Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi everyone. I'm new here, first post. So firstly, hello!
I'm 37 years old and I finally decided to seek assessment for both Autism and ADHD, as quite frankly I'm exhausted and have reached a point in life where I'm wanting some answers/certainty about why I'm different to others around me. That and I'm tired of pretending/masking to fit in all the time.
My GP agreed to refer me for both and I've completed the pre-assessment screening tools and forms. My mum has done all the ones for childhood information gathering too.
I have a date for the ADHD assessment (31st July) and I'm still waiting for the Autism assessment appointment.
At this point now, where I'm waiting for the final appointments, I'm really struggling. The pre-assessment forms really made me focus in on my traits which lead to 4 weeks of hyperfocus on ADHD and ASD which has been exhausting and probably quite unhealthy? But also, it made me revisit childhood trauma and various issues which I'd normally prefer not to think about.
I feel like I've bared my soul to an unknown stranger and now I'm left here feeling vulnerable and just waiting. The not knowing if I'll be diagnosed either way is driving me to despair.
Anyone else in this position/been there? Any advice to help me while I wait?
Just to update...all parts of the assessment process are complete. I'm officially Autistic! I also have ADHD so I guess I'm AuDHD?
It's still quite new/fresh, so I'm currently working through the different emotions that come with the diagnosis and also the relief of the assessment process being over.
You'll likely see me on other parts of this forum from time to time, now that I don't feel an imposter for being here.
Congratulations on your diagnoses!
In case you haven't seen it, you might find the advice here helpful (including "How will I feel after receiving an autism diagnosis"):
After Diagnosis
Oh thank you. No I hadn't seen that so I'll take a look. Thanks very much :-)