testing for adult autism

[jenniy122]

It has been suggested that I get tested for autism by both my primary care doctor and one of my therapists. The main issues I have that cause them to suspect are sensory issues and social awkwardness not explained by my other mental health issues.

The thing is, the testing is expensive (over $1000), and at this point I'm a functional adult, so I wonder do I really need it? Would having an official diagnoses make a difference? I've learned to live my life in a way that works for me, even if it is a little different from the norm, so what could they do for me once we knew one way or another?

[cinderwannabe]

How would you go about being "tested" for autism?

[bookwormde]

There is no "test" for Autism (although in a couple of years you will be able to get a genome scan that will tell you if you have the genetics).

Becoming self aware can be very important, so if somehow having somone else tell you what you probably already know then if the have the $ a full evaluation can have benefits.

Since you mention "other mental health problems" becoming self aware can help a lot with understanding that they are often manefestation of the challenges we face in interfaacng with NT society and structures, and can be greatly reduced by self awareness and compensitory skill development.

In the end there is likely little someone else can do by "diagnosing" but lots of benefit to you to fully understand your genetics and the gift and challenges that arise form them and the and all the reasons why you are "different"