an introduction, and question

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Hello, Im a 24 year old male living in Southern California who recently self diagnosed myself as having aspergers'
I have recently self diagnosed myself using various online tests, going through the symptoms and reading up on it at this website (and others). Most symptoms seem to be me to the T, especially as I remember events from my childhood. I had a tremendous wave of relief come over me when I found out I am an aspie. and am glad that I've found out what makes me different.
One question though, is there any benefit to having professional diagnosis once you are an adult? I am very confident after reading through everything, but at the same time I dont feel validated unless I get a professional opionion, it just seems a lot of hassle for finding out what I already know is all.

Welcome to WP!

Hi andromeda934
I also never knew what was wrong with me, I was alway f*****g up, not keeping jobs, and had a screwed up childhood. I was so relived to finally figurer out what was going on in my head, I had someone ask me if I was an aspie, and I had no idea what they were talking about, so I did a wiki search and ran some of those online tests, I also talked to my family Doctor who also came to the same conclusion, it all made sense finally, also WP has been the biggest help for letting me understand this condition.

I'm in the same boat, but I'm 25. My revelation of Aspergers felt exactly the same as yours--word for word almost. I'm waiting for an official diagnosis too (April 23rd! counting the days!), even though I know it won't reveal anything I don't already know. However, the few friends who I've mentioned it to don't seem to believe me; which came as a bit of a shock. They seem to want an official diagnosis first before they accept it. So, while it may be obvious to you, most NTs need cold-hard documentation to back something like that up. It's worth getting because you never know when you may need to cite it in the future; and the diagnosing doctor may be able to offer some helpful advice as well.

andromeda934, it all depends on the individual whether getting a professional diagnosis will help or hinder. Also, it can be quite expensive for an adult to get a diagnosis, depending where you are in the world.
If you don't feel validated at the moment, then wait one more week. If then, you still want to seek a professional diagnosis then go for it. But beware, depending where you go, the waiting list is LONG and you may have to wait many months!

I hope you enjoy posting here.

Nice to meet you, andromeda934.

Hi and welcome

Yes, the relief is touchable isn't it.

Welcome andromeda934!