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After diagnosis, what’s next?

Roy

I was diagnosed with autism about a month ago, I was asked if I wanted counselling but was also told that the waiting list is very long. I now have a leaflet but just seem to be at a loss as to being able to move forward.

I can see on the NHS app that my GP has received my report and a member of the clerical staff has filed it in my records. I don’t know if anyone has even read it. I thought the GP might have asked me in to discuss the future and basically how I’m getting on.

What advice has anyone else received?

Parents

  • The autism clinic where I was diagnosed last December, arranged several follow up appointments to discuss issues that came up, and to go over the challenges and strengths listed in the medical report. I found that very helpful as I had time to process things between appointments. I was referred on to NHS Autism Services for a series of follow up appointments to assess my needs, but I am still on the year long waiting list for that. I was also referred onto two organisations that can help me with some of my executive functioning difficulties, but I am procrastinating and yet to manage to make contact.

    The clinic also gave me a handout that included a list of recommended books, websites, TV programmes, podcasts and YouTube channels.

    My GP received a copy of my medical report but he hasn’t suggested anything, but perhaps he wouldn’t unless I mention it. 

    I think I have been fortunate receiving any of this, as your story Roy sadly, is all too common on this forum.

    I wonder if it might help to contact the place where you received the diagnosis and ask for more information on what might be available to help you move forward. If they can’t offer anything other than to put you on a waiting list for counselling, the only thing I can suggest is to make an appointment with your GP or look at online resources.

  • in reply to ArchaeC

    Thank you for your reply, I’m going to make an appointment to see my GP,  kindly recommended a good book, I’ve just listened to the preview as an audiobook and added it to my library.

    I used to be able to book GP appointments on the app, this function has now been removed, it’s back to the 8.30am lottery of phoning, I’m going to see if a reasonable adjustment can be put in place, telephones are my old foe. Don’t really want to explain to a receptionist why I need an appointment, someone else then triages it and decides wether I need an appointment.

    The place that diagnosed me has a long waiting list for counselling, I’m moving out of the area hopefully by Christmas so they felt it wasn’t worth me joining the waiting list. I can’t afford private counselling, I think I will see what the GP can recommend.

  • in reply to Roy

    I'm in the exact same position. There is little to no help available unless the private route is available to you. NHS waiting lists vary depending which area you are in. I also have difficulty with the 8.30 phone call of dooooooooom.

  • in reply to MrBlueFox
    MrBlueFox said:
    phone call of dooooooooom

    Isn't every phone call a "phone call of dooooooooom"? I feel your pain.

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