This isn't really a "mummy" question as such, but I am a mum and my actions affect my son, so it kind of links ;)
I am studying an autism subject at uni at the moment and the more I am learning the more I am starting to think I may have mild autism. Has anyone been diagnosed with autism and as an adult and did the diagnosis help in any way? I am thinking if I have a diagnosis I may be able to better understand myself and get help to put assisting strategies in place. But I am also thinking I have gone 26 years without a diagnosis, is there any point getting one now?
Thank you for your input :)
10 Replies
I received an adult diagnosis :) I found the process helpful and it helped answer some questions for myself. I've had bouts of depression and it helped my psychologist get a better understanding of where I'm coming from, it also helps with goals I set myself now.
Thank you, that has been helpful. How did you go about getting a diagnosis, did you just go to your GP?
You could go to your GP for a referral. I think it's best in adult cases to have an idea of who you want to see as not many places are experienced in adults. What state are you in?
You make a valid point. I live in QLD.
Your lucky! Tony Attwoods clinic is in Queensland. Google them, I think his clinic is called minds and hearts.
Anyway they do a lot of women and girls. There will be a wait list but your probably not in a hurry. They may be able to recommend someone else.
Tony Attwood, that name rings a bell! Thank you, I shall look into it. I really appreciate your help.
He's basically a world expert on autism does a lot of talks etc, written a number if books. Good luck
My mum has always been a bit emotionally 'different', she would say such hurtful things but would not understand why I was still upset days later- to her they r just words said in anger. There has been many incidents over the years but it all came to a head when my daughter was born. My mothers distance behavior made me question her and set grounds rules and beg her to get 'help'.
She decided to go to the doctors and at the age of 54 was diagnosed with Aspergers. This diagnosis has saved our relationship as I now have more understanding of her behaviours abd also know that some things she cannot emphasis with, full stop! Additional she says that she feels relief as she know understands why she is different. I really think a diagnosis is a good thing for you and your loved ones x
Thank you, that is very interesting and reminds me of my mother. I have two autistic brothers so it is something I have always thought about. It just seems more clearer the more I am learning. I also say very hurtful things when I am angry and have difficulties with my emotions and issues communicating with others. I have always laughed it off as me being a weirdo but I am sure there is something else there. Thank you for taking the time to reply I feel I can somewhat relate to what you have typed :)
Hi there, I was in a similar position to you a few years back. As part of a prac for uni I was very involved with a lot of young children on the spectrum and with Aspergers. I pictured my childhood, where I was horrible with social skills and basically based my own assessment of myself on that one thing, I diagnosed myself with Aspergers and I didn't need anyone to confirm it.
Fast-forward to this year, my own daughter was diagnosed with ADHD. Her paediatrician informed me that ADHD is very hereditary and asked me whether anyone in our family had struggled with it at all. I again thought back to my schooling and childhood. I was always the daydreamer, and teachers always commented on the fact that I was not working to my full potential. I started doing my own research and found that ADHD is often misdiagnosed for Aspergers and vice versa. I am now in the process of being formally diagnosed with ADHD (inattentive type) and things just finally are starting to make sense to me. :)
I'm not sure if your story is similar to mine or not, but it's just another possibility I guess :) Good luck mummy xx