11/25/2025
A diagnosis changes everything—and not just for the person diagnosed.
When someone in your family or friend group receives an autism diagnosis, it often takes time for loved ones to process the news.
Think about the Girl Meets World episode where they discover their friend, Farkle, is autistic. Their reaction isn’t the expected sadness or drama; it’s a moment of recalibration.
Sometimes, denial or resistance comes from a place of love, fear of the unknown, or a perception that the diagnosis conflicts with who they thought you/your child were.
💖 Our Compassion Tip: If you’ve shared a diagnosis, remember to give grace to those closest to you. They need time to shift their perspective and fully embrace the neurodiversity of the person they love. Education and patience are the greatest tools for acceptance.
We support every person in the family through this journey.
➡️ Need help talking to family members about a new diagnosis?