Once someone gets an official diagnosis of autism—possibly after a few days, weeks, or even months of testing, and often after months of waiting to even begin the process—it’s pretty easy to be unsure what to do next.

It’s normal to feel lost, and start thinking, “Now what?”

 Should you change everything in your life to revolve around this newfound adult diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder? Or do you take the business as usual approach?

Like so many things in life, typically the best answer is neither, when considering two extremes. That means that most likely, finding a balance between these strategies is the best approach. Yes, it is a good idea to to make some changes to accommodate your newfound knowledge of yourself, but it’s also a good idea to not do too much, too fast.

Make gradual changes in your life, taking it one step at a time, because people with autism notoriously have a hard time with change. If you change everything all at once, you could just make things worse. An official diagnosis of autism can bring so much good into your life, because it can bring you validation to some of your differences you may have curious about your entire life.

However, but like any other tool, receiving that adult diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder can also be used to make things worse if used in the wrong way.

Now What? What To Do After Receiving A Diagnosis of Autism

You This moment marks the beginning of a new journey of self-understanding and adaptation. While each person’s experience is unique, certain patterns emerge in how people respond to their diagnosis.

Understanding these common pitfalls can help newly diagnosed individuals navigate this significant life transition more effectively. This article explores the top ten mistakes people typically make after receiving a diagnosis of autism, based on research, professional observations, and reports from the autistic community.

1. Viewing the Diagnosis as a Label Rather Than Information

When someone receives a diagnosis of autism, there’s often an immediate tendency to let this new information completely redefine their identity. Some people begin to attribute every aspect of their personality, preferences, and behaviors to being autistic, while others reject the diagnosis entirely because they fear being reduced to a label.

Research in disability studies shows that while diagnostic labels provide important explanatory frameworks, they can sometimes overshadow individual characteristics. Autism researcher Dr. Stephen Shore famously stated, “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism,” highlighting the vast diversity within the autism spectrum.

The diagnosis provides valuable information about neurological differences but doesn’t change who you fundamentally are. Many autistic adults report that the most constructive approach is viewing the diagnosis as an explanatory tool—one that helps make sense of lifelong patterns and experiences—rather than allowing it to become a restrictive label that defines every aspect of existence.

Organizations like the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) emphasize that autism is an integral part of an individual’s identity and experience, but not their entire identity. Understanding this distinction helps people incorporate their diagnosis of autism into their self-concept in a balanced way.

LEARN MORE: Labels and Names – Why Labeling People Leads to Discrimination

2. Trying to Mask Harder

Masking—the process of suppressing autistic traits and mimicking neurotypical behaviors—is common among autistic individuals, particularly those diagnosed later in life. 

Ironically, after diagnosis, some people intensify their masking efforts, believing they need to “fix” themselves or hide their autism more effectively now that it’s been officially identified.

Research published in journals like Autism in Adulthood documents the significant mental health toll of prolonged masking. Studies show consistent correlations between extensive masking and increased anxiety, depression, burnout, and even suicidal ideation among autistic adults.

Camouflaging Autism Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q) indicates that many autistic people mask to avoid stigma and discrimination. However, the diagnosis should ideally serve as permission to reduce unnecessary masking rather than intensify it.

Autistic advocates consistently highlight that while strategic social adaptations may sometimes be necessary, continuous suppression of natural autistic behaviors often leads to exhaustion and psychological harm.

LEARN MORE: Masked Symptoms of Autism in Adults You need to Recognize

The diagnosis can be an opportunity to understand which accommodations might be helpful and which masking behaviors might be unnecessarily taxing.

3. Going Into Information Overload Mode

With the expanding availability of autism resources, newly diagnosed individuals often immerse themselves in an overwhelming amount of information. They may rapidly consume books, scientific papers, online forums, blogs, podcasts, and social media content about autism—all within a short period after diagnosis.

While education about autism is valuable, this information deluge can become counterproductive. The autism literature contains varied and sometimes contradictory perspectives, from traditional medical viewpoints to neurodiversity frameworks.

Without sufficient context or critical analysis skills, it’s easy to become confused or misled by oversimplified or outdated information.

Qualitative research with late-diagnosed autistic adults shows that many experience information fatigue and anxiety when trying to process too much autism-related content too quickly. The diverse presentations of autism further complicate this, as what applies to one person may not apply to another.

Mental health professionals who work with those receiving a recent adult diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder often recommend a measured approach to autism education: focusing on reputable sources, pacing one’s learning, and recognizing that understanding autism—especially one’s own autism—is a gradual process rather than an immediate achievement.

RELATED: The Exhausting Truth About Autistic Burnout You Need to Know

4. Immediately Disclosing Your Diagnosis to Everyone

The relief of finally having an explanation for lifelong differences sometimes prompts newly diagnosed individuals to share their diagnosis broadly and immediately.

While disclosure can be liberating and important for securing accommodations, telling everyone right away sometimes leads to unanticipated complications.

