Receiving an autism diagnosis can be an emotional time. Whether
it's for yourself, a child or a loved one, an official diagnosis
can often provide clarity, but it can also lead to some difficult
questions. Who can you turn for support? Where can you find the
services that best fit your needs? What's the best way to share
this news with family and friends?

In this edition of E-Speaks, we'll help you answer some of
these questions and provide firsthand accounts of personal diagnosis
stories from members of the autism community. You'll also get
access to critical resources to help navigate a new diagnosis and find
out how one generous Autism Speaks donor was inspired to support
people with autism and their families after a close friend's
child was diagnosed.

In our own words: Diagnosis stories from the autism community

Meet Micah James, Victoria and Idoh, three adults on the spectrum
diagnosed at different stages in their lives. In this blog, they share
their stories in hopes of inspiring others in the autism community to
embrace their own unique journeys: [link removed]

Expert Q&A: Autism spectrum disorder and the DSM-5

Over the years, as researchers and clinicians have gained a better
understanding of autism spectrum disorder, the autism diagnosis has
evolved. In this Q&A, Peter J. Chung, MD, FAAP, discusses the
diagnostic criteria for ASD in the DSM-5 ([link removed] , ways the understanding of autism has evolved and the benefits of a
formal autism diagnosis.

Autism Speaks offers resources to guide you on the path to a diagnosis

Making the decision to pursue an autism diagnosis can be confusing,
but Autism Speaks has the resources you need to stay informed at every
stage of life. If you are a parent who is concerned about your
child's development, take our screening questionnaire ([link removed] ) and download our First Concern to Action Tool Kit ([link removed] ). If you're an adult who suspects you may be on the spectrum, download our Guide for Adults ([link removed] ). If your child has recently received an autism diagnosis, view our 100 Day Kit for young children - ages 4 and under ([link removed] ) and school-age children - ages 5 to 13 ([link removed] ).

Navigating a New Diagnosis video series

Tune into the Autism Speaks virtual series designed for autistic
people, families, care providers and anyone seeking information on how
to best navigate a new diagnosis. The series includes a session for
parents of young and school-aged children ([link removed] ) and one for both young and older adults ([link removed] ). In these recorded videos, participants can hear from parents, topic
experts, self-advocates and others sharing their personal experiences
and expertise.

Adulting on the Spectrum: On a mission to make diagnosis more
accessible to women

In the latest Adulting on the Spectrum podcast, hosts Eileen Lamb and
Andrew Komarow speak with Dolly Ferraiuolo, a licensed clinical social
worker in the state of Florida. Dolly is passionate about helping
autistic people with sexual health and wellness issues, anxiety,
eating disorders, trauma and grief. In this episode, Dolly shares her
experience getting an autism diagnosis in her late twenties and her
tips for other adults who believe they may be on the spectrum. Listen
to or read a transcript of the podcast here: [link removed]

Wear blue during April - World Autism Month! Shop now: [link removed]


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