To pursue an ASC diagnosis at 49?

[FullMoonInsomniac]

It’s fairly obvious but is it worth getting an actual diagnosis?

I’ve had some work issues (NHS) and wonder if a diagnosis would work for some protection and/or adjustments or would it be another excuse to treat me like I’m unreasonably difficult and should leave.

And by obvious I mean this isn’t a whim or a Facebook questionnaire I’ve done, I’ve worked in this area previously and have an adult daughter who was diagnosed at 13. I know.

could you please share your pros and cons?

I was diagnosed at 39 and I would say its not something I would necessarily recommend unless you have a clear outcome in mind. In my area the NHS lists got so long they are outsourcing to a private company. Great as you wait under a year, rubbish as they do the very minimum. Its very medical model, about demonstrating your deficits to meet the diagnostic criteria. With many other conditions eg SpLD you get a 'this is what you are good at' as well as a 'this is what you struggle with'. With my ASD diagnosis it was all negative and to be honest quite upsetting having to go over things I found difficult as a child. I also chose not to involve my parent, but they do usually ask for a parent or sibling's input as well to help demonstrate its been life long difficulties which can be difficult if they aren't supportive.

I initially just wanted to know and thought it would help when the time came if we had to get DS assessed. I've actually only told one person at work as I have never otherwise needed to mention it.

It sounds to me like the main problem is your workplace. Its not reasonable for anyone to only get their shifts a week in advance, and sounds absolutely reasonable to have something like noise cancelling headphones if you are in a busy and loud open plan office. I would consider whether you want the ASC assessment but definitely change jobs.

I'm curious about why you're bringing menopause into this given OP's description here:

"It wouldn’t be so much strategies for me - I’ve been masking/coping/dealing with it for 49 years."

Also curious as to why you've mentioned mental health as nothing in the OP's post indicates a mental health condition?

Go for it OP!!!
have to say your asks seem pretty reasonable, I think your workplace seems to be the problem rather than you.

What @rollthewindowsdown said

I think pursuing a diagnosis can have many benefits, whatever age. Equally, if you don’t want to, that’s also fine. It’s your life, your choice.
It might be helpful to fully clarify in your own mind why you want one and what you hope to gain. That will help you make a decision.
Best of luck with whatever you decide.

I've got the forms to fillin but have been putting it off...

Where did she say that? What a horoblr and aggressive thing to say