Why did it take 12 years?

I'm 54 and only just been assessed and diagnosed with ASD.

I had a breakdown after bullying at work, 75 hour weeks and high stress levels.

I spent 12 years under the community mental health team. They diagnosed chronic severe depression and anxiety and at various times have even diagnosed borderline personality disorder. In those 12 years I have only had 12 hours of counselling,  been on every antidepressant going and even been subjected to ECT.

About 3 years ago I found an ex on Facebook who was a nurse. She told me I had always had ASD and it was obvious. This helped things, in my own mind, begin to make sense. I'd been in a school for Maladjusted Children as a teen.

I raised it with my GP and the CMHT. My GP made a referral. The CMHT took no notice. As soon as I was on the waiting list, CMHT refused to carry on 'treating ' me. They went as far as to say they would only treat me if I came off the Neuropsychology waiting list.

3 weeks ago, after 2 years of waiting, I finally received a diagnosis of ASD. 

During the 2 years on the waiting list I had the crisis team out several times as my mental health care was left to my GP.

Life is already making more sense. I'm not weird, I'm just me.

I still have no idea what happens next. Do I start to get the right support and treatment?

Will This come via the GP or will I be referred to a specialist?

My big question would be: Shouldn't the mental health professionals spotted the ASD? Aren't they trained? Should I ever have been given the harmful drugs I've had? Should I ever have been given ECT?

The last 12 years have been hell. I lost my job, my home and everything I own. I lost my wife.

I feel that if I'd understood myself and ASD I would have coped better and not had the breakdown. If I'd been diagnosed earlier I'm sure I would have dealt with the depression and anxiety better and could have dealt with things better.

Parents
  • I was also diagnosed three weeks ago, at 31, and feel much the same as you!

    I never reached my potential and have had anxiety, depression and an eating disorder my whole adult life.  It’s really sad but at least we know now why we are this way.  I’m sorry that I can’t help with what comes next as I have no idea myself! I’m sorry life has been so difficult for you though :(

Reply
  • I was also diagnosed three weeks ago, at 31, and feel much the same as you!

    I never reached my potential and have had anxiety, depression and an eating disorder my whole adult life.  It’s really sad but at least we know now why we are this way.  I’m sorry that I can’t help with what comes next as I have no idea myself! I’m sorry life has been so difficult for you though :(

Children
  • It is good to finally know though isn't it.  Things just seem to be making sense now though. Looking back at the difficulties,  it just seems I would have coped better if I'd understood myself better.

    Good luck. Hope you can now get the support you needGrinGrin