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Helloaspie
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04 Feb 2020, 1:35 pm

I relate to aspergers symptoms but reluctant to get diagnosis?



magz
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04 Feb 2020, 1:47 pm

Formal diagnosis has its pros and cons.
The simplest questions I can ask:
Would you need to pay for your diagnosis?
Would you be able to receive some accommodations or benefits based on your diagnosis?


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04 Feb 2020, 2:01 pm

Like Magz said, there are pros and cons.

The diagnostic process is neither simple nor short. In addition to the interviews, I was observed interacting with others, both in person and through a one-way glass (which felt weird). Then there were the questionnaires; most are for you, but one may go to your mother (if you tell her it's for a work-related security clearance, she may not have to know the truth). It took a few weeks for the first diagnosis ("AS") and almost six more months for the second ("PDD-NOS + PTSD"). The first one wasn't "wrong" so much as it wasn't specific enough for me, so I got a second opinion (a good idea anyway).

If you want to only self-identify, that's fine. You'll gain peace-of-mind and some insight into your past. If you want an official diagnosis, you may be able to to get some extra consideration in education, employment, and housing, depending on where you live. You may also gain some appropriate prescription medications that may make your life easier.

Personally, if you can afford it, I recommend going for an official diagnosis. Whether you do or not go that far, you might benefit by attending an autism support group in your area (or start one yourself).

(In the interest of full disclosure, I prefer the term "Self-Identify" instead of "Self-Diagnose", as I believe that only medical professionals can "diagnose", while anyone can "identify". No adverse judgement is implied or intended.)


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04 Feb 2020, 2:42 pm

Nobody is extortion you to get a diagnosis

Some diagnosis are misdiagnosis

Sometimes psychologists fail to diagnose the correct condition

Diagnosis $$$

Diagnosis might get you reasonable accommodation or government benefits. But that is not guaranteed



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04 Feb 2020, 2:46 pm

A formal diagnosis would certainly help prosecute a discrimination case -- disability lawyers need proof of condition before they can even begin asking for a trial, a settlement, or just special accommodations. Self-identification would not be sufficient for that; only a formal diagnosis would be acceptable in an American civil court.


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06 Feb 2020, 1:11 am

What makes you reluctant to seek a diagnosis? As others have said, it can be helpful for peace of mind as well as with receiving accommodations at work, school, or financially. I will admit that I used to be self-diagnosed, but, after learning a lot more about psychology, mental health and the diagnostic process, can no longer in good faith endorse conditions that haven't been evaluated by a professional. None of this is meant to encourage you to seek a diagnosis, it's just my thoughts on the matter.


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06 Feb 2020, 4:55 am

Helloaspie wrote:
I relate to aspergers symptoms but reluctant to get diagnosis?


From your other posts, is the reluctance based on a fear?

Like others suggested in your previous threads there can be a stigma to face if you share the information about a diagnosis. The UK seems to be a tough climate for people who have disabilities that impact significantly on their functioning.
Surely though, starting an autism group would expose you to stigma in the same way?