How to Get an Autism Assessment
Getting an autism assessment typically begins with a referral from a healthcare professional, like a GP or a Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) at a school. After the referral, you may need to wait several months for the actual appointment.
Find out how to get diagnosedWhat You Can Do While You Wait
Waiting for an assessment can be a trying period, but you don't have to sit idle. There are multiple avenues for support and preparation:
Consult Your GP
Ask about support groups or therapies that might be beneficial in the meantime.
School and College Resources
Speak to teachers or SENCO staff at your child's school, or visit the student support services at your college or university.
Workplace
If you're an adult, talk to your HR department about potential accommodations.
Local Council
A needs assessment may help you understand what community resources are available.
The Assessment Process For Children
The team assessing your child will likely:
- Discuss developmental milestones like language skills.
- Observe interactions between you and your child.
- Consult reports from healthcare providers or educational institutions.
- Conduct a physical examination and delve into the medical history.
The Assessment Process For Adults
As an adult, you can expect:
- Detailed questionnaires about your experiences and challenges.
- Consultation with someone who knew you as a child.
- Review of any medical reports or records.
Getting the Result
After the assessment, you'll receive a comprehensive report, either in person or via post.
This report will detail:
- If an autism diagnosis is applicable.
- Areas where you or your child might need support.
- Personal strengths that were noted during the assessment.
The report may contain specialised terminology; don't hesitate to ask the assessment team for clarification.
What to Do If You Disagree With the Assessment
If you find that the report doesn't resonate with your experiences or understanding, you have a few options :
Seek a Second Opinion If you disagree, a second assessment team can be consulted.
Private Assessment You have the option to go outside of the NHS for a privately funded assessment.
Bear in mind that a second opinion might yield similar results. Diagnosis is an in-depth, nuanced process, but it's essential to ensure that it resonates with your lived experience.
Newly Diagnosed with Autism
Take Your Time
An autism diagnosis can elicit a range of emotions. For some, it provides clarity and answers longstanding questions. For others, it may come as a shock.
Give yourself the space to digest this new information.
And Remember
There Is Help
A support network is out there for you.
There Is Hope
Though the present may be tough, things can improve.
You Are You
The diagnosis doesn’t change who you or your child fundamentally are.
You Don't Need A 'Cure'
Autism isn't an ailment to be 'cured' but rather a different way of experiencing the world.
You Are Strong
There are strengths as well as challenges that come with being autistic.
It's Okay To Struggle
Feeling isolated post-diagnosis is common, but there's a community ready to help.
Finding Help
Initially, a diagnosis of autism for you or your child may make you feel isolated. However, there are avenues where you can find assistance and community.
- Local support groups
- National charitable organisations
- Fellow autistics or parents sharing their experiences online
- Educational and professional environments
- Local government resources
- The medical team that diagnosed you or your child
Learn from Others' Experiences
Hearing about other people’s autism journeys can offer valuable insights. Healthtalk.org has compelling stories, or you might explore autism-focused blogs, videos, and books.
Watch for Coexisting Conditions
While autism isn’t a medical condition, many autistic people face additional health issues that may not be part of an autism evaluation.
Consult a GP for any health concerns you or your child may have, as they can guide you toward the right additional support.
Some of the conditions include:
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
This is an eating disorder that can show up alongside ASD. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID isn't driven by concerns about body image. Instead, the person may have very specific food preferences, textures they can't handle, or a deep-rooted fear of choking or vomiting.
Explore Eating DisordersAttention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
While ADHD is a separate condition with its own set of diagnostic criteria, it's not uncommon for individuals with ASD to also display symptoms of ADHD, like difficulties with attention span, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
What Is ADHD?Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety is another condition that's often reported in individuals with ASD. It can manifest as generalised anxiety, social anxiety, or specific phobias, among other forms.
Disorder Anxiety DisordersSleep Disorders
Many people with ASD experience irregular sleep patterns or insomnia. The relationship between ASD and sleep is complex and not fully understood, but it's a common co-occurring condition.
Learn More About SleepSensory Processing Disorder
This involves the brain's struggle to make sense of sensory information, affecting how a person responds to things like touch, taste, and sound. Although not everyone with ASD has sensory processing issues, there is a notable overlap.
More About The BrainBroaden Your Autism Understanding
There’s a wealth of information available; don't feel you must grasp it all immediately.
Reliable info can be accessed from :
NHS : Offering broad insights into autism, as well as practical advice.
National Autistic Society : Catering to both autistic individuals and their families.
Ambitious about Autism : Focused on young autistic people and their families.