How To Get An Adult Autism Diagnosis - World Autism Awareness Week 2021

In this video, I go into the steps on how to get an adult autism diagnosis and also what you should be doing before starting the adult autism assessment process. During the course of World Autism Awareness Week 2021, there will be people who think they could be on the autism spectrum. Especially after watching my video I did yesterday titled "Could You Be Autistic and Never Knew?". So this video is here to help people hopefully get an autism diagnosis to get support or to simply feel like they belong.
For those diagnosed in adulthood, can you give your advice on the adult autism assessment process? As I was diagnosed young, I haven't gone through the process myself so I would love to hear your thoughts and experience to help people get that autism diagnosis.
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ABOUT ME
Hello indie people, I'm Andy and I have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I make videos on autism from the perspective of an autistic adult. Sharing my autism experiences to help other autistic people and autism families to improve their understanding of autism.
This channel is focused on raising autism awareness & acceptance of autism. To try and change attitudes towards autism, to educate people about autism for those who are new to the autism world.
So if you are on the spectrum, know someone with autism, or are working professionally in the autism field and want to learn more about autistic people then consider subscribing and turning on the notification bell to see all future videos.
#autismdiagnosis #indieandy #autistic

[@bryanmerton5153]

Another great video! THe UK is so much further ahead then the US. I am 61 and its hard finding someone that works with adults. Autism has become my latest special interest! I was diagnosed with ADHD as a child and finding out I am autistic filled in all of the holes in my life! Thanks again your videos are so well done!

[@IndieAndy]

Aww yeah I can imagine Bryan but hopefully you can find someone that does specialise in autistic adults.

[@simplyvince1744]

Here are some additional tips for people in the US (these do vary based on what's available in your area and your personal circumstances, so take whatever works): 1. You can shop around for a doctor. You don't necessarily need a referral depending on various factors. Find someone that you think you can trust and that you think will meet your needs. 2. If you're an adult, try to find someone who is newer to their job, because they may have built less biases and have been educated more recently (and only been taught the dsm5, in a time period where there are more autistic voices in the media, etc.) 3. If you have specific questions, you can ask them before scheduling an appointment. You might be concerned about certain accommodations during an assessment, or require certain kinds of communication. You might be concerned about parents needing to be involved (because some doctors want parents/family give testimony even if you are an adult, and that isn't safe/doesn't work for some people). Ask during your phone call/email to them (and yes, if you can't handle calls, find someone who will let you email). 4. Seriously ask about cost. Do they take your insurance? Do they have a flexible payment scale for people without insurance or whose insurance they don't accept? Do they charge by the hour, by the session, or do they have set fees? Do they offer payment plans if you can't pay it all at once? An assessment can be pretty expensive, so make sure you know the numbers going in. 5. It all comes down to finding someone you are comfortable with, who will meet your needs, within the radius you are willing to drive/find transportation to. Feel free to search for the right person, don't just jump into it.

[@IndieAndy]

This is really great advice Vince, thank you for taking the time to comment this. I'm sure it'll help alot of people 😊

[@josephsells4187]

Thanks for the advice Vince! I live in the U.S myself. A therapist asked me some questions and said they would recommend me for diagnosis. Having had different therapist and counselors i can say to anyone finding someone your comfortable with that can help you with your needs is good advice.

[@bryanmerton5153]

Thank you! Great advise

[@allenkarns6312]

