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Newbie Q: does a professional diagnosis help? is it worth the stress?

MarcoPolo

A pre-disclaimer!
I understand that everyone's condition is unique and I'm sure that diagnosis has been hugely helpful to many. I'm 52 and wondering if it is worth it for me since I have got this far in life with out it so far, though the struggle is hard. I dont mean to put judgement on the diagnosis, the condition or any individual. I just don't wish to add more hassle to the complexities of life! Hoping you will understand! Thank you.


Hi,

I saw the introductions group and thought I should join in. I've been reading many of the posts and it is comforting to realise I'm not the only one that has over-sensory conditions and struggles in life. Thank you. It has made me realise I should perhaps speak up as the conversation could help others too.

I'm 52 and currently not officially diagnosed with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder). I've been having a long chat with AI on the pros and cons of getting diagnosed as I don't yet know if it would help me or just add to the stress.
In your opinion does a professional diagnosis help? is it worth the stress? Why should I or why shouldn't I go for a professional diagnosis?

A little background for reference:
I have a close and caring friend that works in mental health that has been helping me.
I score 179 on RAADS-R and similar on the other tests.
Reflecting on life it suddenly makes sense why everything has been so hard.
And when I say suddenly, I have been studying this for the last 12 months.

I have lots more to ask but I'll not spam the forum (yet!)

Thank you.

(BTW my name isn't Marco but I'm very discreet about my condition at the moment) 


Parents

  • Hi and welcome to the community.

    I'm self discovered, and have not been formally diagnosed. I realised I could be on the spectrum when I was in my mid fifties, found the AQ50 and scored 42/50. I discussed it with the GP I was seeing at the time - he had previously worked with the community mental health team, so had some knowledge of autism assessment. He asked me to send him my AQ50 results and also the results of another test - I can't remember the results of that, or which one it was - and he agreed with me, but advised that there was little point in a formal diagnosis as I wouldn't get any help because I could work.

    I then found this website and joined this forum and starting discussing it just like you are. Part of me wanted to do it, but part of me was worried about the stress of the assessment and the chance of being told "you're not autistic" because then I'd have no explanation of why I am like this. (Being told "you're not autistic" has happened to a few people who have posted on here)

    I felt part of this community as soon as I joined, and felt fully understood for the first time in my life. That was more important to me than a health care professional confirming what I already really knew. And the GP made notes on my records and said I could request a diagnosis at a later date if I started to struggle more and felt it was needed.

    Many people do feel a benefit from a formal diagnosis though, and that's perfectly valid and I support their choice. But we're all different. Whatever you decide, you are welcome here.

Reply

  • Hi and welcome to the community.

    I'm self discovered, and have not been formally diagnosed. I realised I could be on the spectrum when I was in my mid fifties, found the AQ50 and scored 42/50. I discussed it with the GP I was seeing at the time - he had previously worked with the community mental health team, so had some knowledge of autism assessment. He asked me to send him my AQ50 results and also the results of another test - I can't remember the results of that, or which one it was - and he agreed with me, but advised that there was little point in a formal diagnosis as I wouldn't get any help because I could work.

    I then found this website and joined this forum and starting discussing it just like you are. Part of me wanted to do it, but part of me was worried about the stress of the assessment and the chance of being told "you're not autistic" because then I'd have no explanation of why I am like this. (Being told "you're not autistic" has happened to a few people who have posted on here)

    I felt part of this community as soon as I joined, and felt fully understood for the first time in my life. That was more important to me than a health care professional confirming what I already really knew. And the GP made notes on my records and said I could request a diagnosis at a later date if I started to struggle more and felt it was needed.

    Many people do feel a benefit from a formal diagnosis though, and that's perfectly valid and I support their choice. But we're all different. Whatever you decide, you are welcome here.

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