By Bryony White — 2016
Confusion over why autism is so prevalent among transgender people may be limiting their access to medical care.
Read on www.theatlantic.com
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My story differs from many others who grow up with a developmental disorder, because at the same time, I was also finding my way as a young gay man.
In the autism community, functioning labels are discouraged because they can be misleading. A person can be able to function independently in some areas but require significant support in others. People labeled as high functioning can often have significant needs that are overlooked.
Therapists, psychologists and nurses who are autistic say it has made them better at their jobs, but that misconceptions about the condition are forcing them to keep their diagnosis a secret.
Things have dramatically improved in my life since high school. I am lucky that I have a family that loves me, that I have friends who support me and that I live in a progressive area like Montgomery County, Maryland. Many people are less lucky.
Studies vary widely on the percentage of people with autism who are gay, lesbian, or bisexual. One analysis suggested the rate is 15 to 35 percent among autistic people who do not have intellectual disability.
Good teachers helped me to achieve success. I was able to overcome autism because I had good teachers.
I put a great deal of emphasis on employment because I see so many very intelligent people with autism and Asperger's syndrome without satisfying jobs. A satisfying profession made life have meaning for me. I am what I do and think instead of what I feel.
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