Can Hardly Believe It....But I'm In The Process Of Diagnosis
I have no idea how to go about saying this as, many times, when I approach these things, I come off the wrong way or get misunderstood. Oh well, here goes...
I went in for an evaluation recently with an adult autism specialist (or just specialist) along with my mother. I'd always had a nagging suspicion that I may be on the spectrum, but never knew how to go about bringing it up (based on past misunderstandings). Recently, the evidence that I needed to "check it out" shoved itself in my face. I decided to take the chance, regardless of what others may think, and schedule an evaluation with the help of my mother.
I made sure to gather enough information, and include other diagnoses that previously (and may still) fit the picture (PTSD, OCD, GAD, ADHD), by means of research. I'm still positive I have ADHD though. It was also helpful to have an obsessive interest in Psychology
At the evaluation, my mom and I went over everything, and every previous diagnosis and other symptoms from other diagnoses that appeared, my entire chaotic childhood, from my unusual obsessive interests that started at age two, innocent social unawareness that got me in trouble, high IQ, etc....to the childhood traumas and OCD anxiety that developed at age twelve, nervous breakdown at seventeen - and it goes on and on.
I was careful to go over all relevant information, which I why I was sure I was with my mom. All in one hour. She was patient, and had even surprised us by mentioning problems that weren't covered by mom and I. By the end, given all the information I gave about my crazy life, I had an (additional?) informal diagnosis of the DSM-5 definition of autism spectrum disorder. She was quite positive that I had it, and her decision didn't seem changed by all of the other information. She really wanted to see me again for a two-hour diagnostic evaluation, which is scheduled for April 6th.
Finally, I am hoping that I get the proper approaches and treatments. I'm excited to get on the right path, and I've always had a feeling about having an ASD. Now I just have to prepare for the evaluation.
I've also taken many Aspie tests over the years (out of curiosity), and the RDOS test which I liked best because it counted in similar diagnoses. My scores always scored high in the Aspie range. I feel much better now, knowing I can get on the proper path to treatment and living my life with ADHD and ASD.
Any comments or similar experiences?
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