Published on 12, July, 2020
I had never heard of autism until my nephew was diagnosed around 6 years ago. I started researching and found I have a lot of the social problems associated with autism. I done a few online assessments and all of them said im on the spectrum. I spoke to my GP and he said it is very likely that i am autistic but he wouldn't want to label me. I have a good job and im in a long term relationship but i know that something is wrong and have always felt different. Im not stupid but my social IQ is low and it bothers me everyday. How will i go about trying to get a diagnosis?
I didn't get my diagnosis until I was 40.
I asked the doctor to refer me to a specialist after showing him the Cambridge online assessment form. 1st time they said I might be, but then managed to get a second assessment which stated there was no 'might' about it. If there is a local charity dealing with autism I suggest you approach them for advice.
For me the proper assessment was emotionally painful, I didn't realise how many coping mechanisms I used to use to hide my social inabilities. Once you have a diagnosis there is no going back, and no magic pill. Took some time, with a number of setbacks to get in tune with my Aspergers.
Did you find the diagnosis helped you? Thanks for your reply
You have to think clearly whether it would help you to have a diagnosis on your medical records or whether you would rather it was something you kept to yourself and family
What negative effects could a diagnosis have?
Medical reocrds is not a problem I'm aware of. I tell medical staff straight away as I'm, like some other with ASC, who have a random tolerance to pain, joys of getting injured from the milder sides of extreme sports.