By Corinne Beuzelin – Autism Counselling
Introduction
When I tell somebody I am Autistic, I sometimes see the eye roll. The look that says, “Another one!”
It’s a reaction many of my clients also describe. People say there are “too many” seeking diagnosis. They question motives — suggesting people want excuses, to avoid work, or to claim benefits.
As both a therapist and an Autistic woman, I want to set the record straight. Recognising you are Autistic, and choosing to go for a diagnosis, is not an easy route. It is often a long, painful, and confusing journey that deserves validation, not dismissal.
The Myth of “Too Many People”
Yes, there will always be a small number of people who misuse any system. But the way this gets exaggerated creates the harmful idea that people are casually deciding to “be Autistic.”
The reality is very different.
Why Recognising We’re Autistic Is So Hard
For many, it starts with a seed — maybe a YouTube video or a TikTok clip where something suddenly clicks:
- “Oh, I do that too.”
- “That makes sense to me.”
But this is rarely a lightbulb moment. More often, it begins months of inner turmoil:
- “Yes, that’s me.”
- “But what if I’m making it up?”
- “What if I only act like that because I saw it online?”
Autistic people often hyper-analyse, searching for clues yet doubting ourselves because we’re searching. It’s exhausting and deeply unsettling.
In my practice, I meet many clients at this stage. While I always make clear that I do not diagnose, I can say this: in over ten years of working, whenever I have thought someone was neurodivergent, they have gone on to receive a diagnosis if they pursued one.
But the important part is this: diagnosis is a choice. Self-identification is valid. Nobody should feel pressured either way.
The Reality of Diagnosis
Some people assume diagnosis is straightforward. It isn’t. Here’s what it actually involves:
- GP hurdle: many doctors remain uninformed or dismissive about Autism.
- Forms and paperwork: long, invasive questionnaires that can feel retraumatising.
- Waiting lists: 2–4 years on the NHS is typical, even “Right to Choose” is still long.
- Assessment itself: several hours of interviews, observations, and questions that leave many drained and second-guessing themselves.
This is not the “easy option.” It takes resilience and persistence.
The Emotional Side
And then comes the processing: relief, grief for lost years, anger at missed support, fear of what comes next.
That’s why an eye roll — “another one” — cuts so deep. It erases the courage and the struggle behind those words.
Why Validation Matters
What Autistic people need is not minimisation but acknowledgment. A simple, genuine response goes a long way:
- “I hear you.”
- “That makes sense.”
- “Thank you for sharing.”
Every person who identifies as Autistic has taken a brave step. Behind that identity is a journey worth honouring.
What You Can Do
If you ever feel tempted to think, “Everybody’s Autistic these days,” pause and reflect. Instead of dismissing, try to:
- Listen without judgement.
- Learn about the real challenges of recognition and diagnosis.
- Acknowledge the bravery involved.
- Offer support instead of suspicion.
Closing Thoughts
Autism isn’t a trend. It isn’t an excuse. It isn’t about “another one.”
It’s about identity, belonging, and finally finding words for experiences that were always there.
About the Author
I’m Corinne Beuzelin, a counsellor specialising in working with Autistic adults and families. As an Autistic woman myself, I combine lived experience with professional practice to create a space that is supportive, respectful, and neurodivergent-affirming.