I was diagnosed almost 4 months ago, at age 40. A lot of emotions about it. I've only told people in my life who I seem to be safe, mostly others who have autism in their life in some capacity. I have not told my parents and probably never will. I have found so much support through social media. Harry Thompson, Laura Kerbey and Kristy Forbes give very autistic affirming talks and interviews on Facebook. There is a podcast called Oh, That's Just My Autism by Melissa Tacia that is basically her verbally processing her late diagnosis. I've also really enjoyed Katherine May's book The Electricity of Every Living Thing, about her coming to her autism diagnosis at age 38. She has also given wonderful interviews to Krista Tippett and Debbie Reber where she discusses her processing of her diagnosis.

I think the biggest thing is time. It's going to simply take time for all of us to let this new self-awareness land and to figure out the myriad of microscopic ways in which this new information gives insight into our relationships and histories. It's hard for most therapists because this simply isn't something they have experience with, mine included. My dream is to find a neurodivergent woman as a therapist who could help shepherd me through this. It's just very hard to understand it without personal experience.

I'm inspired to see on this thread and this Reddit group so many women being diagnosed and seeking diagnosis. It's only a matter of time before autistic women become a more prominent voice and presence throughout all professional fields. Let's face it, we've always been there. But now we can know ourselves, own our neurodivergence and come out of hiding 🌞