Seeking (very) late diagnosis: advice please

Zipz
Zipz Online Community Member Posts: 1,484 Empowering
edited January 23 in Autism and neurodiversity

Hello Everybody,

I’ve been physically disabled with a neurological disorder since childhood. However, I’m also a very anxious person with a tendency to depression. As I’ve aged, I’ve noticed a number or traits associated with autism. In fact, my now deceased parents began to think this was something doctors had missed, particularly as I’m female.

I’m now seriously thinking or paying for a private assessment.

I’m not expecting miracles…. Or am I? A positive diagnosis would help self-acceptance and maybe self-esteem and therefore the ability to cope with life’s endless trials.

I am getting on in life. I’d be almost drawing my pension if the dashed rules hadn’t changed.

Is it worth it? Have any of you had a late/ very late diagnosis and how did it change things for you.

Thanks for any help,

Zipz

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Comments

  • Mary_Scope
    Mary_Scope Posts: 403 Scope Online Community Children and Family Specialists

    Hi @Zipz

    Unfortunately, it isn't uncommon at all that some autistic women go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for large portions of their lives but there does seem to be increasing awareness of neurodivergence in women and girls which is great!

    I know some women who have been diagnosed as adults with autism and they have said that it can be a very validating experience as it helps them understand and accept themselves more.

    However, I also know some other women who suspect they are autistic but have not had an official diagnosis for many reasons including waiting lists, cost of private assessments and they don't really think an official diagnosis would be really beneficial for them at the stage of their life they are at now as they have "managed" this far.

    It definitely seems to be a unique and personal experience and hopefully some other members who have gone through this experience themselves will be able to give you more of an insight!

  • Catherine21
    Catherine21 Posts: 3,139 Championing

    I'm 53 been diagnosed with bpd bdd and like yourself started seeing articles adhd autism and I definitely 100 percent have adhd more so autism it makes so much sense so talked to doctor filled form with gp then recieved form from adhd assessment team I'm no good at forms and didn't have much history on my childhood anyways filled forms recieved call saying 3 years wait if I had money I'd go private along time when you know this is what you have

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