• Replies 23 replies
  • Subscribers 91 subscribers
  • Views 3507 views
  • Users 0 members are here
Options
Related
Hints and tips
  • To quote someone's message, first select/highlight the relevant text, and then use the Quote button that appears
  • To "mention" someone, type @ followed by the start of the forum name, and choose from the list; that person will get a notification of being mentioned

Christmas is a struggle

NAS83894

Hello

I have not been diagnosed with autism, but have always felt I don't fit in and am wondering now in later life if it is worth or even possible to try and get a formal diagnosis?  What are your experiences please?  I am a scientist who has no real friendships outside of work and I find it difficult to feel part of any groups and my own family.  I am OK with one on one relationships, but I always need a time limit/exit strategy, so am wondering if this is a recognised sign?  I find Christmas hard every year since I hate family gatherings and know that I will probably upset someone at some point.  I suppose I was hoping that a formal diagnosis might make it easier to explain to people why I don't want to participate - but is that just me looking for excuses?  Is there a reliable way I could self-assess before considering whether to waste anyone's time?

Thank you for listening.

K

Parents

  • i didn't read anyone's comment but from what I read it's worth seeking an official diagnosis . I'm kawthar 19 attend city of Glasgow college . i am waiting on a diagnosis of autism rn 

  • in reply to KJ1234

    Thanks so much for all the guidance and support.  I did several of the online tests (all with high scores), but I don't think I can justify asking for an NHS referral to diagnose since I am able to work as a scientist quite naturally and it is usually only relationships with family and people I don't know that causes problems.  A private diagnosis is way beyond my means at ~£1700.  I think I may be better off just looking into tools for managing the things I struggle with or a way to explain to my family that I cannot live up to their expectations?

    I hope you all have a peaceful and stress-free Christmas.  I am planning a long walk in the rain...!

    K

  • in reply to NAS83894

    Being on the spectrum does often mean an uneven skillset. If you still want to get an NHS diagnosis the wait may be a bit long but would be worth it if you need to bring it up in future because unfortunately access to some support services is overly medicalised and requires you to prove you need them. Also for anyone you dont want or need to tell about the diagnosis you aren't legally obigated to tell anyone just because you have it (the diagnosis).

    NAS83894 said:
    I hope you all have a peaceful and stress-free Christmas.  I am planning a long walk in the rain...!

    I hope you have fun! I find there's nothing more calming than listening to the rain hitting an umbrella.

Reply Children