Receiving an adult autism diagnosis can be a profoundly validating experience, offering clarity and understanding about oneself. However, it’s also common for newly diagnosed autistic adults to grapple with a challenging feeling: imposter syndrome. This is the nagging doubt that questions the validity of your diagnosis, making you wonder if you are “really” autistic or “autistic enough”. You might worry that a mistake has been made, or fear being seen as a fraud.
What is Imposter Syndrome in Autistic Adults?
Imposter syndrome in this context is characterized by persistent self-doubt about your autism diagnosis. It’s the feeling that you’re somehow not “authentically” autistic, or that you don’t deserve the diagnosis. These feelings are often unfounded and stem from internal pressures and misunderstandings about the spectrum itself. Many autistic individuals experience this at some point after diagnosis, regardless of how clear or well-evidenced their diagnostic journey was.
Why Does Imposter Syndrome Occur After Autism Diagnosis?
Several factors contribute to imposter syndrome in autistic adults. Comparing yourself to other autistic individuals is a common trigger. It’s crucial to remember that autism is a spectrum, and every autistic person experiences it uniquely. Internalized ableism also plays a significant role, where societal stigma against disability can lead you to believe you are “broken” and doubt that autism can truly explain your experiences. This can make you feel undeserving of the diagnosis and the self-understanding it brings.
Furthermore, masking significantly fuels imposter syndrome. Autistic masking, especially for those diagnosed later in life, is a deeply ingrained survival strategy. It involves suppressing your autistic traits to fit in and meet societal expectations. If you’ve masked for years, even decades, it can become difficult to recognize and accept your authentic autistic self. Masking can create a disconnect, making you question if the “real you” is autistic, or if you’ve somehow fabricated or exaggerated your traits.
Moving Beyond Imposter Syndrome: Embracing Your Autistic Identity
If you’re experiencing imposter syndrome after your autism diagnosis, know that you are not alone. It’s a very common experience within the autistic community. It’s important to remember that your diagnosis is valid, and your experiences are real. You don’t need to prove your autism to anyone. You are “autistic enough” simply by being you.
Allow yourself time to explore and understand your autistic identity without the pressure of self-doubt. Learning about autistic masking and its impact on your life can be particularly helpful in dismantling imposter syndrome. Recognizing the energy and effort you’ve put into masking can validate your experiences and pave the way for self-acceptance. Embrace your unique autistic self – you are welcome and valued, exactly as you are.
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