Published on 12, July, 2020
My daughter has been through assessments for both ASC and ADHD. Neurodiverse characteristics were identified in both assessments, but she did not reach the clinical threshold for either, so is without a diagnosis. She is struggling with her identity as she knows that she finds challenges in life that she's observed others do not. What would be the best way to support her with this? I've suggested that she could still view herself as neurodiverse and we can support her in the areas she is struggling
By way of a postscript, just a couple of quick comments on terminology:
NAS95938 said:she could still view herself as neurodiverse
This graphic explains the terminology (you can click / tap on it for a less blurry version):
Also, you titled your post: "A bit ASC and a bit ADHD"
Important clarification: I'm not personally offended or upset by this (not that that matters, except in respect of why I'm raising it). I understand what you meant by it, and I'm not trying to tell you off!
But I do just want to forewarn you - and your daughter - that, for some people who do have these diagnoses, this kind of "a bit xxxx" phraseology can feel very much like a red rag to a bull, and cause them to get upset. So it might best be avoided if taking part in, for example, a support group or if chatting to others on social media.
Perhaps a good alternative might be something like "I have some traits of autism and ADHD".
I wish you both all the best! :)
I can appreciate how awkward that outcome must have left her feeling.
That being said, regardless of whether we are deemed to sit within the neurodivergent portion of the population, or within the neurotypical one, it's still a fact that no two people are the same, neurologically speaking. Explaining that to her might help to give her some degree of comfort or reassurance.
Your daughter can also still benefit from learning more about how to cope with her particular characteristics, which the assessment process has still been very helpful in identifying.
There's likely a lot to be gained, for example, from reading educational material (including books, blogs, NAS resources, etc) that focuses on helping autistic people and those with ADHD to deal with their various difficulties and make the most of life, including:
NAS - After diagnosis
You don't mention your daughter's age, but the report's identification of certain characteristics might also be helpful in securing extra help for her at school or college, and in employment.
Amongst autistics and ADHDers, there is a big idea of 'realisation' being more important than diagnosis. I think your approach of your last sentence is the best. Support her, believe her and love her for all that she is. This will work whether she is autistic or not.
Hi, how old is your daughter?
My daughter (17) received her ASD diagnosis but didn't meet the threshold for an ADHD diagnosis this week, and also feels this is incorrect. She currently intends to push again after turning 18, although I am not sure it would be worth it really.