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Received confirmation of diagnosis today

Usagi_Tsukino

Hi

I attended the ADOS-2 and ADI-R assessments with clinical partners 2 to 3 weeks ago and received confirmation of my autism diagnosis today. I had an IEP and was in special education classes as a child. I saw psychologists, occupational therapists among other medical professionals, and social communication deficits, poor gross and fine motor skills, lack of spatial awareness, difficulties with planning and executive function as well as awareness of time and time management were identified by my teachers and the medical professionals who met me. No formal diagnosis was given at the time despite the concerns of the school and the validation of those concerns by the doctors that assessed me. I think in part due to my parents opposition to the schools suggestion that I have developmental disabilities. 

I am yet to receive my full report but I understand that it should be available to me within the next few days. It is good to be here and I would appreciate any advice that may aid me at this stage following diagnosis. 

  • Congratulations on your diagnosis.  And welcome!

    It can be a lot to assimilate.  I'd make some enquiries as to what your local support offer is.  Often there isn't much but most areas have some groups for people who are newly diagnosed or are awaiting a diagnosis which would give you the opportunity to meet other Autistic people, help you identify what your particular needs are and point you in the right direction.  You should get some pointer in your report too when you get it.  Mine ended with a list of recommendations.

  • Welcome to our community,  I offer you a few ideas from my own post-diagnosis experience. You are different, not broken, and far from alone. The company of other autistic folk may hearten you and being here is a good start. We are all individuals, just like neurotypicals are, so explore what is authentic for you. You may experience a range of emotions from relief to grief, and that's all OK. Take your time and be compassionate towards yourself. Disclosure to others is a very personal thing and you can't un-tell someone, so trust your instincts. There are some good resources out there and diagnostic reports often suggest sources. Here are a few places I have found useful; other posters will hopefully add to these:

    Books

    Unmasked by Ellie Middleton

    Unmasking Autism by Devon Price

    Self-Care for Autistic People by Megan Anna Neff

    Websites

    Autism Chrysalis

    Neurodivergent Insights

    Auticate (also on YouTube)

  • Hello Usagi-Tsukino

    Welcome to our online community! We hope you enjoy being a part of it. The NAS website has a great set of resources about how autistic people and their families may feel after a diagnosis and the support that may be available. Here is the link:

    https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/diagnosis/after-diagnosis

    All the best,

    Karin Mod