Don't give up!!! My LCSW/ therapist has been assisting me to get diagnosed. After more than a year tomorrow I start testing. Cost $250 for first appointment. Testing will be $3,000 total. Disability insurance won't cover any of cost. The hope is after diagnosed medicare Medicaid will pay for therapy and aid autism specific. Other than ptsd/ c-ptsd. In past was diagnosed and treated for multiple mental illness. The meds have done permit damagd, I beaver shoul have been on them. Do your own learning! I found a video 2 years ago. Trauma and autism compared to schizophrenia. As an adult with only abusive family living to talk. Getting to tomorrow testing has almost been impossible. I have even been detained and torchered by society trying to do the right thing, only stereotypes stop help from happening. Sorry, first comment ever made on you tube. Written word suck, dislexa has been said for years. In the u.s.a my little dark skin daughter has to be equal be for me or my nonverbal son can be. Both my kids half to find acceptance and equality be for I can. I diddnt accept hate in life, refused to learn it. I did learn to be a firefighter and EMT. Once accepted as equal, the ASD folks in this world can and will change this world for all in ways normal clasafied brains can't begins to extrapolate. Once we are given the acceptances and accommodations helpless disolves from our stereotypes and we get to show the world what it means to thrive and help all do the same. Just for opinions sake, autistic folk know the full puzzle, it is those that think we broken are infinity wrong. There is no part of the rainbow of humanity we can't be found. As a large balding single straight white bearded male that likes the woods more than a city, the stereo types get hateful in deadly ways. The hate groups recrute me, not knowing hate may be the only thing I have ever wanted to see ended. Keep fighting y'all. We can set the world for change. It may be my once my daughter grows up any thing tanagabl can be. Truth and fact based in science,well, the victor has always written the history. Been autistic that change this world! DSX88=E=Mc2 Neaver give up, neaver give in. Our DNA is equal and there will be better days.as soon as there is acceptances not forced conformity. We are all more able than given credit.

[@catherinedesrochers]

Your channel deserve way more subscribers ☺️. Such kindness and great content deserve to be seen by more people 😌 I don’t get the KZbin algorithm sometime

[@IndieAndy]

Aww honestly I don't get it either!! The views alone for where I'd like them to be are no where near 😭 But despite that, I just hope these videos help at the end of day.

[@catherinedesrochers]

@@IndieAndy The KZbin Algorithm is erratic and inconsistent to be honest 🤷‍♀️… I share your channel (and other that deserve more attention) every time I can. However, since I am not that big of an influencer, my impact is quite little 😅)

[@75maxdv35]

this video has made me 10x closer to considering an official diagnosis, thanks so much Andy! ooh and i'll remember to tell the GP that a guy with cuddly toys made me go!

[@IndieAndy]

Hahaha I saw your comment yesterday and just LOL'd. I'm glad that it's helped you though and by the way please know my doors is always open 👍

[@75maxdv35]

@@IndieAndy oh which comment do mean by the way? And yes when my college is over and done with I’ll hopefully start looking at receiving my diagnosis, I only have a referral at the moment since I tested positive on the autism assessment

[@IndieAndy]

Ooh it was the pokemon comment on the positive traits video ☺️ Aww right fair enough well hopefully things go well for you 👍

[@EdwardRoss]

Great advice. I got diagnosed earlier this year and I agree with the tips here: keeping notes (personally I used Google Keep) any time I realised something about myself that could be an Autistic trait (and picking up on those from places like this, Aspergers From The Inside, Yo Samdy Sam and Purple Ella) , then sending them off to the diagnostic service during the diagnostic period seemed to help. If nothing else, at least it helped me put my past experiences together to aid my own understanding of why I've been they way I have been.

[@rev.jesseabelchristianlife6693]

In the USA, Formal diagnosis of ASD, is done by a psychologist, psychiatrist, or neuropsychologist who handles adult ASD cases.

[@KaceyRenee_x]

I’m currently putting my foot in the door to get a diagnose. So far have not had a fun time. My GP totally brushed me off, but she reluctantly agreed to refer me. I went to her with information, and instead of thinking that I tried to be well inform she thought that I was researching autism as part of my degree and decided I had it. Kept asking why I thought there was something wrong with me… and that I just have anxiety. So patronising. I shutdown in front of her and she asked my mum if I’m always sensitive :)

[@whitneymason406]

I'm 30 years old and my 4 year old son was diagnosed with autism when he was 2.5. As I've been learning more about autism I realized I might be on the spectrum myself. I've been seeing a psychologist and we've had several sessions now. I'm hoping in the next week or two I'll get my diagnosis. Your videos have been very helpful during the wait!

[@nilajatulivu8678]

Are you from the UK or in the US ?

[@whitneymason406]

@@nilajatulivu8678 the US

[@warriormanmaxx8991]

@@nilajatulivu8678 - Why do you need to know what country Whitney is from??

