back, and now with an official diagnosis

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I had posted here a bit before, back when I was given a diagnosis that was not based on formal testing. A few weeks ago I had testing done, and as of tomorrow evening I will have had my AS diagnosis for two full weeks.

I have had mixed emotions since then, which surprises me. I wasn't sure if I would necessarily test on the spectrum-if AS had been a diagnosis available when I was a kid I know I would have. But I'm 30, and have had years to learn coping skills, how to 'blend in', how to navigate the world, etc. I've had acting lessons, therapy, even some Occupational Therapy as a child. So I wasn't sure if the results would show Asperger's or maybe PDD-NOS.

But, sure enough, I have Asperger's. It's great to finally know for sure. I have gone from being a family member of someone with autism (and also asperger's), to being someone who works with people on the spectrum, to now officially having asperger's myself.
So on conference registration forms, does that mean I get to check all three boxes? (professional, caregiver/family member, individual with ASD).

Anyone else had mixed reactions to being diagnosed?

Yes. I cope fairly well, and when I got diagnosed, it was in a 45 minute session. The doctor didn't do any tests, just asked questions. I don't even know if he's serious about me. After that my mom was...just weird. She did not want anyone to know about the diagnosis. So maybe I don't have AS after all? Or they are all kidding me around? But I do know that I have AS, because when I read the description it fits me perfectly. However these nts are making me feel like one hell of a hypochondriac...

Took me a year to adjust to the fact, even though I thought i was pretty sure and comfortable with it beforehand. It is a big thing.

To WrongPlanet!! !

Welkome to WP!

Mick

thanks everyone!

earlier today i was discussing with someone how i still have this feeling of 'is this really it after all these years'. and wondering if i told people they would look at me and think i'm making it up...because i have learned so much as far as coping skills and 'blending in'. i came up with a response to those sorts of comments..something like 'you didn't see me when i was six', or 'oh thank you because i've been working very hard', or 'i hope so, i sure paid therapists a lot of money'.