Autism / Autism Spectrum Support Group

Autism is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder which manifests itself in markedly abnormal social interaction, communication ability, patterns of interests, and patterns of behavior. Although the specific etiology of autism is unknown, many researchers suspect that autism results from genetically mediated vulnerabilities to environmental triggers.

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Qwarkeh 04/21/2019

Hello all,

I am in my late 20s and due to various life circumstances I started suspecting that I am on the spectrum several years ago. I thought I was doing fine for the most part, but I started noticing that my sensory issues and unease in public situations are making it harder to be productive. I have also experienced symptoms of "burnout" before, mostly when I get overwhelmed with my various responsibilities, and it has gotten worse now that I'm back in college again. For the most part I have developed coping mechanisims that allow me to get by, but I am wondering if a formal diagnosis would be all that helpful. I'm in the U.S. in a bit of a backwater town, so the process would cost me both time and money that I don't have on hand right now. I am also afraid that a diagnosis would somehow make it harder for me to find employment in the future. Thank you for reading.

clayp 04/21/2019

I didn't recieve my diagnosis until the age of 31. I always knew that I felt different and didn't fit in well socially. It wasn't until I had my son and he was diagnosed at the age of 2 , did I begin to notice the overlapping similarities with my own childhood memories. Officially receiving a diagnosis of stage 1 autism answered so many questions for me. However, I found that it didn't change anything about my life. I was still the same person, now just with a label. I believe that working hard to overcome the stereotypes and pushing myself beyond my limitations have helped me the most. In regards to employment, usually medical history is confidential. I don't believe that you would be required to share that information with them.
I hope this helps!

Beryl367 04/22/2019

I guess I'm reading your question and thinking, "I don't know. Do you NEED a diagnosis for something?" It's up to you whether you pursue it. The reason I pursued a diagnosis for my son was because he needed speech and occupational therapy and of course our health insurance wouldn't cover it without a diagnosis.

As far as whether medical information is confidential, I know that it's supposed to be, and I think most people are probably respectful of that, but I would still be a little hesitant unless I needed it for something because I've met some awesome, wonderful people - and then some not so much.

Best wishes.

SoaringEagle 04/28/2019

I wanted to pursue a diagnosis for my daughter so that she could receive help & support as she navigates her path from teen to adulthood.

As an adult, would there be advantages to receiving a diagnosis? Sometimes it’s just for your peace of mind. Hope you can find your answers.

drbarney1 05/04/2019

First, find a university medical school which is doing a research project on autism where for taking a battery of tests you will get a free evaluation and diagnosis. They will pay for transportation and a place to stay for a couple of days while they give you the best most professional tests and evaluations.
Second, you do not have to tell any employer you have an autism diagnosis because autism by itself without co-morbid condition such as epilepsy or retardation is not a disease and none of the business of anyone you do not want to know about it.

Qwarkeh 05/05/2019

Thanks for the replies, everyone. Things have calmed down a bit and my mental state stabilized since I made that first post. When I have some more time I'll definitely look into medical universities doing this type of research, it may not have any immediate affect on my life but it could very well lead to something positive later on.

Sophiasmom06 09/11/2019

I feel that I am discriminated against because people don't understand the way I need to communicate. I say I am probably Asperger and that is why I have to write several pages of notes for my doctors because I cannot reliably give a verbal history to them, and they refuse to read it and I get treated disrespectfully. They think it indicates some mental problem, rather than just being a communication disability. Sometimes I think if I could prove I have this, they couldn't get away with that discrimination.

rose07042k 11/14/2020

Hi.
I am new to this group. I did the test this year and I am in my 40s and can't receive the help I need except having a case manager and a therapist but my therapist can't do much because of Insurance.. My case manager and I repeatedly told that I didn't have a diagnosis before 26 years old or is not a child so I can't get help at all. The reason why I was test is to get some help. I like in the South. There is nothing here for adults except work and a Case Manager. Sad things I can't work because I have two much medical challenges. I feel like I was where I was always was and nothing helps

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