AceofPens wrote:
After some time, I'm finally at the point when I'm looking for a doctor to find out for certain if my issues stem from autism or some alternative disorder. I feel strongly that my problems are ASD linked, so I want to make sure that I go about inquiring about this the right way. I have a few questions regarding what actions I should take going forward and what to expect.
Firstly, in looking for a doctor, should I favor female doctors, since I'm a girl? I've found a doctor who specializes in ASD diagnosis, but he's male. I understand that female autism manifests differently, and I have some notion that a woman would be more attuned to these differences. I might be wrong on that count, though.
Next, is it acceptable to come out and say, "I think I might have ASD?" Or is that kind of semi-self-diagnosis looked down upon?
I'm also wondering what a diagnosis would mean at my age (18), in terms of treatment. I intend to continue with the doctor, regardless of what kind of diagnosis I receive, but I haven't any idea what kind of therapy I would receive as an adult with ASD. My body absolutely rejects medications of any sort, so I'm set against that route. Does a certain type of therapy exist for ASD adults?
I wouldn't have thought it would make any difference if you have a male or female doctor, I guess it comes down to their individual level of expertise, but if you feel more comfortable talking with a female doctor then go with that.
To declare "I think I might have ASD" gets to the point, they certainly won't hold that against you.
Once I was diagnosed as an adult, that was it, I wasn't offered any treatment although I didn't ask for any either. I was given a small list of phone numbers for support but have never called any of them because I don't use a phone. I'm not complaining, it was enough for me to just get an official diagnosis for my own peace of mind. Whether or not that diagnosis will be any of benefit to me in the future remains to be seen. At the moment I'm totally disengaged from the rest of society and I'm comfortable with that, the problems could start if they try to force me back into it.
16 Jul 2017, 1:56 pm
