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

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
  • 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

  • To prove - without a doubt - to my wife and family that it wasn’t just ADHD

    Partial my reason as well. My mum was adamant it was just ADHD.. She was so surprised when my autism was confirmed as well as the ADHD.

Reply Children
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