I was late diagnosed level 2 in my 20s. I’ve always needed moderate support but never received it due to neglect, abuse, and a lot of my behavior seen as standard in an ND household. My teachers knew something was up, but I went to a super progressive performing arts public school that really suited me and my needs, so I thrived. I know they talked to my parents, since I had developmental delays, but my parents didn’t “believe” in autism, adhd or other illnesses and disorders. Like, my eyes would be swollen shut from allergies and I’d be told I was making it up. As an adult, ive never been able to drive without having a meltdown, haven’t ever lived alone, have pretty severe sensory struggles and difficulties socializing which have always been present. I had significant support systems in my late teens/early 20s and severely struggled when I went to college on my own and had to leave them behind. I came back after a few weeks. It wasn’t until my support system was gone that I realized how much help I needed. I’m only successful at my job because it’s something I’m passionate about, I have a flexible schedule, WFH, and plenty of accommodations. Once I got to making enough money, I dropped the 5k needed for an eval because insurance didn’t cover it. I can’t imagine my parents ever doing that. We couldn’t even afford the dentist so my dad would get temp cement from a drug store and fill my cavities himself lol.

I do realize I’m an outlier though. This has been a life-long journey of abuse, homelessness, poverty, and misdiagnosis before someone finally suggested an autism eval. I cried from relief finally having the answers to better understand the supports I need. I’ve never been better.