Being referred

My partner is 25 and believes he has Aspergers. When he was younger a few of his teachers mentioned it to his parents but for whatever reason his parents didn't go any further with it.

He went through a few tests online and we decided to pursue it. He saw the Doctor a few weeks ago and the Dr tried putting my partner off going any further as it would effect his life for the worse (i.e career prospects would be gone, etc) - he gave my partner a questionnaire to fill out in his own time and to come back in 2 weeks. When I was told what the Dr said I was annoyed, and it definitely put my partner off going back.

After some discussions recently we filled out the questionnaire and he got 10/10, which says on the sheet he should be referred. Today he went back to the Drs and was told they would not refer him as he is too old, he needs to do it private. The Dr then decided that my Partner has depression and that's that. I am just gobsmacked, I really am. 

What options do we have? He is struggling with everyday life and I want him to be able to get the support he wants.

Parents
  • People can be diagnosed with Aspergers/autism in their 40's!! If you encounter an 'old school' doctor like the one my son had aged 3, they're reluctant to label people, often to the patient's detriment.  My son's only just been diagnosed age 16 - his nursery teacher & primary school teachers raised the issue of him being on the autistic spectrum, & I always suspected it, but his epilepsy specialist wouldn't entertain the idea whatsoever & just said my son was "eccentric".  Now he's retired the new specialist confirmed he has Aspergers - so my son's missed out on essential support & is now too anxious to go anywhere without me.

Reply
  • People can be diagnosed with Aspergers/autism in their 40's!! If you encounter an 'old school' doctor like the one my son had aged 3, they're reluctant to label people, often to the patient's detriment.  My son's only just been diagnosed age 16 - his nursery teacher & primary school teachers raised the issue of him being on the autistic spectrum, & I always suspected it, but his epilepsy specialist wouldn't entertain the idea whatsoever & just said my son was "eccentric".  Now he's retired the new specialist confirmed he has Aspergers - so my son's missed out on essential support & is now too anxious to go anywhere without me.

Children
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