For many women, discovering they are autistic in adulthood is akin to stumbling upon a light in the darkness, an epiphany that brings newfound self-understanding. I experienced my own “lightbulb moment” in my late twenties, prompting my pursuit of an academic career in autism research. It was during this journey that my mother casually remarked, “They thought you were autistic.”
As a child, I keenly sensed my own distinctiveness. Both adults and peers observed my idiosyncrasies and my struggle to fit in. Surprisingly, autism had been suggested as a possibility to my mother but was swiftly dismissed by a child psychiatrist. I didn’t align with the conventional understanding of autism. Despite my social awkwardness, I had managed to master eye contact and express myself reasonably well.
A few years after my mother’s casual comment, I found myself reevaluating my life through the lens of a fresh diagnosis.
In recent years, researchers have delved deeper into understanding the nuances of how autism manifests differently in individuals of various sexes and genders. As their insights grow, more of us who have long felt adrift in the world are beginning to see the light of recognition.
The realization of being autistic in adulthood can have profound implications. It not only sheds light on our unique traits and experiences but also offers a sense of belonging and self-acceptance that may have eluded us for years. It serves as a reminder that the journey of self-discovery is a lifelong one, and each newfound insight is a step towards understanding and embracing our authentic selves.
