Published on 12, July, 2020
I recently experienced something I thought was interesting, and thought it may be worth relaying here. A bit of background information first - I am currently awaiting a Full Assessment for ASD, and one of the things I have always had problems with is understanding verbal instruction.
A few days ago, I was speaking to somebody at my car insurance company, who was giving me information about my car policy, and I was finding it very hard to take in the facts and figures. I explained to the man in the call centre that I was having problems taking in the information, and thought he might not understand what I meant by that, so then told him with a bit of hesitation "basically I'm mildly autistic". He'd been quite helpful before I mentioned autism, but then he asked if I would like him to read out the key points of the policy so I could write them down, which I said would be very helpful indeed. He explained the various details, giving me time to write them down, so I could understand and process them, and respond appropriately. It was such a good experience for me to speak to somebody in this way, and after the call I felt very positive about having understood the information much more clearly. As I sometimes have trouble speaking in the "wrong" places in phone conversations too, I found the space that he gave me in the conversation was less stressful.
However, I must admit to feeling a bit uneasy about claiming I was "mildly autistic", not because I don't feel comfortable thinking of myself in this way - diagnosis would in fact be a comfort - but because I was claiming to be something that (at the moment at least) I'm not. Also, I've heard it said that "there's nothing mild about Autism" - because ASD means so many different things to so many on the spectrum.
If I felt overloaded with information on a phone call again, which is common for me, I'd be tempted to mention autism again, because it helped me to get sense and the relevant details from the call.
I guess what I'm asking here is should I feel at ease doing this again? I suppose it comes down to me wanting to be honest (I've been told many times that I am!).
I'd be interested to know what others think. After my realisation that I may have ASD recently, I'm now in that difficult middle ground until I get my Full Assessment.
Thanks all for your comments - I'll reply to all posts within this one reply to keep things tidy.
Longman - I did take up your suggestion and sent them feedback on my experience, which I didn't do at the time - I agree that when somebody makes an effort to understand and help those of us with difficulties, it should be commended. Public perceptions can be a problem too, and although my limited experience so far has only been positive, I'll look out for any negatives, and following on from that, will be careful who I disclose to.
Classic Codger - It's good to hear that you also had a similar experience recently, it certainly makes things much easier - but sorry to hear that the local authority aren't so helpful, hopefully they will contact you soon. When you mentioned about deserving to feel uncomfortable I was mortified, until I saw you added LMFAO - to which I can only add LOL! But I take your point about having to use their language, as a sort of bridge until people are more understanding of terms that we are more comfortable with. Thanks also regarding the comment about me waiting for a diagnosis - yes, it's going to take some time, but already in my short time on this forum, I'm getting to understanding the new me.
Recombinantsocks - regarding your comment that one is either autistic or not regardless of diagnosis, is one that I certainly understand more now. It seems there are a lot of people out there who often claim to be something they're not, which does a disservice to those who have fought their battles (like ASD individuals and their families) to prove that they are. Interestingly, your point about mentioning I believe I might be autistic is very similar to one that was mentioned in my Initial Assessment, when I asked the assessors what I should tell prospective employers (I'm not currently working). They said that I could tell an interviewer that I was going to get a Full Assessment in due course, which I will do, as I feel that honesty is best, though I will be guided by the situation. It could also make it easier for an employer to hopefully make provision for my problem with verbal instruction/training. I also take your point about me coping better after disclosure, and while the diagnosis is still some time away, I am becoming more certain that I am autistic, especially as my average AQ test score (I did it more than once) is around the 38 mark.
At least with things like World Autism Awareness Day, more and more NTs are understanding what it means to be autistic, whatever part of the spectrum one or one's children are on.
I also have trouble following verbal instructions, I've encountered many people who very rude when i asked if they can slowly tell me information. Even since high school I've had a hard time processing information, my exam results was awful. I identify as having autism although I'm yet to get a official diagnosis. I have had numerous tests during my school years where I've been diagnosed with dyspraxia and learning difficulties. My high school was really s**t, I would have excelled in school if i had been giving the right support like having a 1-1 support assistant in my lessons and wouldn't have my head kicked in on my way home from school numerous times if i had been able to go in the the base ( Base is a small building when people with special needs can go during lunch break if being outside gets to much)
I have the same problem with the verbal instructions. That is why I prefer everything in writing. That is much better for me.
Yes, I also have noticed that people are sometimes rude and not very understand.
I can say the same, if I had been giving the right support like having a 1-1 support assistant in my lessons, I would have excelled in school. I was really struggling in school.