[@chrisjb241]

This video opened up a few things for me. Thanks xx

[@josephsells4187]

Hey Andy, Thanks for today's video! The process of getting a diagnosis feels intimidating. Each time i begin a journal to prepare for the next steps i feel so exposed. But the more research i do the more i realise it may be the most helpful tool on my journey to an official diagnosis. When you go to a doctor for your physical health you tell them what your experiencing. So it only makes sense to be prepared to do the same for your mental health!

[@IndieAndy]

Yeah that's very much true Joseph! Also I think the more you prepare, the more it helps to calm the nerves about the situation. At least for me it helps.

[@josephsells4187]

@@IndieAndy Thanks Andy! After watching your videos and some other autism content creators i've realised being prepared will be important. I struggle with masking a lot. When a therapist asks "how are you?" i typically respond "oh i'm good! how are you?" It's an automatic response to hide how i'm really doing at that moment. Being prepared will definately help with the anxiety.

[@IndieAndy]

Aww yeah I get that as you don't want to say what's going on as a protective kind of thing.

[@gonnfishy2987]

ilu andy. i am already in the middle of my assessment but all these concerns you discuss are valid AF.

[@the_greatest_unicorn]

My housemate was the one to notice that I have autism. My other housemate has agreed as well. Unfortunately my mum is not educated with mental illnesses, which explains why I was never diagnosed as a child.

[@chillingwithchills2769]

I woke up at some point in my life and realised I didn't have autism. I don't know how to explain it to people, but I feel very alone these days. People have seen me change. I've got evidence that I had it, but I have no idea what to do with that information now... I feel as if I am 1st of many to awoke what I felt. I used to have extremely bad social skills... Now I can magically say anything without hesitation as if I was like this all along. I really want to show people, and I miss having people in my life that cared. I'm scared. It gets really dark in my head sometimes. I mask it with extreme sarcasm on instagram. They all think I'm crazy or something. I know I'm not. Too smart for my own good I guess. I Just need more people to wake up. More people to see me and get influenced by me. More love I guess. This is probably the nicest I can go about it without pretending to be nice. It's almost as if I've convinced myself that people will think that I never had it. I get scared of getting a a job or going out. I'm too aware. I live with my parents. I'm worried that my discovery of escaping autism will not be heard of. Few people have heard. I made my own quote up something like "if you were on the verge of death, it doesn't matter what you are or what you say, you will face the truth". It's literally impossible to explain my situation, but the irony is... I've done it. I just the recognition I guess. I have no goals really, and I don't want anyone to do me wrong. Answer if you want. Just recognise me as the 1st person to find out. I have nothing. I just want to be recognised for this 1 discovery. I work out a bit... I just want to wake up tomorrow and see if I did something amazing. There's no way I'm the only 1 that discovered this... Scared that someone will get me. Dramatic theory is that I'll get kidnapped by the government lol. It's not funny, but I just don't deserve to constantly put myself out there. Even if it's a terrible attempt. I don't really feel suicidal. I just want to stop shootings happening, teach people how to socialise who can't (yet), not be scared. I know this sounds all depressing, but I guarantee if I positively reinforced all of this, it wouldn't of worked. This is what it's like for me. I hate to be taken away or something. The right decision is so close to me. It just easy being bitter, vengeful even, but I like making fun of that. Not really focused on religion right now in my life. I mean it's nice to have religion, but it's also something that can easily be made fun of. Can anyone relate? This word is such an enigma. I can eat anything. I gained the power to be confident. Overly confident. That ego slides over me sometimes... I know some people can't actually speak, or have sensitive ears, but I'm focused on the most precious thing we all have. A voice. You can move your mouth up and down. You can make noise. Let's make some noise! Yeah I just want this recognition. I don't want to go on for too long, but this is just what I wrote on this decently viewed video with active comments about healing after a breakup. I get it's an irrelevant comment, but maybe that's the purpose of unveiling this autism. There's so many directions I can go with this. Edit : Misdiagnosed not because they told me, but because I know Edit : I'm perfectly fine with putting myself out there Edit : thinking that I'm crazy in a jokey sense I think. I mean they may think I'm autistic enough to react as if I have no control, but I do. Edit : Some of things in my past circling back to me if I got attention and recognition for this. It ain't pretty I first posted this comment on 'tips to heal after a breakup (autism related)