Research on autism disclosure in workplace and social settings reveals mixed outcomes. Studies show that disclosure decisions carry significant consequences for social relationships, employment opportunities, and self-perception.

Many autistic adults report experiencing misconceptions, invalidation (“you don’t look autistic”), or unwanted advice following disclosure.

Disclosure is ultimately a personal choice, but autism support specialists typically recommend a strategic approach. This involves carefully considering the potential benefits and risks of disclosure in each context, preparing for various responses, and having information ready to share about what autism means specifically for you.

Starting with a smaller circle of trusted individuals who can provide support during the adjustment period often proves more beneficial than broad immediate disclosure. Organizations like AANE (Asperger/Autism Network) provide disclosure decision-making resources to help individuals navigate this complex aspect of post-diagnosis life.

READ MORE: Autism Disclosure – Is Revealing Your Disorder Helpful or Hurtful?

5. Ignoring the Need for Accommodations

Despite having an explanation for their challenges, many newly diagnosed individuals resist implementing accommodations. This reluctance may stem from internalized ableism, fear of appearing “different,” or the mistaken belief that diagnosis alone should somehow make difficulties disappear.

Research consistently shows that appropriate accommodations substantially improve quality of life, productivity, and well-being for autistic individuals. These might include environmental modifications (noise-canceling headphones, adjusted lighting), communication supports, schedule adaptations, or executive functioning tools.

Studies of autistic adults in educational and workplace settings demonstrate that accommodations aren’t “special treatment” but rather equitable adjustments that remove barriers to participation. Without such accommodations, autistic individuals often struggle with preventable stress and performance issues.

Occupational therapists specializing in autism note that accommodation needs may evolve over time and in different contexts. The diagnosis offers an opportunity to explore and implement supports that could significantly reduce daily challenges—an opportunity lost when accommodation needs are ignored.

RELATED: AI Future Promises Hope In Terms of Autism Support

6. Seeking Immediate ‘Cures’ or Intensive Therapies

The diagnosis of autism sometimes triggers a frantic search for treatments, interventions, or even “cures” in reaction to the “now what” panic that some individuals experience. Particularly for parents of newly diagnosed children, but also for some adults, this can lead to pursuing numerous therapies simultaneously or investing in treatments with limited evidence.

The scientific consensus among major health organizations is clear: autism is a lifelong neurological difference, not a disease to be cured. Research in developmental neuroscience shows that the autistic brain develops differently from early stages—these are fundamental neurological differences, not deficits to eliminate.

While certain therapies and supports may improve specific challenges associated with autism (anxiety management, communication strategies, sensory integration), approaches that aim to eliminate autistic traits entirely often cause psychological harm according to research on adult autism outcomes.

The Autistic Self Advocacy Network, alongside other major autism organizations, emphasizes focusing on quality of life improvements rather than normalization as the appropriate goal of post-diagnostic support. This might include therapy for co-occurring conditions, skill development in challenging areas, or accommodations—but always with respect for autistic neurology.

RELATED: Learn How to Love Yourself – Autism Self-Care Ideas

7. Neglecting Co-occurring Conditions

When autism is finally identified, there’s sometimes a tendency to attribute all difficulties to autism itself, overlooking common co-occurring conditions that require their own attention and treatment approaches.

Research demonstrates high rates of co-occurring conditions in autistic individuals. Studies estimate that 50-70% of autistic people meet criteria for ADHD, 40-60% experience anxiety disorders, and 30-50% encounter depression at some point.

Additionally, conditions like dyspraxia, dyslexia, sleep disorders, gastrointestinal issues, and sensory processing differences frequently co-occur with autism.

Medical professionals specializing in autism emphasize the importance of comprehensive evaluation and treatment planning that addresses the full range of an individual’s needs, not just autism-specific concerns. Treating co-occurring conditions often substantially improves quality of life, sometimes more immediately than autism-specific interventions.

The concept of diagnostic overshadowing—where symptoms are incorrectly attributed to a primary diagnosis while missing additional conditions—is well-documented in autism research. Newly diagnosed individuals benefit from working with healthcare providers knowledgeable about the common overlap between autism and other conditions.

LEARN MORE: Autism and ADHD Overlap – Making Sense of the Co-Occurring Conditions

8. Isolating From Non-autistic Connections

After diagnosis, some individuals retreat into autism-only spaces and distance themselves from neurotypical friends and family. While connecting with other autistic people is valuable, completely withdrawing from previous relationships can lead to harmful isolation.

Social psychology research shows that diverse social connections contribute to psychological wellbeing for all humans, including autistic individuals.

Studies of autistic adults indicate that quality of relationships—characterized by understanding, acceptance, and mutual respect—matters more than whether those relationships are with autistic or non-autistic people.

Autism community organizations observe that newly diagnosed individuals often benefit most from building connections within the autistic community while maintaining relationships with supportive non-autistic people who are willing to learn and adapt. This balanced approach provides both specific autism-related understanding and broader social engagement.

