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r/AutisticWithADHD • … • u/Maladaptive_Ace

I'm skeptical of my diagnosis

I recently went through a lengthy assessment process (several weeks & appointments) at the suggestion of my therapist. I'm 44 years old AFAB. They diagnosed me with ASD Level 1 and ADHD. They sent extensive reports explaining the diagnostic criteria and why I met them... I understand we are still learning about these things, and a lot of people have found great comfort and understanding from their diagnosis and community...... but I don't know if I buy it for me.

For example, I've never thought of myself of someone who is sensitive to stimuli. I don't mind loud noises. I like bars and concerts and crowds. I do tend to drink a lot at those kinds of events and maybe that's a kind of coping mechanism, but I don't think drinking in crowded places is... pathological? It feels typical.

They asked me about other "sensitivities" and I mentioned that I am interested in smells. I am into wine and I like discussing tasting notes; I also went through a phase of being interested in the perfume world because I like talking about scents (it's funny how difficult it is to describe scents) but again, it's just an interest. I feel like that interest being assessed as an autism sensitivity might be a bit of a reach?

I don't relate to many of the threads on this sub. I have been previously diagnosed with depression and binge eating disorder which can also be understood through the lens of AudHD (is it depression or burnout? Is it an eating disorder or stimming behaviour?) but sometimes I feel, even though I have problems with intimacy and have never been in a longterm relationship, that I'm just.... too normal for this diagnosis? I don't struggle with daily life that much. I have a high-earning career and own my own home and car. Am I just good at masking?

Maybe I have a lot of learn still. Maybe I'm resisting thinking of myself as "disabled". But what if I was misdiagnosed and I'm just a weirdo who likes to drink at parties? Is there even a difference?

Sorry if this hits some nerves for people, and I very much support and celebrate everyone in this community who has found peace and answers in their diagnosis, but so far, it just... doesn't feel like a fit for me.

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