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
I never sought a formal autism diagnosis because it’s not like there is a medication for it, and I don’t need accommodations right now. I also know for 100% I’m autistic so it’s not like I doubt it and need proof.
Getting the ADHD diagnosis was super helpful because medication literally changed my life. I would not be able to run my own business without it.
If you end up getting diagnosed as ADHD, and you are pretty sure you are autistic, I recommend looking into AuDHD communities and content. I find that AuDHD is its own beast, and you may not 100% fit in with people that just have ADHD or are just autistic (you’ll still fit in more so than with neurotypicals).