Do you think you might be autistic? Have a look at the various autism tests and other psychometric tests (empathy, alexithymia, stimming, camouflaging, etc.) we compiled for you!
A thorough list of scientifically based assessments with descriptions and ability to complete and score. One of my favorite things about a few of these test is that they show that the spectrum isn't a continuum, but more of a web of traits that are on separate but related continua.
Feel free to share your scores to engage in discussion!
Note: A self-assessment is not sufficient to properly assess autism. These assessments can provide helpful insight, but a proper assessment includes at least a thorough interview by a licensed mental health professional that specializes in autism assessment.
This downvote here is what has been mentioned by @backonmyBS@lemmy.world in the toxicity in this community thread. In the post it was asked to post results if someone is comfortable with it so this comment is exactly what contributes to the post.
Downvote things that don't contribute, not things you may not agree with.
It frustrates me so much because you have to figure out for yourself that you might be/are autistic if you want to seek out a diagnosis as an adult. There’s already enough gatekeeping by the medical field, both financially and otherwise. We don’t need to make people second guess if they should even seek an assessment.
It reminds me of the site ytmnd.com, which is where I first heard the idea of a downvoter. It was already a known phenomenon back in the mid 2000s. Someone even made a wiki page about it, categorizing users based on their driving cause.
For me, I got a 42. On one hand, I finally feel like I have an explanation for why I never "fit" in and felt like I was never meant for this world. On the other hand, I feel a little sad about this and, in a way, wish it was something else. But I can't quite figure out why. I need to keep ruminating on this.
About 2 weeks ago I saw something that made it twig for myself. It was a random Orion Kelly video about the biggest signs of autism in adults and I found myself stunned that I hit every point but one.
Initially I was like you. Confused on how to feel. 'Autism' for me has always been a loaded word and came with particular connotations.
But this last week, especially, has certainly softened those feelings. I'm still not happy with applying the word to myself. It feels awkward and an excuse, and coming from 32 years of being fearsomely independent (probably because I'm on the spectrum) and a strong believer in people being in control and responsible of their own actions it's still a tough pill.
Overall I think ruminating has been good for me. Keep researching it, reading/listening to other autistic people's stories and experiences and start making a list of the traits that you identify with.
It's helped me have something that I can share with my partner, and it's helped me realise things like what my stims are etc.
I feel kinda relieved. Autism would be an explanation why so many things that seem obvious to others, seem so weird or different to me. Of course I know that tests and self-evaluation doesn't mean you necessarily have it, but I have been told before by a mental health professional, that I might be autistic. I should definetly look into it more with a professional.