Personal Statement/university Essay Question

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I'm just wondering if I should mention Asperger's as a 'challenge overcome'; honestly, most of the challenges I've faced in life stem from this, including my Anxiety Disorder(which has definitely impacted my schooling/grades).

However, general opinion seems to be torn on this, so (my neurotic searching) my research has finally led me to wonder if declaring something such as this will get any consideration, or if it would be negative. I don't expect any changes in the admissions process itself, but am worried about some of the more 'social' aspects of the admissions process, specifically interviews(I'd feel bad asking for special treatment from disability services, as I've made it 'this far' whilst keeping my mouth shut) if I don't have eye contact, etc.

(also, I'm sorry if this is in the incorrect section;was going to post in essays till I realised it had morphed into something more general.

Edit; also, would I be better off generalising any mental syndromes, or not mentioning them at all?

(and hello, I am new here, haha)

I would suggest using the anxiety disorder as something you've overcome, since in reality that can be overcome, while AS cannot. You can't "get better" so to speak, from autism, you'll always be autistic. But you can use your experiences to overcome the anxiety that stems from having it and I'm sure an entrance counselor can advise you further. Personally, as I have to mention, I haven't overcome the anxiety but would definitely use it in a personal essay to a college (I'm planning on applying next year to finish my bachelor's). I would stay away from mentioning AS on anything official other than your IEP.

HTH, and welcome!

I disagree. While you can never be cured of AS, you can overcome it to the point that you are able to function in society, make friends, hold a job, live independently, and have relationships. Think about the percentages of people with AS who can say those things. The Temple Grandins and John Robisons of the world are not the norm.

Those are incredible achievements most certainly worth mentioning on how you overcame. I tip my hat to you, and I would def write about it.