Diagnosis

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I have realized for several years now that I meet most, if not all the criteria for Asperger's syndrome. However, I have not consulted a doctor or psychiatrist. What should I do to obtain a diagnosis?

I am a high school freshman in the U.S.

A diagnosis may not be a good idea for everyone - I, too, have known for several years that I more or less meet said criteria. My reasons for not getting a diagnosis are mainly a mistrust of the criteria, a gut feeling some of what we may think we know about Asperger's now may be changed or useless information down the road. Now not everyone with autism related conditions is going to be able to be neatly fit into categories, I understand this, but I feel in the present there are many answers still undiscovered on what really differentiates a person with Asperger's with someone who may have those behavioral type symptoms for other reasons.

I have obtained government assistance by proving disability in the past couple years, with the disability relating to anxiety and depression. If I hadn't been able to, I might want a diagnosis for possible help in future endeavors, but it's really unnecessary at this point in my life so why get one?

Other people who know more than me might be able to help you see the pros and cons of obtaining a diagnosis, which I recommend you weigh before actively seeking one. Take care, friend.

Before you seek diagnosis, you should know that it can block you from government jobs. So if you have a long term goal of joining the service, being a policeman or postal worker, etc...reconsider seeking diagnosis.

Really? Aspies not welcome? That's... that's discrimination. Apartheid.

Unless you really need to i don't think it's worth it. I mean it can help you with getting support but if you don't need i would ask yourself why you would need it.

I've known for a long time that i meet the criteria but i can also manage to cover it up very well so i'm not sure i'd want a diagnosis but the main reason i've avoided it is because of my family, they worry about me enough as it is without them knowing this.

What do your parents think? Does it cause you problems at school? If so a diagnosis may help keep in mind what the other people said about jobs and such but if its causing problems now it might be a way to get help you need.