What does it say about barriers when someone with autism can achieve so much? Get acquainted with Dr Chai Jing Yun—an individual with a PhD demonstrating that being neurodivergent doesn’t hinder academic or professional accomplishments.
At the age of 20, Chai received an autism diagnosis, which came quite late compared to many others in the ASD community. Since then, she has continually surpassed expectations. In sharing her story, she delves into everything from the factors that prompted her to get diagnosed to the ways she manages her daily life and professional path with increased self-understanding.
Research indicates that numerous individuals remain undiscovered when living with autism, frequently compromising both their physical and psychological health as a result. Chai almost became one of these cases; however, thankfully, a school counselor who identified the underlying problem directed her towards a psychiatrist.
Following several evaluations, she was first thought to have Asperger’s syndrome—an term previously common in the ASD community but which has since been phased out. Ultimately, she obtained an official autism diagnosis.
Yet, acceptance did not come easily. For more than two years, she grappled with denial, finding it hard to completely accept her neurodiversity. It was only after connecting with other autistic people and seeing herself mirrored in their experiences that she ultimately came to terms with her condition.
Today at age 33, Chai is flourishing—not in denial anymore, but completely aware of her true requirements as an autistic individual instead of adhering to typical neurological standards. Her journey underscores how numerous individuals labeled with mental health issues grapple with acceptance. Yet, understanding plays a crucial role—the insight into one’s state can mark the shift towards embracing oneself, obtaining appropriate assistance, and charting a course ahead.
One hurdle she encountered during her autism diagnostic period was disclosing the outcome to those around her. She mentioned that it took more than half a decade before she could publicly reveal her diagnosis and subsequently embarked on her path of self-advocacy soon thereafter.
Chai mentioned that he only shared his diagnosis under essential circumstances, like when requesting university accommodations.
She highlighted the significance of comprehending the condition affecting an individual, particularly autism, as it "has helped me gain a deeper understanding of myself—including my strengths, challenges, and methods to manage or seek assistance when needed," she stated.
“I’ve also grown more receptive to embracing things beyond my control,” she noted, implying that, being autistic, not all aspects of life can be managed, unlike others who might rely on treatments like medications for issues such as anxiety.
Regarding the adverse effects of delayed diagnosis, she mentioned that an earlier detection could have spared someone from enduring hardships during their childhood because of inadequate support for their behavior. In Chai’s case, she experienced selective mutism as a child.
Reflecting on the past, I wish there had been an earlier diagnosis. During my upbringing, I endured significant suffering, largely because of childhood trauma and the absence of support for my selective mutism,” she stated explicitly.
Nevertheless, she pointed out that autism was poorly comprehended in the past, and suitable interventions were lacking compared to today’s standards, which made it difficult for parents or educators to completely understand the consequences of neglecting these measures for individuals with autism.
Chai mentioned, "I doubt that any parents or educators back then truly understood the overwhelming sensory pressure faced by a young girl of seven in a big primary school. This was particularly true for a child who struggled to articulate her fears and traumas due to her own bewilderment and confusion."
She recommended timely evaluation for individuals facing challenges in their lives due to their behavior.
"If you feel like things aren’t entirely right, I'd suggest considering getting a diagnosis as it might bring some clarity and help point you in the right direction, leading you to the appropriate individuals and support systems," she stated.
Nevertheless, Chai recognizes that not everyone might be prepared for a diagnosis—as she herself faced challenges with her own diagnosis—and in certain situations, "it's possible that not everybody truly requires one."
She mentioned that she has encountered grown-ups who were diagnosed but did not consider it very beneficial. In truth, assistance for autism continues to be disjointed and insufficiently funded, causing numerous individuals within the community to lack proper resources. Economic limitations along with restricted access to experts imply that certain persons can't bear the cost of either getting diagnosed or obtaining the required support afterward.
When queried about whether obtaining an autism diagnosis has become simpler nowadays, she acknowledged that substantial obstacles still persist. She also highlighted that numerous other issues like anxiety, depression, and personality disorders frequently get overlooked too.
Several significant hurdles to early detection were pointed out by Chai, encompassing insufficient knowledge, biased diagnoses, restricted access, substantial expenses, and the ongoing stigmatization related to mental well-being and neurological diversity. She stressed that these elements persistently obstruct numerous people from obtaining the acknowledgment and assistance they require.
She explained that autism doesn’t usually manifest in adulthood; instead, it’s a lifelong neurological disorder present from early development.
She mentioned that some individuals might only identify their autistic characteristics during adulthood, resulting in diagnoses later in life. Prior to receiving these diagnoses, they often conceal or modify their behavior to align with societal norms.
After adapting to the initial diagnosis, she mentioned that the type of assistance that proved helpful originated from healthcare providers, psychiatrists, and therapists; however, some of these professionals had limited familiarity with adult autism.
"Their eagerness to learn and adjust their methods significantly impacted my journey. They were the ones who supported me during my darkest times when I felt utterly defeated," she mentioned.
She mentioned that she was lucky enough to receive organized support throughout her college days. This isn’t available to everybody, highlighting the significance of wider social recognition of autism along with enhanced professional training.
When diagnosed, she mentioned that she gained insight into her requirements and restrictions, teaching her to establish limits, particularly in social settings where she could be exposed to intense sensory input.
