Published on 12, July, 2020
It was suggested by my psychologist and two brothers (who have ASD) that I should do an ASD screening test, based on traits they recognise in me as possibly a result of having ASD. I'm currently under the treatment of a mental health team for OCD, depression and anxiety. At this institute based on their recommendation I completed a screening test and scored in the range of someone who may have ASD, where a follow up assessment is prescribed. However, they said they will have their psychologist speak to me regarding it. At my appointment, he says he doesn't have knowledge of ASD and can't be of help. Since then (over a year ago) nothing has progressed despite me repeatabily asking for a follow up. This may be due to a lack of facilities on site or inadequate protocol, I’m not sure. It has now been almost 2 years since the recommendation and a year since screening, what can I do? I feel I have enough symptoms/traits to warrant further investigation, and have scored accordingly on the test they provided, yet nothing is being done. I believe if a diagnosis is warranted it may help better understand my mental health struggles, offer support and augment my existing treatments, so it's something I feel should be investigated further so one way or another a conclusion can be drawn. Please can you help advise me further on how to proceed as It seems I am blocked where I am and they aren't suited to handle this investigation.Many thanks Darryl
You need to go through your gp to be referred for an assessment. He simply needs enough evidence to suggest that you could be on the spectrum. You’ve already got that, with the screening test you took, but it would be helpful for you to search on this website, the statutory procedure for getting an assessment for ASD in this country. It will give you a clear outline of the procedure so you know what to expect and what questions to ask and what information you need to gather together. It will advice you of what to say when you approach your gp etc. It’s straightforward, the information is presented clearly and once you have this knowledge, you can move things forward. Good luck. Ask us anything you don’t undertstand.
Thanks so much for the advice! I will start again with the GP and present a clear case.