Therapists who work with newly diagnosed adults note that post-diagnosis identity development typically proceeds more healthily when individuals can explore their autistic identity within a mixed social context rather than in isolation from all previous connections.

READ MORE: Freeze Response – How to Overcome the Dreaded Autism Anxiety Shutdown

9. Over-Explaining or Over-apologizing

Following diagnosis, many individuals begin attributing every action, preference, or interaction style to their diagnosis of autism. This can manifest as constantly explaining or apologizing for behaviors that are simply part of human diversity.

Social psychology research indicates that excessive self-disclosure about any condition can sometimes reinforce stigma rather than reduce it. Studies show that while educational disclosure can improve understanding, repeatedly highlighting differences in everyday interactions sometimes creates awkwardness and reinforces perceptions of otherness.

Autism advocates point out that all humans have preferences and needs—autistic individuals don’t need to justify or apologize for theirs any more than anyone else. Learning to differentiate between situations where disclosure serves a purpose (explaining specific needs for accommodation) versus unnecessary over-explanation represents an important post-diagnosis skill.

As autistic writer Devon Price notes in their research-based work, the goal isn’t to ignore how autism shapes experience but rather to develop a matter-of-fact relationship with these differences that doesn’t involve constant justification or apology.

RELATED: Fitting In – How Double Empathy Problem Relates to Being Liked

10. Rushing Major Life Changes

An adult diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder can feel like permission to completely overhaul one’s life—changing careers, ending relationships, moving, or dramatically altering routines all at once. While some changes may indeed be beneficial, making too many significant life decisions during the emotionally charged post-diagnosis period often leads to regret.

Research on major life transitions suggests that humans generally adapt better to change when it occurs incrementally rather than all at once. Psychological studies of post-diagnosis adaptation in various conditions consistently show that processing and integration take time—usually months or years rather than days or weeks.

Mental health professionals who specialize in adult autism diagnosis recommend a measured approach to life changes following diagnosis. This typically involves working with a therapist familiar with autism to explore which aspects of life might benefit from adjustment, prioritizing changes, and implementing them gradually rather than simultaneously.

Autistic adults who received diagnoses years earlier frequently report that their understanding of how autism affects them continued to evolve long after diagnosis. Decisions made immediately, post-diagnosis sometimes reflected incomplete self-understanding that developed more fully with time and reflection.

LEARN MORE: Sensory Diet Dysfunction? A Sensory Diet Can Change Your Life

Moving Forward Constructively

The diagnosis of autism in adulthood represents not an endpoint but the beginning of a journey toward greater self-understanding and authentic living. Research on post-diagnostic support indicates that those who navigate this transition most successfully typically:

1. Find balanced ways to incorporate autism into their identity without allowing it to become all-encompassing
2. Connect with autistic peers for validation and shared experience
3. Educate themselves from diverse, reputable sources at a manageable pace
4. Make thoughtful, strategic decisions about disclosure
5. Implement accommodations that address specific challenges
6. Address co-occurring conditions alongside autism-specific concerns
7. Build a support network that includes both autistic and non-autistic allies
8. Allow themselves time to process and adjust to the diagnosis before making major life changes

The autism diagnosis offers valuable explanatory power for making sense of lifelong experiences. When approached thoughtfully, this information becomes a foundation for making informed choices about accommodations, relationships, and life direction.

With appropriate support and realistic expectations about the adjustment process, newly diagnosed individuals can use this information to move toward greater self-acceptance and improved quality of life.

According to the Autism Self-Advocacy Network, “The most important thing to remember is that there is no ‘right way’ to be autistic.” Each person’s post-diagnosis journey will be unique, shaped by their specific profile of strengths and challenges, personal history, available resources, and individual goals.

Avoiding common pitfalls can make this journey smoother, but the pace and path of integration remain deeply personal.

READ MORE: Hope for the Future – Will It Transform the Autism World?

Autism in Adults:  Living, Learning, and Overcoming Challenges for a Fulfilled Life

Autism in adults requires additional support and coping skills to achieve independence in today’s world.
Learn more about ways adults can live fulfilled lives and the challenges they face.

• Diagnosis Roadblocks: Why an Adult Autism Test Can Be A Challenge
• 14 Practical Ways for Staying Motivated to Unlock Full Potential
• Rigid Routine: Why Being Inflexible Can Harm Happiness
• Autism and Independence: 7 Skills That Empower Individuals to Thrive
• Dangers of Social Media Addiction: How To Leave the Screens And Face the Real World
• Life Hacks for Aging Adults with Autism
• Autism Volunteer Opportunities: 5 Ways Helping Others Fosters Acceptance
• 8 Heartfelt Ways Autism Emotional Support Animals Transform Lives
• Top 25 Hurdles Individuals Face Daily on the Spectrum
• Autism vs Asperger’s Syndrome: What You Need to Know
• Autism Disclosure: Is Revealing Your Disorder Helpful or Hurtful?
• Work and Autism: What Employers Should Know About Hiring People with Neurodiversity