Hiya!

So a little while ago I realised just how dysfunctional I am, in terms of executive functioning. This lead me to consider to get an ADHD diagnosis, which I am going to go through with (to hopefully see if medication helps). The reason why I believe I have ADHD is because my dad has been diagnosed and in terms of our ability to function day to day, we’re quite similar.

I have, informally, known I was autistic since I was 17 I think. My mum, some years prior, had asked a family friend who has experience diagnosing autism if I had it. She asked after my dad was formally diagnosed. Not sure why she didn’t proceed to ask for a formal diagnosis at a specialised clinic? Presumably because of the cost I would imagine.

For context, I am in Australia. I was going to seek diagnosis for autism a couple years back, but it was going to cost 3 grand. I did find some lower price clinics that cost half that, but still. That pushed me away, especially considering I already know.

My thinking now, or at least before a couple days ago, obtaining an autism diagnosis so I could get some support… but of course, what support lmao?? I am working with a psych right now, and she just accepts I know I am autistic so in that sense there’s no need.

I am wondering if there is any material benefit to getting a formal diagnosis when I already KNOW I am autistic??

-Minty

  • hoshikarakitaridia@lemmy.world
    5·
    11 hours ago

    From what I understand these are the common reasons for a diagnosis:

    • benefits in school
    • benefits in job
    • benefits when having to deal with government
    • maybe tax benefits
    • benefits for travel
    • certainty for yourself
    • certainty for your friends & family

    I was at the point where I could get a formal diagnosis for ADHD and/or for autism and I said no. I said that, because I hated the idea of not being able to survive without benefits (a weird quirk of my anxiety) and because I didn’t want the stigma in case I had to disclose it or anything.