Autism and Mental Illness: Debunking the Myth

It is absolutely possible for someone with autism to show zero signs of mental illness. My experience with my clients with autism has consistently shown that many individuals on the spectrum are not impacted by any form of mental illness. This article aims to challenge the prevailing narrative and explore the complexity of autism beyond its often-pathologized portrayal.

The Pathology-Driven Diagnosis

The current definition of autism is heavily focused on pathology. As a result, only those who struggle tend to receive a diagnosis. In many cases, individuals with autism are diagnosed later in life, often triggered by a difficult life event such as problems at work or in relationships. However, there is a substantial subset of individuals with the autistic brain type who go undiagnosed, often including prominent scientists, artists, musicians, and engineers.

Interestingly, these individuals may not fit the typical diagnostic criteria of the DSM, as these criteria are predominantly based on traits displayed during duress. This leads to a significant gap in understanding the true nature of the autistic brain type. For instance, some individuals who are well-known for sudden emotional or mental health collapses, particularly prominent musicians, appear to be at an increased risk of addiction and suicide.

Neurodivergence and Mental Illness

Evidence suggests that a very large proportion of these individuals are not only autistic or ADHD but also have traits associated with neurodivergence. If autism were not pathologized and stigmatized, and if individuals fitting these descriptions were included under the autistic umbrella, there could be significant improvements in both self-awareness and medical community awareness. This could lead to a significant reduction in suicide and addiction rates, while also fostering a thriving arts and scientific community.

The Autistic community often wonders if a non-traumatized autistic person even exists, as no one has ever been found. However, my belief is that some do exist but would never be diagnosed due to the current diagnostic criteria.

Challenges and Controversies

While the inclusion of neurodivergent individuals under the autistic umbrella offers hope for better understanding and support, it also presents challenges. One of the primary concerns is the risk of eugenicists seeking to eliminate such traits through genetic manipulation. However, this does not negate the need for a more inclusive and less stigmatizing approach to understanding and supporting individuals on the autism spectrum and those with ADHD.

It is crucial to move beyond the restrictive and often pathologizing view of autism and to recognize the diverse and unique qualities that individuals on the spectrum bring to society. By embracing neurodiversity, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate world where everyone can thrive.