Getting diagnosis (adult) - yes or no

Hello,  

I am in my late 30s and considering looking into an Autism diagnosis for myself. My son has recently been diagnosed, he is 8 years old. I have suffered mental health since being a teenager although I manage it on the whole well now. I have identified many traits in myself through learning about Autism through my son.  I have also completed the NAS quiz which resulted in a score indicating "significant Autistic traits". I have spoke to my local GP practice who advised against it saying "we are all on the spectrum somewhere and as an adult there is no benefit to getting one". If I'm really honest I felt really sad about these comments as I feel getting a diagnosis will help me understand myself and accept myself more. It may also help my son which is the most important thing to me. Has anyone else felt this way or could give me advice/opinions?

Kind Regards. 

Parents
  • Thank you so much for these helpful and prompt replies. TBH I got myself upset after the GP call as I felt getting a diagnosis could potentially give me relief after all these years and support in areas I need it. I have alot of determination and get up and go but sometimes I can become so overwhelmed and burnt out which is debilitating. I was left feeling stupid, lonely and guilty. Thanks to these comments I feel much more positive about seeking a diagnosis, really appreciate it guys. My son has only been diagnosed at Christmas after like I'm sure you'll all relate to a very long wait. I've learnt alot about the condition in this time including completing courses and books to deepen my understanding. I find it a sad fact that there is still a huge stigma attached to the condition and unless your traits appear extremely obvious you aren't taken seriously or offered the right support, this has to change. x

Reply
  • Thank you so much for these helpful and prompt replies. TBH I got myself upset after the GP call as I felt getting a diagnosis could potentially give me relief after all these years and support in areas I need it. I have alot of determination and get up and go but sometimes I can become so overwhelmed and burnt out which is debilitating. I was left feeling stupid, lonely and guilty. Thanks to these comments I feel much more positive about seeking a diagnosis, really appreciate it guys. My son has only been diagnosed at Christmas after like I'm sure you'll all relate to a very long wait. I've learnt alot about the condition in this time including completing courses and books to deepen my understanding. I find it a sad fact that there is still a huge stigma attached to the condition and unless your traits appear extremely obvious you aren't taken seriously or offered the right support, this has to change. x

Children