Published on 12, July, 2020
He seemed quite keen to point out that having a "label" won't change anything, but ironically told me he believes my issues are due to Anxiety Disorder.
I don't really know what happens now, I forgot to ask. My anxiety levels are through the roof because a) my train was late and I was worried I'd have to have a confrontation with the surgery staff about being late, and b) I was worried about having to explain all this to a complete stranger.
I wrote a list, the GP read it and asked if I can function normally at home, so I said I can wash myself, cook food and do normal every day things. He seemed to concentrate on that more than what I was trying to explain regarding the social anxiety I have, having few friends, not liking crowded rooms/places, getting angry when plans change at the last minute, the feelings of being different or an outsider I've had for as long as I can remember (I'm 39 now), the fact i socred 41 on the AQ test, that I don't natuarally understand what my partner is upset about, the fact i mimic others behaviour to "appear normal", not liking confromtation of any form (even if I'm in the right), my extremem defensiveness at critisism, lack of sarcasm radar, not liking being teased etc etc.
He said it was up to me but thinks any test will not show any form of Aspergers or Autism. He said he's write a letter but there was a long waiting list, and with that he turned to his computer and said goodbye.
I feel physicaly sick with anxiety
Do you have another GP in the practice in that you could make the appointment and clarify if an referal has been made?
Yes he is right to warn you of a long waiting time. It does happen in time but it is long. Think my waiting time was about a year and a half. I was diagnosed at 45 just two year ago. Think I met a more empathetic audience though as it wasn't me making the request but a Psychologist. They did put on the screen Aspergers assesment because at that time I was needing sick notes for DWP and because that referal had been made they would only put on waiting for assessment. But that was good enough for the DWP then.
It can seem very frustrating when met with awkwardness. But main thing you can do is check whether the referal for an assessment has been made. I chose not to read anything about it so I could go in 'cold' to the assessments. I wasn't trying to perform to expectation. I was simply being me. It was hard waiting to be able to read something and boy I caught up after the assessments. I got what I needed.
It is a very long wait though.