Feeling lost..

[Nelly44]

We find out tomorrow the outcome of DS7 autism assessment. I feel like I've spent years arguing why he doesn't have a diagnosis, then I started to see him differently and could see more difficulties as he was getting older.. now we're nearly there.

What happens next?

Has anyone else felt like you've fought systems for so long you don't know what you're fighting for anymore?

I'm expecting him to be given a diagnosis but I find it so emotional, can't really explain why.

Anyone else been lost and turned into an emotional wreck?!

What happens next depends on your area. In some areas, DC are diagnosed and promptly discharged. In other areas, there is a limited amount of support. DC may be referred on, e.g. to SALT or OT if necessary. Or you may be signposted to local support services. Or to parenting courses such as early birds plus (not all find these helpful and when they do, it can often be about meeting other parents).

Maybe you're feeling so emotional because you feel like you're finally going to get validation for all the fighting and stress. Maybe it will finally feel like someone is finally recognising and acknowledging everything you and DS have been through. And also, maybe it feels like getting a diagnosis is the point of no return - before it's confirmed there's still a slither of chance that he's not ASC and it's all just some elaborate hoax. A huge mix of emotions that have all gone through my head at some point.