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Getting a diagnosis asa a woman who masks by default

Cat

Does anyone who masks most of the time have any experience of getting a diagnosis? 

My daughter was diagnosed 5 years ago and 2 psychologists at the time suggested that I’m also autistic  Since then, I’ve read loads and realised that I am, which makes sense to my husband and family too. I now want to get a formal diagnosis but am worried that I’m so used to masking and relying on scripts and with anyone not immediate family, that whoever assesses me will miss it. Im 51 and a woman who works as a journalist so I’m used to talking to strangers and have developed all sort of strategies for hiding who I really am.

I’m just worried I’ll be told I don’t present as autistic so am wondering how to get an assessment with someone who understands and can see beyond sophisticated masking techniques that I’ve developed over decades. 

thanks 

Parents

  • This is a common worry because we, as women on the spectrum, usually mask more than men do. As a general rule, any professional worth their salt will understand this and will be looking beyond the outer shell. Are you looking to go through the NHS or private? If you decide on the private route, the Lorna Wing Centre are known for their knowledge of women on the spectrum. The NHS route is more of a lottery but more and more professionals are now  understanding the differences in how the sexes present (in general). Have you read Odd Girl Out by Laura James? She's a journalist who was diagnosed in her early 40's, and she masked well. Having a career and seemingly being capable means nothing. They'll dig deep, very deep. 

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  • This is a common worry because we, as women on the spectrum, usually mask more than men do. As a general rule, any professional worth their salt will understand this and will be looking beyond the outer shell. Are you looking to go through the NHS or private? If you decide on the private route, the Lorna Wing Centre are known for their knowledge of women on the spectrum. The NHS route is more of a lottery but more and more professionals are now  understanding the differences in how the sexes present (in general). Have you read Odd Girl Out by Laura James? She's a journalist who was diagnosed in her early 40's, and she masked well. Having a career and seemingly being capable means nothing. They'll dig deep, very deep. 

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