Autism Post-Diagnosis Support Checklist

Have you or someone you care about just received a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder?

This post-diagnostic support checklist may be helpful for an autistic person (or their family/supporter) to use after receiving a diagnosis.

1.  Understanding Your Diagnosis

• Read your assessment report carefully; ask for a plain-language explanation if needed.

• Make a note of any co-occurring conditions identified (e.g., ADHD, anxiety).

• Write down any questions you still have and who to ask (clinician, GP, school/work).

• Keep all documents in a safe folder (digital or paper).

2.  Learning About Autism in Daily Life

• Explore how autism affects communication, sensory needs, and wellbeing.

• Look into strategies for managing meltdowns, shutdowns, or burnout.

• Learn about autistic strengths (focus, creativity, honesty, detail).

• If helpful, share information with family, teachers, or colleagues to improve understanding.

3.  Practical Next Steps

• Find out about workplace/school/university accommodations and your legal rights.

• Check eligibility for benefits or support schemes (where available).

• Ask your GP or clinician about referrals to occupational therapy, speech therapy, or mental health support if needed.

• Start using coping strategies now (visual schedules, sensory tools, communication supports).

4.  Connecting with Community

• Join local autism groups or online forums to meet others with lived experience.

• Follow autistic voices on blogs, YouTube, or social media for relatable insights.

• Explore peer mentoring or buddy programmes if offered locally.

• Share your diagnosis at your own pace — disclosure is your choice.

5.  Emotional & Identity Support

• Give yourself space to process feelings — relief, pride, grief, or mixed emotions are all valid.

• Consider counselling with someone experienced in autism if needed.

• Explore the idea of “unmasking” (reducing the need to hide autistic traits).

• Celebrate achievements and strengths — diagnosis is about understanding, not limitation.

6. Ongoing Growth

• Read books or listen to podcasts by autistic authors and advocates.

• Look for resources tailored to your stage of life (child, teen, adult, late-diagnosed).

• Try courses or workshops on social skills, workplace adjustments, or self-advocacy.

• Keep updating your “what helps me” list for school, work, or family to use.

Key message: Diagnosis is not the end of the journey — it’s a starting point for understanding yourself, building support, and connecting with community.