DIAGNOSIS AFTERSHOCK: The 5 stages you go through after an autism or ADHD diagnosis

In this episode of LATE BLOOMERS, Rich and Rox talk honestly about what actually happens after you’re diagnosed autistic or ADHD. The relief. The grief. The anger. The validation. The spiral. The moments where your entire past suddenly makes sense — and the moments where that realisation hurts like hell.

They walk through the five emotional stages many people experience after a late diagnosis, from the initial shock of finding out, to replaying your childhood with new eyes, to questioning your identity, relationships, and every label you’ve ever been given. This is about the unmasking that follows, the confusion of not knowing who you are without survival mode, and the slow process of learning to meet yourself with compassion instead of shame.

This episode is for anyone who thought a diagnosis would bring instant peace — and instead found themselves grieving, reprocessing, and rebuilding. If you’re somewhere in the aftershock, this conversation will help you feel less alone and a little more grounded in what comes next.