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Hi ! Is being diagnosis worth it as an adult?

Jabberwocky

Hello,

I'm 30yrs old and I'm pretty sure I've been on the spectrum since I was 18 when I first found out about it (I'm dyslexic and eye contact made my eyes water uncontrollably among other things). The problem is I'm not sure if being diagnosed is worth it? I've grown accustom to my masking and I'm generally uncomfortable but I don't understand what the benefits of being diagnosed would bring to me? I'm also worried about people finding out I'm REALLY different instead of just being odd. I'm not sure if this diagnosis would reflect poorly on me or make my life difficult?

What as this been like for you?

Parents

  • Hi there. I was diagnosed at 56, only a few months ago.

    Whether it's worth going through the process or not is a personal choice. It is stressful and if the NHS won't do it, potentially expensive.

    It also depends on whether you are coping as self identified. An ex boy-friend of mine is self-diagnosed (like minds attract, huh?) and he's happy with that. He knows who is and why and can help himself from the ASD menu of self-help techniques, but otherwise sees no benefit to a bit of paper.

    We certainly won't mind here if you are formally or self diagnosed, so your decision either way won't preclude you from jumping in and exploring your autistic identity here.

    But on the other hand if you are struggling with any aspect of your autism - yep! I would recommend a diagnostic route. Saved my life! It can secure legal protections for you and access to some services (not that there is a lot) and knowing for sure can enable and empower you to own your autistic identity and the solutions to the detriments of living in an NT world.

    As to people finding out..  well I'd suggest your GP NEEDS to know. Other than that, it's entirely at your discretion. The only people who will ever know are those YOU choose to tell.

    For me, it was totally worth it. Best thing I ever did! And I am loud and proud about it. That too is liberating me in so many ways. Whatever you choose, Good luck :-)

Reply

  • Hi there. I was diagnosed at 56, only a few months ago.

    Whether it's worth going through the process or not is a personal choice. It is stressful and if the NHS won't do it, potentially expensive.

    It also depends on whether you are coping as self identified. An ex boy-friend of mine is self-diagnosed (like minds attract, huh?) and he's happy with that. He knows who is and why and can help himself from the ASD menu of self-help techniques, but otherwise sees no benefit to a bit of paper.

    We certainly won't mind here if you are formally or self diagnosed, so your decision either way won't preclude you from jumping in and exploring your autistic identity here.

    But on the other hand if you are struggling with any aspect of your autism - yep! I would recommend a diagnostic route. Saved my life! It can secure legal protections for you and access to some services (not that there is a lot) and knowing for sure can enable and empower you to own your autistic identity and the solutions to the detriments of living in an NT world.

    As to people finding out..  well I'd suggest your GP NEEDS to know. Other than that, it's entirely at your discretion. The only people who will ever know are those YOU choose to tell.

    For me, it was totally worth it. Best thing I ever did! And I am loud and proud about it. That too is liberating me in so many ways. Whatever you choose, Good luck :-)

Children
  • in reply to Dawn

    I’m very much the same, only 7 people know that I’m autistic, self diagnosis or a formal assessment is totally up to the individual. I think I will find a final answer a big help. If a diagnosis is needed for financial support or care support then I think an individual should seek a diagnosis.