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  • adult-diagnosis
  1. About Autism
  2. Diagnosis
  3. Adult Diagnosis

Adult Diagnosis

Have you been wondering, 'Am I autistic?' Here you can find information about diagnosis for adults who are – or think they are – on the autism spectrum. Remember you are not alone and we are here to support you with any advice you need. Please note that NEAS is not a diagnostic service.

What happens if I don’t agree?

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At the end of this process you may not agree with the decision, in which case you can request a second opinion.

You can do this by:

  • Going back to the GP – tell them that you are not happy with the findings and that you would like to be referred elsewhere for a second opinion.
  • Seeking a private diagnosis.

Published: 3rd November, 2015

Updated: 13th November, 2015

Author: Lisa Taylor

Related topics:
  • Adult Diagnosis
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What will happen after the assessment?

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Generally you will not be given a decision on the day, this can come sometime after. The team will make a decision to whether or not they believe you have autism. You should be given a diagnostic report which outlines the formal diagnosis and ideally how your autism affects you. Sometimes, but not always a member of the team will contact you to advise you what to do next.

Published: 3rd November, 2015

Author: Lisa Taylor

Related topics:
  • Adult Diagnosis
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What happens at the assessment?

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The Assessment process may involve many different professionals for example Psychiatrist Occupational Therapist and Speech Therapist. People in your life may be involved such as previous teachers, counsellors or parents. 

The process could involve:

  • Meetings to collect information regarding you
  • Observations of you in a variety of settings
  • Collecting reports about you from other people supporting you
  • Medical examination

Each stage of the process should be explained to you, and you should be given time to ask any questions.

You can take someone with you.

During the process diagnostic tools will be used, these are to help identify whether you have autism. One of the more common tools is The Diagnostic Instrument for Social and Communication Disorders (DISCO) you will be asked questions from your childhood about things that you did. If you can’t remember a family member can help you answer the questions.

Published: 3rd November, 2015

Updated: 13th January, 2017

Author: Lisa Taylor

Related topics:
  • Adult Diagnosis
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What can the GP do?

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At the appointment the GP may ask you about:

  • Your developmental history
  • Services you are involved with
  • Factors that are associated with an increased prevalence of autism
  • Medical history
  • Information about previous assessments

Based on the information you give and the observations made the GP may refer you for an autism assessment. 

Published: 3rd November, 2015

Updated: 13th November, 2015

Author: Lisa Taylor

Related topics:
  • Adult Diagnosis
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Are there other options other than going to the GP?

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There are many professionals and organisations that can provide private assessments for you. People sometimes opt for these as waiting times can sometimes be lengthy. Costs do vary and can be considered costly.

It’s also important to note that some local authorities may not accept the results of private diagnoses. They might insist upon an NHS diagnosis before they will provide services to you. For this reason, we suggest that you stay on the waiting list for an NHS assessment even if you also decide to go privately.

Published: 3rd November, 2015

Author: Lisa Taylor

Related topics:
  • Adult Diagnosis
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I think I have autism, what do I do?

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  • Book an appointment with your GP 
  • Make a list of all the things that make you think you have ‘autism’
  • Attend the GP appointment and request a referral for an autism assessment 
  • Attend the assessment 
  • Await the decision

Published: 3rd November, 2015

Updated: 13th November, 2015

Author: Lisa Taylor

Related topics:
  • Adult Diagnosis
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Showing 10 of 6

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  • Our sites

    Our sites

  • What is Autism?

    Autism is the word used to describe a lifelong difference in a person’s neurology. It’s very difficult to say exactly what ‘it’ is because it can’t be separated from the person.

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    What we do

    We help remove barriers to support individuals with autism and learning difficulties into employment. This new service has been designed to support both the individual, and also the employer.

  • Child Residential Care

    Child Residential Care

    We design individual programmes for each child or young person who stays in one of our residences to ensure their specific needs are met. We offer weekly, termly and 52 week residential placements.

  • What We Believe

    What We Believe

    We provide a wide – and ever growing – range of services for autistic children, young people and adults, and those with other examples of neurodiversity.

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    Creating a 'home from home' environment for autistic children and those with learning difficulties

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    Trampolining Sessions

    Our FREE trampolining lessons are open to children, young people and adults with special needs.

  • Family Workshops

    Family Workshops

    Our workshops focus on empowering parents to use their natural skills to support their children in the home environment, enabling confidence, and opening parents up to a life as part of their community.

  • Volunteering opportunities

    Volunteering opportunities

    Volunteering is all about making a difference to other people's lives. Taking time out to change things for the better can be great fun. Find out about the list of roles available and the benefits volunteering can have.

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How to donate

How to donate

By giving a donation or regular gift you are supporting the vital work we do with children, young people and their families. Read more

Donate Fundraise

Published: 6th November, 2013

Updated: 10th December, 2020

Author:

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North East Autism Society | 15 Lumley Court | Drum Industrial Estate | Chester-le-Street | County Durham | DH2 1AN

Tel: 0191 4109974 or E-mail: [email protected]

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