Really starting to feel low due to multiple gp's not believing that I may be autistic.

[Strigiformes]

Hi, I'd really appreciate hearing from others who have experienced this also. I feel too low in confidence to go for a private assessment at the moment as I worry that I'll not pass it. I strongly feel that my high anxiety is due to sensory issues and have a
relentlessly nagging feeling that I am autistic. I'm desperate for the closure that a diagnosis may bring but can't seem to get people to believe me.

Maybe you're not explaining yourself in the way the GP needs to hear.
I know - communication - irony, but you really have to make a case to present to him/her. Whatever you are requesting a referral for, you have to almost convince the GP it's a strong possibility that you have it.

Have you done the AQ and EQ tests online and taken the results to a GP when you ask for a referral?
Have you supplied any evidence of having the Triad of Impairments?
Have you looked up the lists of presentations of autism in women and seen how you scored in different sections and taken it with you?
Have you looked at sensory issues and seen how you react in comparison to an NT person in the same situation and made a case?
Do you need any adjustments at work to help you do your job?

If you are autistic, you are and if you're not, you're not, but if you need a referral, you firstly need to convince the GP that you think you could be.

Have you looked at the NICE guidelines on this? You could print them & take them along to an appointment. Or you could try seeing a counsellor privately & getting their opinion; they could then write a letter to the GP recommending assessment is required if they agree with your suspicions. This is how I got referred even though I hadn't suspected beforehand - it still took 3 GP appts to get a screening appt with a mental health practitioner before actually getting the referral.

Thanks to you both for your replies, it's much appreciated. I have done some of those things but not all. Will get to printing out all of your recommended evidence.

OP, you need to be insistent with your gp or ask to see another gp within the practice. There may be a long waiting list but you have the right to a referral for assessment. GP’s are notoriously under educated about spectrum conditions. I’m middle aged and was recently diagnosed and it was like someone turning a light on in a room where the curtains are drawn. Everything came into perspective; my life and how I am, made sense. Be firm with your GP. He/she has no right to refuse and you need to know.

Hi, yes I've definitely realised that I'll have to be quite persistent. Thanks for your reply, I'll keep on trying.