Son diagnosed with autism and ADHD, feeling lost about what comes next

[Lilysun]

Today, after years of wondering, my seven year old son has been diagnosed with both Autism and ADHD. I was prepared for something but hearing it confirmed has brought it home to me and I’m in pieces, but trying to hold if together.

He is a bright curious kind boy. He absolutely hates school and although they have tried interventions, his teachers don’t really understand kids of his profile. He has trouble accessing the curriculum although he’s making good progress. But my main concern is his emotional and mental health.

For those who have walked this journey - what do I do now? I’m a little bit heartbroken and a little lost because I know some aspects of life will be harder for my boy.

Anyone have experience with AuDHD? (Autism and ADHD concurrently)? I’m feeling a little alone and would appreciate perspectives from anyone who’s been here.

Hi!

My DS, also 7, was diagnosed in May with Autsim and ADHD, and also anxiety.

Take some time to digest it.

i had no doubt in my head he would get diagnosed but hearing it did break me. I cried on the way home.
but it also felt like a relief. A lot of emotions.

Does he have an EHCP? on the SEN register at school?

be kind to yourself.

Diagnosis can hit hard even if you are expecting it.

Have a look if there is any post diagnosis support locally. Although not everyone finds that helpful.

Not specifically linked to diagnosis but if you haven’t already, request a meeting with the SENCO. The school should be providing support. If they need further advice on how to provide support, they should look at bringing in outside agencies. If you want, you can request an EHCNA yourself.

Also, if you aren’t already receiving DLA for DS, apply.

You could look at your local short breaks offer.

Thank you for replying. He doesn’t have an ehcp but we’re exploring it. He is on the SEN register at school. I guess I’m just a little bewildered with everything. And I’m told even with an ehcp these days accessing extra support for children is so hard in school. It’ll take a lot of advocacy and just thinking about it is exhausting me. I believe my son also has anxiety. I just want to protect his mental health.

You may have to appeal to get a good EHCP but once you have a watertight EHCP, the provision in it must be provided and can be enforced.

Getting an EHCP is hard work can’t lie. But as pp said it has to be provided what he needs.

In regards to mental health, my son sees the school nurse for sessions, we’ve referred him for CBT.
we have put him on ADHD meds which has helped calm the anxiety abit.