For diagnosed autistics: How has a diagnosis been helpful/unhelpful for you?
I suspect that I am autistic, and I am debating on whether I should get a formal evaluation. But a diagnosis is only a a piece of paper that lets you and other people know you are autistic; it does not worsen or improve your struggles, it does not automatically come with disability accommodations, and at a personal level it just serves as peace of mind. If I have always been socially awkward, I will be socially awkward with or without a diagnosis.
In many situations (except formal disability accommodation and benefit applications), it is often more helpful to describe oneself (e.g. "I am socially awkward and repetitive") instead of saying straightforwardly "I am autistic," due to the layers of stigma attached with the word autism. I have not yet mentioned that formal diagnoses are often very expensive where I live, and I am not yet sure on how much my insurance covers.
So, for people with diagnoses, how has the diagnosis helped or hindered you in your post-diagnosis life? If you could live your life again, would you choose to get a diagnosis?
Edit: Wow thanks so much to all of you all's responses!