Waiting for outcome of my ADHD/ASD assessment

[Redonionsalad]

I went through right to choose. I had my initial assessment via video call, mostly focusing on ADHD. Then I had an in person ‘ADOS’ test, which was totally bizarre and a very odd experience.

Anyway, it’s been over a month since those, I had a phone call today booking me in for a follow up to give me my outcome result and to discuss their decision - which is booked for next Tuesday! They had nothing earlier.
They sat down for a panel to discuss earlier this week.

I first approached my GP in 2021 so it’s taken this long and I guess I’m worried that they’ll turn round and say it’s all in my head or it’s ‘just’ anxiety.

I struggle with all aspects of life and I’m unable to work because of it (I claim PIP) my life is very limited and I’m just about managing to raise my 6 year old.

One of my biggest problems is waiting for things and the unknown … so waiting until next Tuesday feels torturous.

Overthinking, catastrophising and doubting myself now…don’t know how I’ll cope if they just say I’ve got anxiety and nothing else. I know anxiety is debilitating, but I’m convinced there’s something else 😔

Just wondering if anyone has been through similar.

I hope the results of your assessments are positive. I had an autism assessment in 2022, like you I wasn't sure what they would say, but I was diagnosed with ASD, which has been helpful for me.

Thanks for your reply. I hope I am, as I feel it will be validating for me.

It’s the wait that’s causing me so much anxiety.

Hi OP

I'm really familiar with the ADOS and ADI-R which I'm guessing you would have had. I'm trained on how to deliver both. In the meeting I would ask for a breakdown of the modules and a reason for the decision.

If they decide you are not on the ASD spectrum or do not have ADHD then I would ask this question: "given that I do not reach clinical thresholds but clearly have difficulties in areas, would you be able to speculate where I might have executive functioning issues and how to access help for these?"

And don't leave the meeting without having your voice heard!

I hope the meeting goes well for you! 💐

I'm also interested to hear all about it as I've just recently submitted a Right to Choose letter myself. I'm hoping the wait won't be too long...!

I can definitely relate to your worries about being told it's "just" anxiety.

You have encouraged me op to pursue the right to choose pathway for myself - thank you.

I’ve struggled massively over the years especially in the world of work and in my interactions with people, and I am convinced I’m neurodiverse.

I really hope you get the answers and outcomes you desire

In case anyone is interested…
I got a diagnosis of combined ADHD (both inattentive and hyperactive) and autism.
I feel really strange about it - I already knew, but this is just the validation I needed. It kind of helps to explain why I’ve struggled with most things throughout my life and found everything much harder than my peers.
I am currently unable to hold down a job and I now know it’s not because I’m stupid or a failure, it’s because I’m neurodivergent.
She said I scored very highly on the ADHD section.

I'm glad you got the validation. Friends of mine have found medicating for ADHD very helpful, if that's something you might consider.

I’m glad it gives you the validation. You are not stupid or a failure. I hope this new chapter in your life brings you much more clarity OP