A personal and career defining moment as I announce autism diagnosis
17 August 2017
I have today announced my diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in a personal YouTube video, following a consultation in February.
Asperger syndrome, a form of autism, is used to provide a more realistic view of my challenges but it is a term officially no longer used by medical practioners in the United States.
The National Autistic Society describes autism as "a lifelong, developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with and relates to other people, and how they experience the world around them."
In the video, I explain how, in 2016, a "social anxiety had descended on me" and that I needed "resolution". Following support from family and friends, in February of this year, I was given a diagnosis that now leaves me in a much healthier frame of mind.
It is reported that only 16% of autistic adults in the UK are in full-time paid employment. Whilst I appreciate a diagnosis will naturally hold people back, I feel more confident than ever that I can still pursue a successful career in the media.
You can watch the full video here.