#but I mean the people that say skipping lines is a ‘benefit of autism’ or whatever

[1980s-slasher-film]

Accommodations are not special, they’re not a leg up, they’re not a benefit. They’re not putting anyone ahead in the race, nor are they taking anything away from others.

They exist to put us on a level playing ground to everyone else, and nothing more.

[smashingstigma-blog]

We have been reading a lot of the positives of going for a diagnosis

At smashing stigma, we believe in self diagnosis. We believe it is crucial in a kind of self acceptance. Saying and believing "Yes, i am autistic." Is powerful. We know diagnosis is hard, even impossible, for lots of people. If you are not sure about getting a diagnosis, this might help. Here are some benefits of being diagnosed as autistic in England: Universities: some Universities offer autism summer school for example Bath university have here http://www.bath.ac.uk/psychology/autism-summer-school.html Universities might offer the contextual offer or lower grade offer to take away some pressure, also if the university is the only one you can go to because of not being able to move away they will help. Theme parks: you can skip the queues because they are sensory hell with up to 3 people. Sleeping: many doctors in England are fussy about sleeping medication, with an autism diagnosis you are much more likely to get help with insomnia along with other things, for example concentration. Airports: free assistance, this just means you can skip the queues and the flight crew are notified of you to help. For example you can get on the plane before everyone else or after if you prefer. Benefits and care: money and care assistance is available see this link by the NAS http://www.autism.org.uk/about/benefits-care/benefits.aspx Blue badge: while this isn't as common with autistic people blue badges can be issued. Particularly if you have the benefits mentioned above. Concessions travel: if you are autistic and need people to travel with you for example on the bus that can be paid for. Education support plan: not sure if that is the official term. But if you have a diagnosis of autism you can be eligible for a education support plan. This will give you extra time to complete any education along with the funding to do so, so it costs nothing for you. It will also put in place exam arrangements. Community care assessment - if you are eligible for community care you then get helped with the areas you may require assistance with. For example practical stuff at home for example cooking, travel assistance, home adaptations, someone to encourage you to do things (get dressed), a personal budget, some times holidays are arranged etc. We are sure there are more, so followers please share your experiences regardless of country. The bottom line is that if you think you are autistic, you are autistic. You get to decide that because you know yourself. If are worried about "faking it" you aren't, because you would know.