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Can you tell autism from trauma without a formal diagnosis?

2 replies

Waheymum · 01/08/2026 20:15

My DH disclosed to me, early in our relationship, that he's autistic. I've noticed loads of what I thought were autistic traits over the years. However, he was also a victim of verbal, physical, and psychological abuse by his 'D'M. DH has never had a diagnosis because "there were too many other problems" with his behaviour at school.
My DM has asked me if I think he's actually autistic or just psychologically damaged with traits inherited from his mother. I'm now questioning everything I thought I knew.
Is there any way to tell without him trying to get a diagnosis?

OP posts:
kingarthurt · 08/08/2026 08:43

No, but it’s important to consider autistic people can also be traumatised people. They are not exclusive.

SecondCoffee8 · 08/08/2026 10:42

I don't think anyone can answer that just now, and definitely not an online forum.

Did he have any therapy or support OP?

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