Adult Diagnosis, NHS

I'm 22 and waiting for my Assessment. So, yes, I totally sympathise. I confided in my GP who was treating me for depression, she'd seen me at my lowest point (hadn't gone to the doctors in years even if I probably needed to).  I didn't have a large barrier because she knew that my troubles were impacting my life (hampering employment, educational attainment). All she asked was 'why do I believe that?' and I provided a pre-written page of all the traits/issues I have that are associated with ASD and comorbid disorders. My doctor didn't know the adult process, but she researched it and sent off my referral that week, and I know from talking with others I had a remarkably pleasant experience with that.

Please try another doctor, and go with your written list of reasons. Explain how it is impacting your ability to function in day to day life. That a diagnosis would provide you the opportunity to access support that could help you to be productive in employment or education. 

I believe from reading that you are entitled to an assessment (even if they must refer you to a Adult Autism Assessment team outside of your area). Have you checked your GP surgery website and looked at the specialties of each doctor? Maybe one might have better background that makes them more understanding. With my surgery, we are not assigned to a specific Dr, though, we can request an appointment with a specific doctor for non-emergency appointments. I hope you have this option as well. 

Don't give up! All an official diagnosis will do is allow me to access a bit of extra support when I require it. It'll help me be more comfortable with myself. Best of wishes! Don't let them discourage you from getting answers. 

I'm 22 and waiting for my Assessment. So, yes, I totally sympathise. I confided in my GP who was treating me for depression, she'd seen me at my lowest point (hadn't gone to the doctors in years even if I probably needed to).  I didn't have a large barrier because she knew that my troubles were impacting my life (hampering employment, educational attainment). All she asked was 'why do I believe that?' and I provided a pre-written page of all the traits/issues I have that are associated with ASD and comorbid disorders. My doctor didn't know the adult process, but she researched it and sent off my referral that week, and I know from talking with others I had a remarkably pleasant experience with that.

Please try another doctor, and go with your written list of reasons. Explain how it is impacting your ability to function in day to day life. That a diagnosis would provide you the opportunity to access support that could help you to be productive in employment or education. 

I believe from reading that you are entitled to an assessment (even if they must refer you to a Adult Autism Assessment team outside of your area). Have you checked your GP surgery website and looked at the specialties of each doctor? Maybe one might have better background that makes them more understanding. With my surgery, we are not assigned to a specific Dr, though, we can request an appointment with a specific doctor for non-emergency appointments. I hope you have this option as well. 

Don't give up! All an official diagnosis will do is allow me to access a bit of extra support when I require it. It'll help me be more comfortable with myself. Best of wishes! Don't let them discourage you from getting answers.