She mentioned that previously, she often found social gatherings or specific situations involving noises, visuals, and groups challenging. However, grasping her situation helps her organize things better and manage her energy levels, a lesson she continues to refine.
“I also employ practical tools such as earplugs to assist with managing sensory overload, and I drive my vehicle so that I always have a secure space where I can withdraw if everything becomes too intense. These methods help me feel more empowered and reduce stress in my everyday routine,” she mentioned.
MAKING FRIENDS
Chai mentioned that linking up with individuals who have a similar condition has provided her with an "unspeakable comprehension."
Ideally,we avoid obligatory casual conversations; instead, wewhichcommunicate openly with one another. Mutual respect for everyone’s sensory requirements is fundamental here. There are alsochat groupsthatserve as platformsfor sharing personal instances—moments whenIcryoverthingsothersmightfindinsignificant—and discovering shared feelings free from criticism.
"She mentioned that they also connect through common interests like Legos, stuffed animals, and Disney. Nonetheless, not every autistic individual may find the same level of connection since everyone’s experiences, requirements, and likes can vary," she explained.
Compared to explaining things to someone who is neurotypical, it can occasionally be tougher for me when talking with neurotypical friends. Misunderstandings frequently occur, requiring extra effort from my side to close this communication divide.
“But when individuals without neurological differences are open to listening and learning, the bond can be equally powerful,” she said.
ADDRESSING STIGMAS
Chai mentioned that autistic individuals frequently face the misconception that they cannot manage stress or pressure effectively because they are seen as "too sensitive or delicate." She clarified, however, that this notion is incorrect. While they do approach stress management uniquely, others shouldn’t be wary about speaking with them, fearing they might break down easily.
Furthermore, being autistic does not imply rejecting all social events. Rather, we tend to choose and organize our social engagements according to what feels comfortable and manageable for us at that moment.
She emphasized that it's crucial for individuals to allow us to choose how and when we want to participate socially instead of presuming our preferences and immediately leaving us out of gatherings.
She pointed out that another damaging stereotype was the notion that autistic people couldn’t excel as leaders or serve in prominent management roles due to their perceived deficiencies in communication and social skills.
She mentioned that this misunderstanding frequently results in us not getting the chance to showcase our leadership skills. It’s extremely annoying when individuals presume we cannot add value and consequently deny us the opportunity to show them differently.
When discussing how various degrees of autism on the spectrum impact her, she mentioned that categorizing them doesn’t simplify or adequately address autism.
“Labels such as ‘mild’ or ‘high-functioning’ can be misleading and overly simplistic when describing autism,” she stated, noting that numerous individuals within the ASD community tend to shun these terms since they do not adequately reflect the wide spectrum of skills and difficulties one may encounter.
It’s far more beneficial to talk about individual requirements and abilities instead of categorizing individuals into different levels. Take me as an illustration; many folks tend to label me as 'high-functioning' or mention that my autism is just mildly inconvenient. Yet, these same people overlook the challenges I encounter with fundamental organizational skills, something they might classify under 'low-functioning.'
She stated, 'Labeling me as “high-functioning” or “mild” downplays the actual assistance I require and disregards the challenges I face.'
She mentioned that having personal interactions with numerous autistic people who didn’t speak but communicated effectively through alternative means helped shape her viewpoint.
"She also mentioned encountering instances when she withdraws and stops speaking. Rather than categorizing someone as 'high-functioning' or 'mild,' it's more appropriate to outline an autistic individual’s particular requirements and skills, or just identify them as 'autistic,"’" she explained.
As an employed autistic adult, she might still need assistance with social interactions, particularly when expressing her views verbally, and values having prior notice for any alterations to planned activities.
LOOKING AHEAD
"Living after being diagnosed has been simultaneously simpler and more difficult," Chai mentioned.
Even though she has gained a deeper comprehension of her situation and can now effectively communicate her requirements, she mentioned that the hurdles still encompass dismantling decades of ingrained ableism and shedding the habit of masking before receiving her diagnosis. “As I delve into reading and learning more, I’m increasingly aware of my own ignorance,” stated the individual with a PhD in medical biosciences.
She highlighted that the comprehension of autism—including its ideologies, models, terminologies, and evidence-based methods—is constantly evolving, particularly with an increase in autistic perspectives being shared and ongoing expansion in research areas.
This implies that despite being autistic, we continually need to deprogram and reeducate ourselves. Acknowledging my autism and sharing my diagnosis entails taking on the duty of self-advocation, regardless of whether it’s at university or in the professional sphere. She believes that the 1990s could well mark the beginning of autistic self-advocacy in contemporary work environments and family settings.
She stated, "In the future, I envision myself furthering my efforts in advocacy, specifically concentrating on fostering a more inclusive workspace, which aligns with where I stand in my personal journey right now." She highlighted the significance of establishing such environments for people with autism.
She looks forward to witnessing a more cohesive autistic community in Malaysia—a community not fragmented by late diagnoses in adults, parental involvement, varying degrees of support requirements, or distinct neurodivergent groups, but instead united under an umbrella advocating for neurodiversity overall.
"As we acknowledge the variety found among races and religions without placing them in hierarchical order, I aspire to a future where neurodiversity is welcomed with equal measures of respect and inclusivity," she ended her statement.