Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi there,
Apologies if this has been covered already - I figure its not a too unfamiliar exception that some additional views couldn't hurt. Don't feel obliged to answer all of the questions. TIA
Getting to the point - I am writing to see if any ND/Autistic folks have been able to use something like an advocate for when you want to visit the GP, arrange appointments?
First Question: I am recently late diagnosed Autistic womxn, and so unsure what support is available. Unsure if it is better to try and recruit a friend as a advocate while visiting GP. (Not entirely sure how possible that will be for me.)
Personally, I struggle just to book an appointment, probably based off of years of painful interactions and dismissals, that either felt like I was being gaslit about potential issues, or like I was trying to fit a square peg in a round hole. (couldn't think of a better analogy.
One of the last experiences I had, the GP said I needed to forget about having previously been diagnosed a Hormonal Disorder in relation to pelvic pain- despite it being something that can develop into further complications if untreated...
I know this isn't an uncommon experience, but it's got to the point I feel I have too many potential issue's I should visit the GP about, I do not know where to start.
Things around not breathing well, also loss of smell, (followed by appetite for around a year)
Severe fatigue
Constantly feeling unwell
To me, if feels it makes sense to mention these things together, but its possible, because I have scripted beforehand, I do not feel I have said all I needed to say, and get caught off gaurd by random questions from the GP.
Second Question: How can I, as a younger woman with a mostly disguised presentation of Autism, advocate for myself, or speak to the surgery about this issue, as I know as I get older, it could be even more important. - It took me 2-3 years to build up the courage to suggest to a GP I think I am Autistic, just as an idea of where I am at.
Last question: What solutions, techniques have other folks tried with some success?
Thank you in advance for reading.
Crys
Crys said:First Question: I am recently late diagnosed Autistic womxn, and so unsure what support is available. Unsure if it is better to try and recruit a friend as a advocate while visiting GP.
Support is very limited. This site is possibly one of the best resources you will find (the search button on the top right lets you search previous discussions) although there may be local autism support groups in your area. If you are ok to let us know the town/city nearest you we can let you know what is there.
As for going to the GP, I would recommend writing out a letter explaining your symptoms and requirements - keep it as brief as practical while including the info (dates/ durations / severity are important) so you don't need to answer many of the questions from your GP.
Start the letter by saying you have issues in interacting and answering questions which is why you gave this letter to him with all the info you have. They will probably still ask more questions but there should be few. It is probably worth saving your energy for these that hoping you have explained enough to your friend to answer on your behalf.
Crys said:Second Question: How can I, as a younger woman with a mostly disguised presentation of Autism, advocate for myself,
Inform them in writing about your selective mutism and why you need to write to them with the details rather than face a grilling when you cannot be sure to advocate successfully.
If you are systematic and thorough in explaining everything to them about the reason for the visit then it will be more effective than them trying to tease the info out, so they are likely to accept this.