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Getting diagnosis (adult) - yes or no

NAS77223

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. 

  • I was diagnosed at 59 and it was so very useful to me. Not materially, as I had taken early retirement and do not need much support in being retired, though had I still been working then accommodations by my employers would have helped. The benefit was through a sense of validation - I was not a person with a random collection of odd traits and difficulties, who was not good at coping with life, I was an autistic person who was doing a remarkably good job of coping with a society that was very poorly designed for me. Additionally, it allowed me to forgive myself for past failings, and explained why I experienced certain difficulties that were inexplicable beforehand.

    It also allowed me to find the autistic community and find many people similar to me.

  • 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

  • I think that's awful advice for a GP to give. Being diagnosed as an adult has helped me understand where my issues come from and it has helped unlock access to NHS services I was denied before (by my GP). I had to go private for an assessment because my GP didn't take my mental health seriously. I hope you can find a GP that meets your needs.

  • Your GP clearly has no understanding of Autism.  What an idiot!  Yes, there is a rainbow of human diversity but NO!  We are not ALL on the autistic spectrum somewhere.  Neither do autistic people stop being autistic or having differences and problems due to autism the minute they turn 18.  

    There is benefit in a diagnosis for you, if you feel that there is benefit in a diagnosis for you.  You mention your mental health.  That could be greatly improved potentially if you were to have therapies which are properly autism informed.  And, of course, just knowing who you are and why is great for anyone's well being.

    Personally, I'd ask to see another GP.