great step, but it's essential to approach that conversation with an open mind and a clear intention.

Talking to Your Friend: Open Communication

Okay, so you’ve done some soul-searching and you’re starting to get a better handle on things. Awesome! Now comes the next big step: talking to your friend. This can feel a bit daunting, but it’s a crucial part of the process. Remember, your friend brought this up for a reason, and having an open and honest conversation can help you both understand each other better. Think of it as a fact-finding mission, not an interrogation! Start by choosing the right time and place. You want to have this conversation when you both have time to talk without distractions, and in a setting where you feel comfortable and safe. Maybe it’s over coffee, during a walk, or even a video call if you can’t meet in person. The key is to create a space where you can both be yourselves and speak openly. When you start the conversation, be clear about your intentions. You might say something like, “Hey, I’ve been thinking a lot about what you said about me being autistic and neurodivergent, and I wanted to talk to you about it.” This sets the tone for a thoughtful discussion. Next, ask your friend why they think you might be autistic or neurodivergent. What specific behaviors or traits did they notice? This isn’t about blaming or arguing, it’s about understanding their perspective. Listen carefully to what they have to say, and try to see things from their point of view. They might have noticed patterns or behaviors that you haven't been aware of yourself. It’s also important to share your own thoughts and feelings. Let your friend know how you’re feeling – whether you’re confused, curious, overwhelmed, or anything else. This is a vulnerable conversation, and being honest about your emotions can help build trust and understanding. You might say something like, “I’m feeling a bit confused because I don’t know much about autism, but I’m also curious to learn more.” It's also totally okay to disagree with your friend’s assessment. Maybe you don’t think the label fits, or maybe you need more time to process it. You can say something like, “I appreciate you bringing this up, but I’m not sure I see it the same way. I need some time to think about it.” The point is to have an open and respectful exchange of ideas. Talking to your friend is just one piece of the puzzle. It's also a great idea to seek out other resources and perspectives to help you gain a more comprehensive understanding of autism and neurodiversity.

Seeking Information and Resources: Learn More About Autism

Alright, so you've chatted with your friend, reflected on yourself, and now you're ready to dive into the world of information and resources. This is where you become a detective, a researcher, and a knowledge seeker all rolled into one! Learning more about autism and neurodiversity is crucial, whether you ultimately identify with the labels or not. Think of it as expanding your understanding of human diversity – it's a win-win situation! The internet is a treasure trove of information, but it's also a bit of a minefield. You need to be discerning about where you get your information. Stick to reputable sources like the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), the Autism Society, and the National Autistic Society. These organizations offer evidence-based information and resources created by and for autistic individuals. Be wary of websites that promote miracle cures or negative stereotypes about autism. Remember, autism is a spectrum, and experiences vary widely. Reading personal stories and blogs by autistic individuals can be incredibly enlightening. You'll get a firsthand perspective on what it's like to live with autism, the challenges and the strengths, and the diversity of autistic experiences. This can help you understand the nuances of autism beyond the clinical definitions. Books and documentaries are also fantastic resources. Look for books written by autistic authors – they offer valuable insights into the autistic experience. Documentaries can provide a visual and emotional understanding of autism, but again, be selective and choose those that represent autism in a respectful and accurate way. Don’t just limit yourself to online resources. Consider reaching out to local autism support groups or organizations. They can provide information about local resources, support services, and opportunities to connect with other autistic individuals and their families. This can be a great way to build a community and learn from others’ experiences. Remember, learning about autism is not just about ticking off a checklist of traits. It’s about understanding a different way of experiencing the world. It's about recognizing the strengths and challenges that come with being autistic, and about celebrating neurodiversity. As you gather information, you might find that some of it resonates with you, while other parts don’t. That’s perfectly normal. The goal is to build a comprehensive understanding so you can make informed decisions about how you identify and what steps you want to take next. Now, while online resources and support groups are amazing, sometimes you need a professional opinion to help you sort through everything.

Considering Professional Assessment: When and Why

Okay, you’ve done your research, talked to your friend, and you’re starting to get a clearer picture. But maybe you’re still feeling uncertain, and that’s totally okay! This is where considering a professional assessment comes into play. Think of it like this: you've gathered all the clues, but now you need a detective to help you put the pieces together. A professional assessment can provide clarity and validation, and it can also open doors to support and resources if needed. But when is the right time to consider an assessment? And why is it so important? If you’re feeling a significant impact on your daily life, that's a big indicator. Are you struggling with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, or other challenges that are affecting your relationships, work, or overall well-being? An assessment can help identify the root causes of these difficulties and provide strategies for managing them. If you're experiencing persistent feelings of being different or misunderstood, an assessment can provide answers and validation. It can help you understand why you feel the way you do and connect you with a community of people who share similar experiences. Maybe you’ve read about autism and neurodiversity and you strongly identify with the descriptions. Or maybe you’re still unsure, but you want a professional opinion to help you sort through your feelings. An assessment can provide that objective perspective and help you make sense of your experiences. The assessment process typically involves a series of interviews, questionnaires, and observations. A qualified professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or developmental pediatrician, will gather information about your developmental history, social interactions, communication style, and any specific challenges you’re facing. This process can feel a bit like a deep dive into your life, but it’s all designed to get a comprehensive understanding of who you are and how your brain works. It’s also important to remember that an assessment is not just about getting a diagnosis. It’s about gaining insights into your strengths and challenges, and about developing strategies for living your best life. A diagnosis can be a powerful tool for self-understanding, but it’s not the only outcome. Even if you don’t receive a diagnosis of autism, the assessment process can still provide valuable information about your unique needs and how to meet them. Finding the right professional is crucial. Look for someone who has experience in diagnosing autism in adults, and who takes a neurodiversity-affirming approach. This means they understand that autism is a natural variation of human neurology, not a deficit or disorder. They should also be respectful of your experiences and perspectives, and involve you in the assessment process every step of the way. Deciding to pursue an assessment is a personal decision, and it’s not right for everyone. But if you’re feeling uncertain or struggling, it can be a valuable step towards self-discovery and empowerment.

Embracing Self-Discovery: Your Journey, Your Pace

So, you've journeyed through a lot here – from understanding the terms autism and neurodivergence, to reflecting on yourself, talking to your friend, seeking information, and considering professional assessment. Now comes the most important part: embracing self-discovery. This is where you take everything you've learned and start to integrate it into your understanding of yourself. Think of it as putting together a mosaic – each piece represents a different aspect of your identity, and you get to decide how they all fit together. This is your journey, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you ultimately identify as autistic, neurodivergent, or neither, the process of self-reflection and learning about neurodiversity can be incredibly valuable. It's about understanding yourself better, recognizing your strengths, and finding ways to navigate challenges. One of the most important things to remember is that labels are just that – labels. They don't define you as a person. They're simply tools that can help you understand yourself and connect with others who share similar experiences. If you find that the label