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Scared of going for a diagnosis

Alice

Hi All,

I'm new to community and looking for general support and advise...

I have been slowly coming to realisation that I'm likely Autistic and it has taken a lot of time piecing things together to come to this point.

The issue I'm now having is going for a diagnosis scares me silly. I worry about not being authentic and it all being in my head. Being a woman and learning to mask to survive to a level that I'm not even aware of scares me that I might not get the diagnosis. Having no-one from my childhood years that can provide information, very little of my own memory as a child and evidence as a child also means I worry I can't get diagnosis.  

These doubts stop my going ahead as it become too overwhelming for me, but I also need help to then start the unmasking process and get help getting to know people. I feel quite lonely at the moment and don't really have friends or family I can open up to.

Bit of a ramble above, but looking to see have others had this same experience of emotions and feeling of the process? Some confirmation from others of similar experiences to my own could really help alleviate the anxiety.

Also, any advise on your experience as a woman going through process would be gladly received.

Thank, Alice

Parents

  • Hi Alice! I was in a similar situation a few months ago and am now formally diagnosed. I can definitely understand the imposter syndrome feeling, just know if you are relating to the symptoms of autism and are struggling it is always worth getting referred. The process (for me personally) was very smooth, come ready with preparation on how you think you fit the criteria and just be open and honest. The clinicians were all very helpful and kind, and no one is here to judge. I think that getting a diagnosis can help you understand yourself better and get adjustments in daily life to help you! Best of luck in whatever you choose to do

Reply

  • Hi Alice! I was in a similar situation a few months ago and am now formally diagnosed. I can definitely understand the imposter syndrome feeling, just know if you are relating to the symptoms of autism and are struggling it is always worth getting referred. The process (for me personally) was very smooth, come ready with preparation on how you think you fit the criteria and just be open and honest. The clinicians were all very helpful and kind, and no one is here to judge. I think that getting a diagnosis can help you understand yourself better and get adjustments in daily life to help you! Best of luck in whatever you choose to do

Children
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