It depends on the individual. Some people need a professional validating their suspicions others don’t.
It has helped a lot with my self esteem. It explained why I made key life decisions that went bad, specifically that it was not character flaws but then way I am “wired”. It helped me know my weaknesses and strengths. Plenty of times in life you cannot avoid situations that are bad for you, this knowledge helps me find ways to mitigate these situations.
Again not everybody needs professional validation to gain these benefits.
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Professionally Identified and joined WP August 26, 2013
DSM 5: Autism Spectrum Disorder, DSM IV: Aspergers Moderate Severity
“My autism is not a superpower. It also isn’t some kind of god-forsaken, endless fountain of suffering inflicted on my family. It’s just part of who I am as a person”. - Sara Luterman