Published on 12, July, 2020
In my area the waiting time for an assessment is about 5 years. I'm halfway through but also so burnt out and struggling to keep working, cannot afford to lose my job but I'm not formally diagnosed so I can't find any other help in my area.
Other than ending up on the psych ward, which I have been trying so hard to avoid for the last 20 years, is there any way of speeding up the wait time for an assessment? I hate that I'm even asking this question, everyone else on the list is important too but I'm really struggling with life at the moment and I need an accurate diagnosis. My GP surgery aren't taking me seriously and tell me to keep taking my depression & anxiety meds and go for a walk, try mindfulness etc. I do not know what to do.
Yeah the waiting lists aren't great, I'm in Durham and the list is around 3-5 years for a formal diagnosis.
If you find meds beneficial please keep taking them, if not discuss your options with your GP.
Mindfulness and meditation can be challenging when you're anxious or stressed but it's worth persevering with.
If you've been referred there must be a strong suggestion that you have ASD.
You can get a private diagnosis but obviously that will cost.
If you get an official diagnosis, what difference will it make, Will it make you feel any different?
Take care