Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi all,
I've recently joined the community and I'm seeking some advice, I'm 26 years old and have always been fairly certain (along with my family and my GP) that I'm autistic. I finally decided to seek a diagnosis as I want to try to find out why I am the way I am and hopefully come to some form of acceptance and find some coping mechanisms. After a year long battle, I finally have my autism assessment at the beginning of January and I'm really nervous.
My mum is coming with me in order to tell the assessor what I was like as a child and any other bits I'll probably be too nervous to remember at the time!
I just wanted to know, has anyone else had a diagnosis as an adult? What is the initial appointment like? Will I have to go back a few times? And just generally what to expect.
Anything you can tell me would definitely help to calm my nerves so thank you in advance!
Mine was a single 4hr appt, verbal diagnosis at the end. A few questionnaires sent in the post beforehand. I hate talking about myself, but was surprised how well it went, she made it really "easy" I guess as she was clearly well trained in dealing with inexpressive people!
The problem is when I get anxious, I over express and don't shut up and go off on random tangents!
Ah that's what I do too. I rattle on and on and afterwards regret what I've said. In everyday contact I do the same thing... I just talk in an associative manner. Like mind flow ️
It's terrible.
Don't worry, I do that too. They are going at bringing you back onto track if they need to in the assessment.