First of all – you're not alone.

I'd love to say I've been there, but truth be told, it's where I am right now. Always felt a bit different, a bit like I just don't fit in. Trying to integrate, to play along, but somehow always hitting a wall. And it's not that we're not trying, or that we don’t want to. It just feels… kinda out of reach.

Now we're finally at the stage where we might get an explanation for all of it. We're in the assessment phase. But it's a bittersweet feeling. A wave of relief mixed with uncertainty. What if it’s found to be true? What if it’s not?

I don’t know about you, but for me, the possibility that they might not confirm the suspected diagnosis leaves me feeling even more insecure. And then all the questions start flooding in: Should I already tell close ones about the diagnostic process? What will happen afterwards? And again—what if not?

After the first wave of struggles, I found some small but powerful practices that help me stay calm and centered, even when the world feels loud and confusing. Maybe a few of them will help you navigate this part of your journey, too.

1. Be proud that you had the courage to embark on this journey

This is a big step—not to be underestimated. It’s an emotional, exhausting ride, but you did it. You decided to take action, to take control, and to take the risk. That’s something to be truly proud of.

2. Acknowledge that no matter the outcome, it is good to know

Knowledge brings clarity. It may not bring easy answers, but it's always better than the quiet, endless uncertainty. Even if the diagnosis isn’t confirmed, you’ll still know more than before. You’ll be better equipped to decide whether to dig deeper or take a different path. And no matter what, you’re the one in power.

3. Inform yourself

No matter what mental condition you're being assessed for, inform yourself. Read up on it, learn about the assessment process, and ask your questions—yes, all of them. Talk to your doctor. The more you know, the more anchored you'll feel. Understanding what might come won’t remove the emotions, but it helps soften the edge of surprise.

4. Plan for either outcome

Think about the next steps from your perspective—not the medical one (that’s your doctor’s job). If it’s confirmed, what matters to you? Do you want to share the news with loved ones? Will you need some space to reflect? Maybe even take a few days off?

But also prepare for a “no.” Would you want to explore further? How certain do you feel deep down? Will you seek a second opinion? Is a diagnosis something you need to feel validated?

5. Have a supporter

It can be your partner, your best friend, a sibling, a therapist, a pastor… It doesn’t matter who, as long as it’s someone you trust to hold space for you—someone who’s supportive no matter what. Don’t walk this alone.

6. Journal

I never had a consistent journaling practice before, but since I started this journey, I’ve been writing more regularly. And honestly? It helps so much. Just getting the whirlwind of thoughts and emotions out of your head can feel like a deep breath.

It also helps when talking to your supporter—when things are written down, they become easier to understand and explain. Without it, it can feel like a mess that’s hard to put into words. Journaling gently untangles it.

From my heart, I hope these tips bring you a little more peace and love as you move through this process. Please know that you are not alone in how you feel. And never, ever forget to be kind to yourself—and to love yourself as you are. No diagnosis is needed to validate your worth.

With all my love,

Note: These recommendations are based solely on personal experience. For medical advice, please consult a professional.

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