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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
  • MarcoPolo said:
    Reflecting on life it suddenly makes sense why everything has been so hard.

    Oh yeah, my thought is that it would help. That was a big reason why I pursued a diagnosis; To make clear why I have struggled as a black sheep my whole life. I had a lot of other reasons, though:
    1. To prove - without a doubt - to my wife and family that it wasn’t just ADHD
    2. To possibly help with accommodations for work
    3. For potentially getting a diagnosis for my daughters (turns out one does have ASD/ADHD)

    So I personally believe getting a diagnosis is helpful

Reply
  • MarcoPolo said:
    Reflecting on life it suddenly makes sense why everything has been so hard.

    Oh yeah, my thought is that it would help. That was a big reason why I pursued a diagnosis; To make clear why I have struggled as a black sheep my whole life. I had a lot of other reasons, though:
    1. To prove - without a doubt - to my wife and family that it wasn’t just ADHD
    2. To possibly help with accommodations for work
    3. For potentially getting a diagnosis for my daughters (turns out one does have ASD/ADHD)

    So I personally believe getting a diagnosis is helpful

Children