Another Newbie Thread

So as the title says, this is another newbie thread. I’m Anthony and it’s looking increasingly likely that I am on the spectrum. I’m working with a specialist at the moment and all the screening tools are pointing towards an aspergersesque outcome. It’s been a long journey getting thus far. I just wish it came sooner because it’s been quite damaging for me.

My traits have been problematic, especially on the social front - I pretty much redefine the term ‘socially awkward’... To be honest it’s quite a big step me posting on here! 

I don’t really know what else I can say... other than I’m not showing symptoms of covid-19, so this post isn’t contagious. So feel free to ask questions... I’m better at answering questions than I am trying to work out what to write!

  • See I am similar in that sense but I have this odd imbalance between the desire to be sociable and the inability to do it well :-/ I think a lot of my past issues derive from my social situation so I am keen to turn it around but it’s a tall order :(

  • Traditionally I have been involved in church which gave me some social. I don't need a lot. So even a wave or brief word with someone while I'm out walking my dog helps. I also have a diary on another forum around money management. Typically I get on best with people I work with. Long term friendships I tend to 'fail' at as I forget to follow up. I hate group socials unless I have a role

  • Yeah I’ll get there... believe it or not I was originally referred for assessment in 2014/15 then circumstances changed, then there wasn’t access where I was to the services etc etc but were headed in the right direction now and all screening is thus far basically pointing to what I was told way back at the start of this journey that I’m almost certainly got Aspergers. How do you deal with the social issues? That’s what’s plagued my life the most.

  • It took me 20 months to get the GP to agree to refer me - but then only took 4 months to get diagnosed. Got there in the end. I struggle with real world friendships and relationships too - although I am married with kids - but put that down to my husband being potentially ADHD and possibly an undiagnosed Aspie

  • Thanks Trog :) (see I read your ice breaker!)... I’m hoping things work out for the better, I could do with a bit of luck!

  • Welcome, Anthony!

    Posting on autism forums was a big step for me too at the time - I wish now that I hadn't waited until I was formally diagnosed, as it's been better "therapy" than anything the "experts" ever provided in the decades prior to that. They're a really friendly bunch around here, and always generous with their support and advice. I hope you find it as beneficial as I have over the last few years.

    Best wishes.

  • Hi :) I am a bit of a history geek, love aviation and music also. How about yourself?

  • welcome antony .

    what are youre hobbies ?

  • short description is "its patchy" one area has more money than others to do diagnosis. I am lucky I am in a good patch. in UK in general it takes approximately 2 year wait from doctor referring you to getting a diagnosis. (UK).

  • You are very welcome :)

  • Thanks guys. 

    TaRa: There are screening tools such as questionnaires and tasks which can be scored and collated to help a diognostican understand your traits in a quantifiable manner. These include the AQ, EQ, developmental history, social communication questionnaire etc.

  • Hi :-)

    I'm new as well and I have one question that may be weird... What is the screening process in your country like? I'm asking because I got diagnosed without a screening process. I saw a therapist for anxiety and depression for almost a year and got diagnosed after I managed to, finally, get out all my issues in a coherent manner. I'm not sure if I should undergo "proper screening"...

  • Welcome, Anthony!

    Feel free to check the website. There are contact details for support.