Published on 12, July, 2020
Hello. I am 36 and after being not so subtly asked about autism by my therapist and GP on separate occasions I’ve decided to pursue a private assessment. I am feeling all over the place about it. I have heard from a few people that private assessments aren’t taken as seriously as an NHS assessment, but I really feel I can’t wait however many years for answers. I’m also scared I’m…..making it up. Some days I feel absolutely fine, not overwhelmed, no sensory issues, no stimming, nothing. I’m really scared I’m trying to convince myself I have autism. Any advice would be very welcome!
Hi Lynn
I can only tell you about my own experience - my daughter suggested that my life experience was probably an autistic one. I was quite surprised by this as I thought I was leading a typical life. I have a few habits that I thought were just habits (I now realise they're my stims ) I was married for many years and now realise that my late husband supported and enabled me to lead what looked like a "normal" life but looking back all the signs were there but I was masking to be more acceptable. Like many people I just thought autism was something that affected little boys
I knew NHS assesments took several years and I wasn't even convinced my GP would take me seriously at my age (62) I decided to press ahead with a private assessment and was diagnosed a few months later. My GP accepted my private diagnosis which is now on my medical file. Perhaps you can have a conversation with your GP about it before hand? Or perhaps check with whoever you choose to do your assesment to see if their clients have had issues?
Good luck as you push forward to get your answers
Inula
Thank you. I’m glad you got your answers and hope you have found your diagnosis a positive change.
My GP suggested autism and has agreed to write me a referral for my private assessment. I think I’m more concerned that colleagues, peers and family don’t take me seriously.
Hmmm in my experience colleagues and peers are a whole different matter. I've been identified as autistic for less than a year and haven't told many people. Those I have told seem to think it's "such a shame" and sad. Either that or they don't believe me. I think they're a bit stunned that I've appeared "normal" for so long - which I have - but at the cost of exhaustion. As your GP has agreed to an assesment it sounds like they're fully on board so they won't be surprised when they get a letter advising that you have been identified.
Thank you for taking the time to share!