Thought of the Week: Why Labels Matter or Don’t

Labels can be tricky, can’t they? Some people love them; others avoid them like the plague. For me, learning I was autistic as an adult meant stepping into a world of labels I’d never fully considered before. Suddenly, I had a word that explained so much about my experiences; my challenges, my strengths, the way I see the world. But that label came with mixed emotions. Was it empowering? Limiting? Perhaps Both?

I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about the role labels play in our lives. At their best, they provide clarity and a sense of belonging. When I first heard the word “autistic” applied to me, it was like someone handed me a map to myself. Things I used to think of as personal failings, such as my need for routine, my struggles with sensory overload, my hyperfocus, suddenly made sense. They weren’t flaws; they were just part of how my brain works. That label helped me see myself in a new, kinder light.

But labels can also feel restrictive. Once you have one, it can feel like you’re being squeezed into a box with rigid edges. What if I don’t fit all the stereotypes of autism? What if people assume things about me that aren’t true? I worried that being labelled would overshadow the complexity of who I am. After all, no single word, no matter how powerful, can capture the full scope of a person’s identity, can it?

Here’s what I’ve come to realise: a label is only as meaningful as the context you give it. For me, calling myself autistic is a way of understanding myself, not limiting myself. It’s a shorthand that explains why I do certain things, why I feel certain ways, and why my perspective is valuable. It’s not the whole story of who I am, but it’s an important chapter.

How do you feel about labels? Are there any that resonate with you? Or ones you reject? Maybe you’ve embraced a label, and it’s brought you comfort or connection. Or maybe you’ve decided not to label yourself at all because it doesn’t feel right. Both choices are valid, and deeply personal. What I’ve learned is that labels are tools, not definitions. They can help us explain ourselves to others and connect with communities where we feel seen and understood. But they don’t have to dictate who we are or who we’ll become. The power lies in how we choose to use them.

So, here’s my thought for the week: what role do labels play in your life? Do they help you understand yourself better or connect with others? Or do they feel like boxes you’re trying to break free from?

For me, the label “autistic” has been a key to unlocking self-acceptance. It’s helped me find community, advocate for my needs, and celebrate the unique way my brain works. But it’s not the only word that defines me, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. And I think that’s true for all of us: we’re bigger, messier, and more amazing than any single label could ever capture.