Got my first Assessment tomorrow - face to face

Hey Mweekie, thx for sharing your experience with us, it sounds very intense so well done for getting through it all. Sounds like you were totes awesome! It's great to hear that you found the professional you spoke with to be understandingand supportive. It's completely normal to feel a mix of emotions during such anything like this especially when discussing past relationships and personal experiences. While you're waiting for the results, I would recommend focusing on self-care and keeping yourself busy. It’s important to look after yourself mentally as well as physically and engaging in activities that you enjoy and find relaxing can help take your mind off the waiting period.

I had a couple of months wait which was so intimidating at the time but I hope it will be a lot quicker for you. Maybe you could try journaling to express yourself during this time, that was recommended to me to do, or dive into a hobby that brings you joy—whether it's painting, reading, or even spending time with your cat! Personally I think spending time with animals is the best!

Lastly remember to be kind to yourself. This is a significant time and process, and it’s okay to have moments of uncertainty. You’re taking important steps towards understanding yourself better, and that’s something to be proud of! You’ve gone through this which is the hardest part over, now just the waiting game left to play and I’m sure it will be a positive outcome in the end! Try to stay positive and take care of yourself, I hope the results bring you all that you are hoping for.

Heya. 

Firstly, many thanks for all your replies and support - I did end up taking a couple of fidget items and my little cat toy as well. 

So, if I can describe the day in one word - it would be ‘intense’. 

My appointment was at 9:30 on Wednesday and Mum and I were there by 9:20. We only had a few minutes wait before we were called into the room. 

The lady was nice and explained what she wanted from me - which was what I kind of expected. She took loads of extra notes as we were going through the questionnaire as well - so I’m taking that she was taking Mum and I seriously.

As the questions went on - even though I tried my hardest to keep eye contact with her, my eyes kept flicking back to either the table or the seat next to her as I found it easier to talk about my life that way.

When we got to the ‘Previous Relationships’ question, that was definitely tough as my breakup with my ex wasn’t pleasant and I did have to take a few minutes outside of the room for a breather - I went back into the room after Mum had finished what had happened. 

All in all, we were talking for just over 3.5 hours (longer than it should have been) and by that point I was wiped out. 

She has to talk through the answers I gave and her extra notes with her other colleagues and has said that I should have an initial answer within 2 weeks and a full report within 6 weeks - fingers crossed it won’t be that long. 

She also explained that if I don’t meet the criteria for Autism - she will help me with what other things it could be - which has made me feel more anxious because I’ve now got it in my head that if I’m not autistic - who am I? 

Hopefully she’ll come back with an answer I’m expecting - but can’t really do anything else until then. 

What do I do now?

Any suggestions for what to do whilst waiting for the results would be appreciated. 

Thanks 

Mweekie xx

Hi there,

I recently had my assessment, and like you, considered cancelling the appointment up until the actual day. However, I reminded myself that it was normal anxiety, plus I’d initiated the referral, and what’s the worst that could happen? I’d self diagnosed - hence curious re the outcome. Additionally, it took so long to get the final appointment, I knew going back to square one wasn’t an option. Plus, I’d prepped for the appointment well in advance, made a list, decided what to wear... On the day, I took along a notebook and pen, that I’d made related notes in prior, however I mainly used it to make the odd note/doodle, which always relaxes me - the pen was an ideal fidget gadget! On arrival, after a short wait, I saw a psychiatrist, who asked me about my background from childhood to adulthood. Followed by a psychologist who engaged in general everyday conversation, and direct observation. Overall, it was far less invasive than I’d expected, found it rather simplistic in approach. I asked for a break in between clinicians, glad I did, as it took around 3 hours. Just remember, that you’re in control, and ultimately it’s your choice to attend. Best of luck!

I reckon taking something to fidget with would be good.

Main thing is to try and relax and be as honest as you can, it's the one time you don't have to mask anything as they want to know the true authentic you.

Good luck, I hope it goes ok, keep us posted!!

I found the first session enjoyable, oddly, although my assessment report noted that I fidgeted incessantly and eventually set on my hands to stop it - so yes a fidget toy would be a good idea.

Make sure sure you have notes with you so you don’t forget to tell them anything important.

But they will be experienced at this and try to put you at your ease. I found it incredibly validating - being believed, being told “no actually, everyone else doesn’t have to cope with the problems you’ve described”

It was a really positive experience. Good luck!

Mweekie6852 said:

Would it be an idea to maybe take a fidget item with me so I can have something in my hands for something to keep my anxiety down?

I'd definitely suggest doing that if it will help you, along with anything else that you feel could make you feel more comfortable or better able to cope.

It's also worth keeping in mind - from one of the articles below - that:

"Reasonable adjustments can be requested to accommodate your or your child’s needs, for example, identifying communication preferences or sensory needs and adapting the environment and communication style to make the assessment more accessible." 

Mweekie6852 said:

What can I expect to be said at the appointment? 

You might find the advice here helpful:

NAS - What happens during an autism assessment

NAS - Professionals involved in an autism assessment

NAS - Criteria and tools used in an autism assessment