This has been bugging me for a while
If someone is trusting you with something about themselves that they're figuring out, like they think they may have ADHD, are dyslexic, LGBTQIA+ or have a mental illness or whatever anything
I know it can be tempting to say "No you don't", but please remember that you only know the specific parts of someone they decide to share with you. Even if you feel like you know someone really well, they know themselves better.
If they're turning to you with something they're figuring out it means they trust you a lot and they're inviting you to take part in their self discovery. They're not telling you this stuff to be a "special snowflake who wants attention" they're saying it because it feels true to them and they feel comfortable showing you who they are.
By telling them stuff like "I've known you this long and you've never-" "No you're not" "Why would you think that?" you're making them feel stupid about it and they may be less likely to seek help, get a diagnosis or come out. And you'll also likely be met by defensiveness.
INSTEAD here's what you do:
Believe them and be supportive.
You can ask how they came to the conclusion but be careful to ask in a way that doesn't feel like you're asking for proof.
"Why do you think that" can feel judgemental
"For how long have you felt this way?" Feels more compassionate as it focuses on the other person's feelings.
Be supportive by being someone they csn feel heard by and encourage them to get help, a diagnosis or a support group if applicable.
Do this even if you think they're wrong. Why? Say it with me bois!
👏They👏know👏themselves👏best.