Adult diagnosis of autism - any experiences

[AugustRose]

My DD (17) has finally been referred for an ASD diagnosis - later that expected as the nurse practitioner didn't do it when we saw her two months ago!

She called me after our appointment to say the referral was done but DD might not be seen before she turns 18 and if that happens they will have to refer her to CAMHS for anxiety, as there is NO diagnosis for autism in adults in Cumbria.

Is this normal across the UK or can I ask for a referral in another area if this happens? The mental health services here have been joined with Northumbria but I don't know about autism services.

Anyone with adult diagnosis experience please?

Sorry you are in this situation

My step-brother was diagnosed with Aspergers at the age of 19, he's now 30

Unfortunately he has other issues too - schizophrenia, which was diagnosed 6 years ago and adhd which was only diagnosed last year

It's important you find a mental heath team that you both get on well with

How is dd with talking about it freely?

She talks to me and did talk to the nurse practitioner. She currently has a counsellor at college sho she is comfortable with but that will end in a few weeks.

There is a well-being group attached to the GP and it was suggested she could talk to them but DD gets frustrated when all they talk about if breathing techniques as she doesn't think it works. But this is all part of her understanding herself and her limitations, she just wants someone to make it better and doesn't think the breathing/exercise will help so doesn't really try it. She also has chest pain (going through an asthma assessment too) which is most likely linked to panic attacks and she gets upset easily at the minute.

It must be down to which area you are in and funding. My DD was diagnosed with ASD at age 19 in Leeds NHS a couple of years ago. I think (but am not sure) that access to diagnosis for adults with ASD was made a requirement in about 2010. Maybe you could contact NAS for advice?

Thanks Cotton, I know Cumbria isn't great for these kind of services. I will contact NAS and ask them what we can do if she isn't seen before she turns 18. To be honest though, even if she is and does get a diagnosis there is very little support here.

No support in Leeds either! Just GP for anxiety meds. But we have found the formal diagnosis useful in accessing support at uni while it lasted, now hoping for some help finding employment.