Is it worth a diagnosis

Hi,

so, brief history of me - I have a job, reasonably successful but struggle with social and relationships. I confuse what people are saying with what I think they mean, I hide in a corner or with very familiar people at any social function, I get very upset when what I think the 'rule am are get broken - lateness for example. In relationships I struggle to talk and communicate and arguments never start, I simply stop talking and try and hide. If I get pushed/pressed it makesme worse. I have one friend who I talk to every day but he knows me well and ignores or looks over some of my oddities and is always ready to switch topics or talk over my silence when needed.

what I'm trying to decide is whether there's value in a diagnosis... Reading a book recently made me think ' yes - they're describing me. Someone who finally thinks like I do' but do i need someone to confirm it or do I just work on the assumption that I am ? My job won't change, I don't need financial support, I'm high functioning ... But would it help socially and relationship wise to be able to tell people I'm a little different? Would it help me understand me better if it was confirmed ? 

Im not sure I can cope with NHS waiting lairs and a private diagnosis seems to be £2,500 ... I would just appreciate people's thoughts or if there's a cheaper option if I want a 'non-formal' diagnosis as its not like i need to convince the goverment I need support?

please - I'd appreciate the thoughts of others who have been making this journey longer than me ?

Parents
  • Former Member
    Former Member

    Firstly, have you tried the free test at http://aspergerstest.net/aq-test/ this is actually quite reliable but obviously has no official effect but I would highly recommend it. I have an official (private) diagnosis that cost me £1000 (Priory Group clinic - i.e. a reputable private company) and I also score highly on the aq test.

    I started my journey the same way as you - I read a book that described "me". However, I needed a diagnosis as work was not going well. Lots of stress and disagreements. The diagnosis has not been a magic wand and hardly anyone knows how to react if you say you are autistic. i was surprised how relieved I felt when I was told it officially and I am glad to have a diagnosis - self diagnosis works fine for some people but you have to make your own decision about whether to pursue it as it will be you that has to live with the choice you make.

Reply
  • Former Member
    Former Member

    Firstly, have you tried the free test at http://aspergerstest.net/aq-test/ this is actually quite reliable but obviously has no official effect but I would highly recommend it. I have an official (private) diagnosis that cost me £1000 (Priory Group clinic - i.e. a reputable private company) and I also score highly on the aq test.

    I started my journey the same way as you - I read a book that described "me". However, I needed a diagnosis as work was not going well. Lots of stress and disagreements. The diagnosis has not been a magic wand and hardly anyone knows how to react if you say you are autistic. i was surprised how relieved I felt when I was told it officially and I am glad to have a diagnosis - self diagnosis works fine for some people but you have to make your own decision about whether to pursue it as it will be you that has to live with the choice you make.

Children
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