CP and potentially undiagnosed autism or mental health in adulthood

Frank2019

looking to find out how to get a diagnosis in adulthood on possible CP “side effects” 

- mild left hemi cp from birth
- highly intelligent but can’t always feel feelings: how do you know you like certain colours, are thoughts just made up on the spot, is love an active feeling or just not disliking someone and building up a relationship or is there a physical sensation
- moro reflex - I jump like hell 
- apparently I have extreme empathy for others but don’t understand that’s why I’m reacting the way I am
- don’t keep many close personal friends 
- struggle to keep up several intense relationships/ friendships at once 
- don’t always “understand” why others can’t understand or don’t learn as quickly 
- very tired all time/ insomnia/ disturbed sleep since birth
- gift of the gap / persuasive/ manipulative (very good sales manager): chameleon personality on demand when needed but not for sustainable periods 

How do you find out if it’s normal or a CP thing? I’ve definitely had some sort of depression as a kid but it’s was put down to being an extra aware or “woke” kid / feminist etc etc - but do I have something else?

21stCenturyFemale

Hi @Frank2019

Are you talking about Cerebal Palsy?

Anyway, you should definitely contact an Autism organisation for the symptoms you listed that sound as if they fit in with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. They can then refer you for the additional issues - or you can save time by asking your GP to get you tested for the other issues. Good luck!

Autism Helpline - Monday: Thursday 10am-4pm and Friday 9am-3pm

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You can also contact the Autism Helpline via online enquiry forms.

If you would like to email the Supporter Care team, please contact the team via supportercare@nas.org.uk

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Our Autism Helpline provides confidential expert advice and support on autism for autistic people, their families and friends. 

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thespiceman

Hello @Frank2019 Pleased to meet you welcome.

Thank you for joining and sharing.

I am one of the team of community champions. We guide, advise and help new members who join the forum.

Sorry to hear this. I am afraid we are not medical professionals.  I would always advise speak to your GP.

They can advise and offer support to your health conditions.  Signposting and diagnosing.

Hope that helps you.

Please take care.

@thespiceman

Richard_Scope

Hi @Frank2019
Good to meet you and thanks for posting. I live with CP too. There has been a limited study undertaken that suggests a higher instance of depression and anxiety in adults with CP. I will include the link here
Moro or startle reflex is common amongst people with all types of CP. The rest of the experiences that you describe are not necessarily 'side effects' of living with CP. I would recommend that you make an appointment with your GP to discuss your concerns.
I would be really happy to talk further with you about my experiences.

Richard_Scope

Hi @Frank2019
How are you?

Chloe_Alumni

Hi @Frank2019 and a very warm welcome to the community! I too have CP and can certainly relate to the heightened startle reflex!