[@SezFrancis1]

Only got a chance to see yesterday’s video this morning but, tbh, I never thought of these tips before seeing a GP. The journal is a brilliant idea really, especially to show a doctor. I almost did that with my neurologist before I was diagnosed with epilepsy - when I experienced a seizure after my diagnosis. It is understandable to be stressful about talking to a doctor and it’s understandable to be worried since the NHS in the UK hasn’t given full training to staff to learn about autism and support autistic patients. But considering a second opinion is a great idea; I agree with that as well as autistic content creators. Great video, Andy; looking forward to watch today’s video 🙂🦋✨

[@solunasassoon]

thank you Andy. this is a lot of good information. I'm going to watch again and take notes!

[@IndieAndy]

Aww wow that's fantastic thank you 😊

[@janinemills6732]

You are providing amazingly helpful content. Thanks so much 😊

[@IndieAndy]

Ooh I'm glad it's helpful! Just to ask, what kind of videos do you think would help others?

[@janinemills6732]

I think a video on how you respond to stresses that could cause you to get overwhelmed. Spotting the signs when things are building up, and what works for you to deal with that. I have beaten myself up a lot about how I react to situations and as I realise I may actually be autistic, it's helped me accept myself a little more. Also, maybe products or tips on how you get motivated or organised. Maybe tips for finding the right job for people on the spectrum. I am lucky that I have a job that fits my needs. I am a project planner and can work from home... Perfect for me. Hope this helps 😊

[@thesincitymama]

I am certainly autistic but I only learned about autism as an adult. Can someone like me please share their opinion of the pros and cons of pursuing a diagnosis?

[@DavidJVMusic]

BAHahaha, family never paid any attention to me except when telling me "you're late, You are slow, what takes you so long," oh and "you are wrong!" My "friends" really don't pay much attention to my idiosyncrasies and I don't really have any close friends. I have dyslexia, so writing is not so good. And I have always failed at writing what someone else wants me to write. And a person telling me, "no," aggravates me, especially with no explanation or patience or kindness. Good Info ! Thanks for sharing Andy!

[@JadeDRail]

I went through the DSM-5 entry and wrote down all the traits that apply to me. I'm going to expand it with more specific results

[@elizabethcabrera12]

I was diagnosed at 4 but don't recall being evaluated or told 😅 but all my life i knew i was different and never had a sense of belonging and all my life people loved pointing out "oh you're weird, but not in a bad way" a while back in random family conversation my mom mentioned me having autism and i wasn't paying attention till i heard that and was like "what????" 🤣 But since then i been self educating myself i saw a therapist for a few sessions and mentioned how i was diagnosed at 4 and asked about being re diagnosed but I kinda felt like she looked that over 🤷 idk but i been contemplating therapy again but idk

[@Lillyluvsanime]

I've been researching and learning from people with autism diagnoses for a few years (ever since my grandma asked if I'd ever been tested for autism) and... I brought it up to my mom.... nearly a year ago, that I'm fairly certain I'm on the autism spectrum and that I want to look into diagnosis for validation as well as having opportunity for support with school and work and such (I was diagnosed ADHD in 3rd grade, so I do get 504 accommodations, but they're fairly limited and I still struggle). When I bring up autism traits she gives the fairly basic answers like, "oh, I didn't know that," or, "that's interesting," but when I've spoken about looking into diagnosis the couple times I've brought it up she still says, "I don't think you're autistic, I think that's just you," and it's har to explain that, "yes, it's just me. Me, my autistic self." At this point I'm self-diagnosed, apart from struggling with imposter syndrome from time-to-time, I am VERY certain that I'm autistic. I just don't feel a whole lot of support from my mom on this journey, my step-dad thinks it's a good idea to look into and recommends getting a second opinion after the first evaluation (whenever it is that I'm able to do that), my paternal grandmother is the one that got me to start looking into this and she's supportive, my dad doesn't know (he's... weird about some mental health things, I'm not sure he would take the information seriously without having official diagnosis first, and my older cousin who is practically my sister and has a younger brother who was diagnosed autistic as a toddler said that she doesn't think I'm autistic because I'm not as weird as yet another cousin (not her brother, but a cousin by marriage) who does have an autism diagnosis.

