Autism Diagnosis: A Personal Journey and Conversation Starter

Sean's autism diagnosis has empowered him to embrace his identity and advocate for open conversations about neurodiversity.

### Embracing Neurodiversity: My Journey with Autism and ADHD
* 🚂 "I like trains," but more importantly, I want to share my recent **autism diagnosis** and the importance of discussing **neurodiversity**.
* 🧠 Many people were surprised by my diagnosis, stating, "**But you're so social and communicative**," which highlights the misconception that autism only presents in **stereotypical ways**.
* 📚 Growing up, I associated autism with **non-verbal individuals** and those who needed **constant stimulation**, but the spectrum is much broader and includes **various experiences**.
* 🔍 After struggling with ADHD, I sought testing for autism out of curiosity and a desire to **understand myself better**, discovering that ADHD and autism often **overlap**.
* 💪 Receiving my autism diagnosis was a positive revelation, providing **clarity and helping me to treat myself with more kindness** as I navigate my unique cognitive processes.
* 🗣 I believe it's vital to **normalize conversations around autism**, as many individuals in creative fields may not recognize their neurodiversity due to **outdated perceptions of what autism looks like**.
* 💬 The assessment process was enlightening, and while it took time, it was ultimately a **rewarding experience that encouraged me to embrace my identity**.
* 🌟 As I move forward, I aim to foster a culture of openness about mental health and neurodiversity in the content creation community, emphasizing the **importance of self-acceptance and kindness**.

I have Autism

jacksepticeye

Autism Diagnosis and Societal Perceptions

Addresses common misconceptions about autism, particularly regarding social skills and communication.

Highlights the outdated stereotypes of autism prevalent in the 90s and early 2000s.

Explains that autism encompasses a wide spectrum of presentations.

Differentiates autism from ADHD, noting their overlap.

Initially attributed various traits to ADHD.

Got tested out of personal curiosity and a desire for self-understanding.

Reflects on past experiences of feeling like an outsider.

Learned about the overlap between ADHD and autism, leading to further testing.

Realized the correlation between autism and other conditions he experiences.

Views the diagnosis as a positive step towards self-acceptance and understanding.

Explains that the diagnosis doesn't change who he is but provides answers.

Highlights the increased self-compassion resulting from the diagnosis.

Uses the diagnosis to recontextualize past experiences, particularly in college.

Emphasizes the importance of self-kindness and addressing the lack thereof.

Encouraging Open Conversation and Normalization

Addresses potential criticism for sharing his diagnosis.

Shares how his previous ADHD announcement inspired others to seek testing.

Stresses the importance of normalizing autism and different presentations.

Expresses a desire to change the industry's mentality around mental health.

Addressing Negative Reactions and Misconceptions

Responds to negative reactions to his autism announcement.

Speculates on the prevalence of ADHD and autism among content creators.

Notes the evolving understanding and terminology surrounding autism.

Describes how his autism manifests in his daily life, particularly in social interactions.

Discusses sensory sensitivities related to smell and touch.

Autism Assessment and Personal Reflection

Discusses the challenges of getting an autism assessment.

Details the process and questions involved in his assessment.

Shares his assessment score and reflects on the experience.

Encourages others considering assessment to proceed despite apprehension.

Shares humorous reactions to his announcement.

Connects his diagnosis to his personal and professional goals for the year.

Expresses a desire to use his platform to promote positive mental health conversations.

Challenges the societal pressure to constantly strive for productivity and perfection.

Expresses a desire for self-acceptance and authenticity.