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To diagnose or not to diagnose, that is the question!

maiz450

Hello all! 

I wondered if I could please get some advice on whether to pursue a diagnosis or not. 

ever since I was a kid I’ve been ‘different’ and ‘weird’ and ‘unusual’ and I’ve always struggled socially (i learned over time how to blend in and communicate well). For some years now I’ve been debating with myself whether I should pursue a diagnosis or not. I’ve spoken with my family and they all believe I show traits. However back when I was 17 (I was having issues with social anxiety and depression) I brought up the possibility of autism with my psychiatrist (CAHMS) and I was immediately dismissed, I wasn’t even allowed time to explain why I thought this or any traits I had. The lady said to me ‘it’s not possible it’s mainly in males’. Ever since then I’ve had a doubt in my mind wether I’m just an anxious and unusual person or if there indeed is some sort of neurodivergence within me.

I’ve been researching and found there are ways to privately get an assessment. I’m now debating if it’s worth me trying. My main concern is that I’m not neurodivergent and then that will lead me to asking so many questions to why I am the way I am. 

I wondered if anyone could share their diagnosis experiences or their stories to help me decide if this is something I should pursue. 

thank you so much! (Female, 25, north east England)

Parents

  • As one doctor told me recently "If you have to ask, there's something to diagnose. It's just a case of whether or not you think it would help you to have that diagnosis."

    In your case, it sounds like it would help. It's a slog but worth it if it would give you peace of mind and tools to move forward. I'm pursuing diagnosis now in my 30s after 4 assessors in my childhood separately declaring me not autistic enough to be diagnosed (in one case, a direct quote). For me, it's worth it because I like answers and not knowing for certain is irritating.

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  • As one doctor told me recently "If you have to ask, there's something to diagnose. It's just a case of whether or not you think it would help you to have that diagnosis."

    In your case, it sounds like it would help. It's a slog but worth it if it would give you peace of mind and tools to move forward. I'm pursuing diagnosis now in my 30s after 4 assessors in my childhood separately declaring me not autistic enough to be diagnosed (in one case, a direct quote). For me, it's worth it because I like answers and not knowing for certain is irritating.

Children
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