Diagnosed today

[MeMyselfNDI]

I’m a 38yr old mum of 2 and after 6 months in process I was diagnosed as autistic today, ontop of an ADHD diagnosis a few months back. This feels life changing, Iv thought this maybe the case for over a decade but to have it confirmed is huge for me.

What happens now, any tips or guidance from people who have gone through this? It’s such a huge bit of news for me to digest but I have shared with my mum and my husband and whislt they showed interest the conversations were 5mins max and now everything else is going on as normal like nothing has changed, but for me it has.

Not sure what I’m after but my mind is whiring so worth a try here. TIA

It takes a while to get used to even if you expected it. Be gentle with yourself while you adjust.

Think carefully who you want to tell. You can't untell.

It's a big deal whether other people think so or not.

The assessment process is grueling as it focuses on deficits. That takes a while to recover from.

Thanks so much @BlackeyedSusan.

Especially the comment about disclosure and not being able to take it back!

Did they offer you the option for post diagnostic support?

Mine was a small tick on my intake form with the NHS South and West Yorkshire. It took a year for them to get round to offering me any help but it has made my life so much better.

I had around 8 sessions with an occupational therapist.

We discussed my specific sensory profile and did a follow up dyspraxia screening. I got help with benefits applications, housing support, neurodivergent friendly job agency recommendations, support navigating a late diagnosis and integrating ways to cater to my needs in a less than understanding family.

I had continuity of care as I had the same occupational therapist for every appointment.

I would contact your diagnosing provider and ask if they offer any post diagnostic support. Before I agreed to it I didn't really know what they could do for me, but having been through it I know that it is very tailored to each person.