[@ReiverBlue1971]

Regarding the fear of others reaction to being told of my condition: I've never really been worried about others think of me other than my friends and family. I've ALWAYS been weird (50 years of it) and was lucky enough to enjoy the fact that I was different (I tend to think I have pretty much the perfect balance in my symptoms, good and bad). As bullies and other hurtful people realised it didn't bother me they got no enjoyment out of teasing, name calling etc. Being able to focus on your talents is a rather important part of this as well as helping to like yourself and your life (I'm still struggling with self harm and self hatred but this is more of a reaction to the depression masking forced me into...not my autism. Having a HUGE ego also helps ;P

[@Lillyluvsanime]

Back in... November(?) I went to my doctor and took my autism traits/concerns notes with me to my yearly wellness appointment (which my mom takes me to, both because of the distance and because I'm not comfortable going on my own) and my family doctor game me a referral for evaluation without even looking at my notes. She said another girl had asked the same of her recently and I got worried that she might not take me seriously because this idea that, "autism has become trendy," or whatever people are saying.

[@thevintagepoet]

It cost 4000 where I live. I'm on the fence as to should I go ahead with it

[@garyfrancis5015]

You always wear that spectrum jumper. Where did you buy it from?

[@IndieAndy]

Ooh it's from Katy's range (Invisible I range from Weird Triangle) 😊

[@tristantheoofer2]

if i get diagnosed itd be bc closure. i rlly want to fucking know once and for all if im rly autistic bc i have a fuck ton of le symptoms

[@beeurd]

Lots of great advice there as usual :) In case it helps anybody I'll share what I've done so far:- In Feb/March last year I noticed my new GP practice had an email appointment booking system, so I sent across my compiled list of issues and a query about seeking a diagnosis and they came back with a phone appointment. I was so glad I did compile the list because I fumbled explaining over the phone and ended up just saying "did you read the list I sent?" My GP did admit he wasn't too familiar with the adult autism process and he went away and came back a few days later with a referral form for me to complete. I had an initial assessment via phone in July and had a report back a couple months later. I'm currently on the waiting list for a support "webinar" which apparently replaces the face to face meeting, but I'm thinking they've probably used the word webinar incorrectly and it's probably a video call? I don't know, I guess I'll find out eventually!

[@IndieAndy]

Aww that's really great! I think by webinar, they just mean a group video call maybe? That's how what I think they mean but could be wrong.

[@beeurd]

@@IndieAndy Oh god, I hope not. 😂

[@chrissalis1018]

So, I know that I have autism and I have had a meltdown so I am fairly certain I do. But the main problem I can't get a diagnoses is that my mom doesn't believe I have it. What can I do about that?

[@endorolfgreenwolf5265]

My doctor sent something off, possibly a referral, 2 months ago. I haven’t got a call yet and I am not sure if it was because the person it was sent was the wrong person or if it is just being forgotten. Should I call my doctor to see what’s up, if he got some word on it or if he might need to try to send it someone else who might specialize in autism?

[@robynriana396]

There’s no harm in calling the doctor’s office to check! Often, the referral process takes weeks or months because of the high demand. In Canada, I wait over a year to see a psychiatrist. You could also call a private facility to ask the cost of autism diagnosis. I hope you don’t have to wait long!

[@IndieAndy]

Hi Endorolf! Definitely ring to check. Obviously it's important to allow some time but if it's over a month max since hearing, I'd chase it up and this goes to everyone wondering what they should do.

[@IndieAndy]

Aww gosh! I've heard similar stories and actually someone I know got the referral but didn't hear back. When they checked it came to light that the referral was sent to ADHD services not autism.

[@robynriana396]

@@IndieAndy Yes, and you can also ask what the referral was for. They should be able to tell you that. (Happened to me, too.)👍

[@garyfrancis5015]

Tony Attwood could to be aspergers? So child psychologist descrition is helpful for teenager and then parents. I could link the Attwood lecture in Australia.