Hoping for some advice, can’t talk to anyone as I’m so upset and overwhelmed and have no idea where to turn! HV picked up on possibility of ASD in my DD when she was 16 months old. To cut to the chase, I have accepted that my baby probably has ASD but because she is so young I was hoping that she may progress and end up high functioning. I have no experience and didn’t have much knowledge of the condition or procedures etc. Anyway after HV referral we got the paediatrician appointment last week after a 6 month wait (which I didn’t mind as she’s so young and was hoping for progression). I was basically told she is displaying so many strong traits so young, that she is in his opinion autistic with possible other learning disabilities, and sensory issues (don’t know what this means). What could the other learning disabilities be? I was so shocked and upset that it has taken me almost a week to process things and I just don’t know where to turn! What do I do now? Do I just wait to be contacted by the teams she’s been referred to? He said it can take 2 years for a formal diagnosis, she is already with SALT, OT waiting list is years apparently! I just don’t know what to do! He said she would most likely need to go to special school and told me to apply for DLA! I am just so lost and so upset and don’t know where to turn. With no formal diagnosis I don’t see much for a 22 month old as she seems to be so young. Also what are genetic tests for and what do they show if anything? Any advice would be so appreciated. X