Considering being diagnosed....

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Hi all.

Relatively new member here, though I have lurked for quite some time.

My 10 year old daughter has been diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome.

I am totally confident that I have it as well.

I am considering getting a formal diagnosis. Any thoughts? What benefits might it have? What are some of the downsides?

I would love to hear from those of you (particularly women) who were diagnosed later in life.
Also love to hear from those who chose not to be diagnosed - reason behind your decision?

Thanks!

I'm a 40 year old woman who was diagnosed at 37. Diagnosis opened the door to my first real friends, through my AS support group. It also opened the door to getting on disability, which I needed very much due to my difficulties in keeping a job.

It also led to better support by professionals, as I only see those with expertise in AS and they understand me.. as a rule.. I'm currently seeing an intern paid for by the autism society that is still learning!

It has helped tremendously in self-understanding and given me more of a sense of purpose with my life.

I was diagnosed at 21 - so whilst thats hardly 'late in life', I had been living independently for a while.

For me, the best thing was that i got CBT with a great psychologist who helped me tackle my long term anxiety problem... and basically helped me to function! I didn't find any 'help' was really helpful until I got the formal diagnosis and that was taken into account.

Also, I need the diagnosis so my emplyer can be aware of it and be a little bit understanding.

On the other hand, I hear there is a big issue with health insurance. If you choose to tell people it might also change their opinion of you, (you'd love to think not, but it does happen).

My 14 is on the spectrum,he's got aspergers,adhd,ocd and tourettes.
I'm sure i am on the spectrum somewhere to.
After he was diagnosed at 8 years,there's so much i have in common with all his traits etc.
I was thinking at 36 i was too old to be diagnosed but after reading further i think I will go and see what they say.

Very interesting.

I wonder what "help" is available "out there" in my very rural area. Probably not enough to warrant being diagnosed.

Has anyone regretted going for a diagnosis?

Regretted telling anyone that you have AS?