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Am I autistic?

Stevew

Hi everyone, I’m new here, I have been reading a lot lately on autism, and it’s something I can definitely relate too, I’ve always had struggles through out my life , always felt different and awkward, I’ve been on anti depressant for a new number of years, but knew something just wasn’t right and always wondered why I feel this way. It’s only now later in life I’m seeing this and thinking my god that’s me, I haven’t been officially diagnosed, I’m now coming up to 45 , I want to speak to a GP but it’s almost impossible to see one lately because of covid, 

sorry if this sounds a bit of a mess, I’m not very good at this..

  • have a list of reasons why you think you have autism

    and if possible a list of blood relatives who have been / or suspected of being autistic /ADHD

  • in reply to moon

    Thank you , self diagnosing has been a help it’s certainly opened my eyes to a lot of issues I have 

  • in reply to ☕Tassimo ☕

    Thank you, it is hard just trying to get hold of a gp, only get as far as the receptionistRolling eyes

  • Hi Steve. Welcome - there are a lot of "late bloomers" on this forum.

    Getting a diagnosis on the NHS can take quite a while... but I found the initial self-diagnosis a huge help... now I understand why some things are difficult for me so at least I can try to work around them.

    Feel free to ask questions or just express how you feel/rant.

  • Hi Steve,

    Make an appointment with your GP and ask for a referral for an ASC (Autism Spectrum Condition) Assessment. You don't have to see them face-to-face to ask for one or for them to refer you. It's useful to make a list of all the reasons why you think you may be autistic. You don't have to go into detail; bullet point your difficulties. My GP is still behaving as if we are in lockdown and insisting on everyone booking consultations online.  I suspect this is a procedure they will fight tooth and nail to keep in place because it cuts down their workload immensely. You can use this to your advantage, however, if like me you don't like sitting facing your GP. You can type in your reasons for requesting a referral in the 'symptoms' box and ask for a referral in the 'What do you expect from us?' box.

    There is a long waiting list on the NHS, so it's good to get the ball rolling as soon as possible.

    A GP can't refuse to refer you for assessment unless they have a very good reason. Remember. They are not qualified to diagnose autism. They are merely a gatekeeper to referral for assessment.