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Where do I get a diagnosis?

stranger

On Friday, I phoned CMHT; as they'd promised to call back when I phoned them 2 weeks ago. I was given the same rubbish again about how they can't give me any access to my medical notes regarding this. Yet, anyone else (well, almost) can request this information about me.

My ex-psychiatrist phoned me. He finally told me that he only screened me and didn't fully assess me. I am not happy that I was never told this. Those appointments were a waste of time. I was told nothing that my parents and I do not already know.

I have been told that he doesn't do the full assessment and has no idea who does it.

Can someone tell me where I can out who, where and how I tested and diagnosed in full? I can't find on NAS which states that one of the services listed diagnoses adults (it seems to just be about children) in Plymouth.

I know there's services in Southampton and Cambridge; but was wondering if there's anything closer.

  • It all sounds very difficult for you...it doesn't sound like your so called 'support' from the 'health professionals' is any good at all. 

    Have you tried your nearest NAS service? they might be able to help you...I got in touch with mine and I'm meeting someone from there on Saturday to see if they can support me, with diagnosis and general support in day to day things.  If you look under 'our services' it might come up with something in your area - you've probably already tried that - or ring the NAS helpline to ask for their advice.

  • I am at open university and they are aware of the problem. Because it's supposedly medical and not educational, they won't help me at all.

    I've already made a complaint regarding my psychiatrist. PALS basically took their side and said they did nothing wrong. Um, they lied to me and messed me about.

    The GP who did refer me, has done what his trainer (he's a student) has told him to do. The other GP just told me no - she claims that I don't need a diagnosis.

    I know that if I had a diagnosis and the support I need, I would not have half the issues I do.

  • Hi stranger,

    I don't know if this is any help, but I had a psychiatrist who I felt was not treating me fairly...I don't normally camplain, but I felt really strongly about it so I got in touch with PALS - patient advice and liason services - linked to the hospital for NHS and they helped me loads...they met with me then organised a meeting with me, her and my psychiatrist, and I was able to say what I needed to but with the support of her and she helped us talk about the issue.

    It was really worth it as I told her she was 'treating me like a pile of *** on the floor!' and after that meeting, she was so much nicer to me and was actually very supportive after that....she pushed for me to get some therapy and I now attend a group which helps me alot.

    I would advise anyone with a problem with a health professional to get PALS advice, they might be able to help you talk to the right people to help you with your case.  I can't say it was easy to get the courage up, but this is so important, it would be worth it.

    Best wishes

     

     

  • Dear Stranger

    There should be a student services council (or some similar word) at your uni who will take up your case. There might actually be a medical centre at your uni who you could register with instead of your GP once the student body have been made aware of your problem. It would seem that because of the wording you've used that things are quite serious and so you should also think about making a complaint about how your psychiatrist and GP have messed you about. That avenue might be very exhausting but it sounds like they haven't been fair to you.

    It might be difficult but this forum is very understanding. Do you want to share what the problem at uni is? Don't feel under any pressure but, you never know, someone might be able to offer a clearer solution if they had a clearer idea.

    Good luck!

  • There are no services at all for adults in Plymouth. There's only help in the voluntary sector and for children.

    So, it seems (please excuse my language) that I am fucked. I need a diagnosis so I can actually get help and get on with my life. If I was a child, I would get a diagnosis and get help. Why is there nothing as an adult?

  • I am in urgent need of help now:

    Uni won't help me and have told me I have to identify my own needs. I havbe no idea what my needs are.  Without this, I am unable to continue my studies.

    I now have to convice my GP that I need a diagnosis. What do I say?

  • Thank you.

    GP has refused to refer me. She claims that the "assessment" (it was a screening) is enough. It wasn't even one hour. So, it looks like either seeing another GP who is actually willing to help, or go private.

  • Hi there,

    The Autism Services Directory shows that there are 9 diagnostic services in the South West, but unfortunately none of them are enarer to you than Dorset or Somerset: www.autism.org.uk/.../cid=80~aid=258.aspx

    However, you could also try calling the phone number on that web page, to see if a private service is nearer to you.

    Regards,

    Alex R - mod