Published on 12, July, 2020
I have now been trying for close to 2 years to get a diagnosis of being on the spectrum. I spoke to a Dr for referral over the phone and was declined the assessment process for lack of evidence. I wasn’t surprised since the call with the Dr lasted about 3 minutes. I followed this up with my GP and he tried to palm me off with recommending speaking to a psychologist about my anxiety issues because he “doubted it was Autism because you have very good eye contact”. Even those he was condescending I pushed for a referral and got one. Eventually the Adult Autism Team got in contact to fill out a pre screening assessment (which I don’t feel was very in depth) and I have now been declined to progress any further despite me having a plethora of issues. I’m really starting to feel extremely low and frustrated I’m not being heard. It’s a lot to deal with right now as I’ve just lost my father on Christmas Eve. Is there anywhere I can appeal their decision? Or is there anyone I can turn to to try get a diagnosis because I really struggle work wise and holding down a job and for the last few years have became a full time parent/houseperson instead as my partner understands my struggles with working.
I have 3 siblings who are all diagnosed with ASD. And I myself have been diagnosed with Dyslexia and Dyspraxia at age 19. I am now 30 and struggling more internally than I ever have. My 7yo daughter has traits of possible ASD and ADHD. And my 3yo daughter is ongoing for the ASD assessment just now.
The NHS is very slow unfortunately. I've read time and time again how a lot of people get forgotten and the wait times can be three to five years or longer for people. Private is definitely the way to go, if you can afford it.I went with the Lorna Wing Centre and the service they provided was just amazing. They were very professional, supportive and kind, always patient and made the whole process feel so much better and easier to cope with.
If you can get with them then you definitely wouldn't regret it. I have no regrets with them at all and highly recommend them to everyone who's interested.
Hopefully if you can get diagnosed it will bring you the self knowledge and belonging feelings it's brought many others.