The Neurodivergent Body: Autism, Trauma, and the Mystery of Chronic Illness

why do they co-exist? can I call myself autistic? what does it mean to just seem autistic, but to be diagnosed with complex PTSD instead?

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After five months of an extensive autism assessment with my HMO, I received the results in a document that concluded with this:

“Esmé did not meet criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She meets criteria for Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Type, and she also meets the criteria Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Esmé also meets the criteria for Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and she has a history of panic attacks. The evaluator made his diagnostic decisions based on Esmé's statements, a review of records, and statements, and information collected through loved ones…

…Esmé is also experiencing difficulties with social cognition. Social cognition makes it possible for individuals to understand and “read” someone else's feelings, needs, and nuances expressed through facial expressions, voice, tone, and body language during interactions. This difficulty currently tends to manifest in her personal life, and it has caused tension in her family system, which expects Esme to automatically understand what is expected of her and to read between the lines. Unfortunately, this situation causes stress, and stress management is critical to prevent a psychotic episode…