Should I Get Diagnosed with Autism or ADHD?

my son was recently diagnosed with Autism and while I was doing the course I found that I ticket many boxes. Including sensory issues and swimming behaviours. I also think I tick some boxes for ADHD as my mind is constantly racing and I find it hard to get to sleep as this seems to be when my brain does a download of the day. I've always managed my differences by organising everything. People often comment that I have OCD for organising, but I just do that so I don't forget and I can manage my life. I keep appointments on my phone with alarms, I use alarms for taking tablets. I work hard to remember to contact people. but I find contact over the phone frustrating and I often get upset at other people and I've been told I'm not great at articulating when I'm upset. I also feel like I have no real control over my emotions. is it worth getting diagnosed with maybe Autism or ADHD? personally I'm thinking no, just because I'm not likely to get the mental health support that I feel I need here in the UK. But some people say I should as it points out to others that I could be a little different but that's fine. I'm not sure. what do others think?

Your answer

SameeJC85

1y ago

Thanks everyone! I'm so torn about what to do. I think I'm going to do a pro con list. Tbf I never have to disclose any diagnosis to anyone unless I want to. So I could get it diagnosed for my own peace of mind and then just not tell people. But it gives me some perspective hearing others POV... so thanks x

Kastaka

1y ago

It's worth getting diagnosed ADHD as there are medication options. In general I wouldn't advise adults to get diagnosed with autism unless you need it for some kind of occupational health process, or need to prove it to yourself - there is no real support or treatment available and it does limit your options for insurance / emigration.

dolphinblues

1y ago

would you please explain what you mean about limiting options for insurance/emigration?

wise

1y ago

It's absolutely worth it! My mother will be 50 this year and it didn't even cross her mind that she could be autistic until we found out when I was like 20 that I'm autistic. It's made a monumental difference in how she both views herself and communicates with others, and it's been an honor to be with her on the journey to self-acceptance and remind her when she's really struggling that this is just autism, there's nothing wrong with her, she just has different support needs from most of her coworkers and has every right to communicate that. My partner's mother was in her early 40s when she was officially diagnosed, but it didn't surprise her because two of her four children are autistic (and at least one of them has ADHD, which no one knew until I started dating him 😂). It's ultimately your decision, but if you think you should be evaluated, I highly recommend it

dolphinblues

1y ago

You are explaining what I have been going through myself. For me, my counselor was just scratching the surface to diagnose me with autism and sensory processing disorder. I am 52, and raising my granddaughter who has sensory processing disorder, among other things. We are currently trying to get a diagnosis of autism for her. Although, for me, at my age, I don't think it will impact my professional life, it will answer a lot of questions I have and give me peace of mind. It will also help my 32 yr old sone pursue a diagnosis for himself.

BlackBonnet

1y ago

I'm in the UK, it was a long wait to get diagnosed but I'm glad I did it. I can now tell health providers (like dentists, physiotherapists etc) and they are more understanding with me. You can also apply to Access To Work to get a grant from the government for accommodations. I've also learnt so much about myself in the last year. I'm more at peace with myself.

Kingswife

1y ago

I would do testing for both. And I agree its not OCD however Autism can look like OCD quite often. Autism is often genetic as well.

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