Published on 12, July, 2020
After months of waiting, I have finally been invited to a discussion of the outcome of my assessment in a couple of weeks time. I have heard mixed reports of what to expect. Some people seem to just get a very brief diagnosis, others a multi page document and other resources/signposting. So I don't know how to prepare. I feel desperate, though, and need to get as much out of this appointment as possible. Obviously I'm hoping I've got a team that does a full report and highlights local and national resources for me, as well as considering what I think is a really important issue (and indeed the one which drove me towards seeking a formal assessment) - autism as a family issue.
There have been so many issues within my family over the years and these have become quite desperate in the cases of both of my sons. Neither will consider going for an assessment themselves so it's a vexed issue, but in order to seek appropriate help, I feel I need to know what's going on in my family. My own diagnosis will, I think, give me some indication even though I appreciate this would be more of a balance of likelihoods/working hypothesis.
If I don't get diagnosed I'll feel I've drawn a blank and won't know what to do. However, with the end of the diagnostic process, I will be discharged from the Autism Team and also the local Affective Disorders Team (lovely title!) which oversees this service. So i'll have nothing.
I'm quite afraid of what might happen next. What questions and expectations should I take to this last appointment?
Congrats on your diagnosis
Ive got my first appointment next Friday - 10 weeks from referral
Im hoping the whole process doesn't take as long a yours!
James
It took me months from referral so you're already ahead. However, I would advise asking on the first appointment about the whole process and how long it might take to the point of diagnosis. I wish it had been explained to me in advance.