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undiagnosed but beginning to think I'm on the spectrum

Simmo

Hi, my name is Graham. I have struggled socially for as long as I can remember, I have depression, anxiety and low self esteem. Having listened to a radio discussion about adults with autism last week I found myself identifying with quite a few of the speakers. I am seriously considering trying to get a proper diagnosis. I took an online test which says I am moderately autistic. I am aware of the AQ10 test which GP's use for referrals. But that is 50% about an inability to "read" others. That is not where my Autistic traits are showing. Due to trust issues and being lied to from an early age I have studied people so have developed a pretty good understanding of body language, tone, facial expressions etc. Would my ability to do these things mean I am dismissed as a potential autistic person? in other areas I fit the bill, and don't want to be "missed" because some of the most universally accepted "symptoms" don't fit with me  

Parents

  • Hi Graham

    I've just joined NAS and this is only my 3rd post ever so sorry for any errors. I've been recently diagnosed and am also a nurse, so here is my input:

    - You don't necessarily need to meet any criteria to be referred. I wrote to my GP asking for a referral and gave my reasons. They did it. If you think they'll say no, just pre-empt this by asking for their reasons for refusal in writing in the letter.

    - I also worried about being too functional and maybe not having "typical" symptoms! But I didn't need to worry! ASD diagnosis is so unbelievably thorough (we are talking over 30 pages of different questionnaires) (people get diagnosed with schizophrenia with less investigation) and also they are aware that people in middle age coming for diagnosis will have learned a certain amount over the years to cope. My consultant understood that completely, she was fantastic.

    In summary I'd say not to worry too much - they look at EVERYTHIIIING in your life when assessing you, nothing will be missed believe me.

    You can then tell them all the things you specifically struggle with. Blush

  • in reply to NAS73695

    It's nice to read this wonderfully upbeat reply to Graham, I bet it has helped reassure loads of others also.

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