Hi [Figuring out the next step for Adult Aspie diagnosis]

[Karen A]

As a late addition to the previous post I thought I would add by way of further explaining the current climate.

I found out this afternoon that Ben has lost his main support in school.This is due to a lack of funding to enable enough Specialist Teachers to support pupils in schools in our area.Ben is currently coping well and thanks to three years extremely hard work he does not have any difficulties which require urgent input.He is 12.He has a formal diagnosis and a Statement of SEN.

 

Karen.

Edited November 19, 2010 by Karen A

[Hortus]

Just back from my GP [finally made the appointment] which was OK and she thinks I’m probably ‘on the spectrum’. I have another appointmnet next week to see how we want to move forward either just talking to someone about it and maybe some CBT or going for a full on diagnosis.

 

I don’t really know what to do. I don’t like the idea of self-diagnosis [i like to deal in definites and this seems a bit flakey] but if I get a diagnosis will I have to declare it on forms etc and have trouble getting travel insurance etc?

 

I do like the idea of being to explain to people why I’m like I am if need be. But as people have said there’s not a lot of help out there for adults.

 

What are people’s experiences of either scenario?

[Karen A]

Hi.

That sounds positive this far.

 

As I understand it there are only two places where you should declare an AS diagnosis.

Firstly if you wanted to apply to the armed forces as they will not accept applications from people with AS.They are exempt from DDA.Secondly on a driving license application.It does not on its own however prevent you driving.

 

As regards work application forms I think you do not have to declare an AS diagnosis.However if you don't then you can't then complain that adjustments were not made with relation to your disability.

 

Karen.

[Mumble]

As I understand it there are only two places where you should declare an AS diagnosis.

Firstly if you wanted to apply to the armed forces as they will not accept applications from people with AS.They are exempt from DDA.Secondly on a driving license application.It does not on its own however prevent you driving.

Not just driving licence application - if you already have a licence and are subsequently diagnosed but fail to tell them, you can be fined £1000.

 

You're also supposed to declare it on a travel insurance application. I don't know what would happen if you didn't, had to make a claim (even non-AS related) and they found out you hadn't notified them. It counts as a 'pre-existing medical condition' and so increases your premium.

[Hortus]

Thanks for that input.

 

I'm now thinking that it might be a good idea to be referred for some counselling as a first step to explore the extent of the problem and possible coping strategies and then maybe consider a formal diagnosis at a future date.

[Suze]

well done for taking the step and seeing your GP, its a tough call deciding wether to go for a dx, but no decisions need to be made straight away, take your time and chat to family and friends about it , best wishes suzex

[Cardamine]

Yes - well done Hortus. The slow, careful approach has got to be right.

 

Also, well done for opening up the discussion on the down-sides of diagnosis. I had no idea that you had to tell the DVLA. (Though it makes sense - i've passed my test, but i'm terrified to drive cos i know how bad i am.)

 

Anyone know where there's a comprehensive list of who you do/don't have to tell?

[Mumble]

Anyone know where there's a comprehensive list of who you do/don't have to tell?

I don't think there is a list, though it would be useful. Most I found out about through this forum. To be safe, I would declare it for anything that asked for a declaration of medical conditions.

[Hortus]

RE Travel Insurance- I had a go on 'insure and go' online and assuming you haven't had a violent outburst, are not travelling alone and don't suffer from anything else such as anxiety and depression etc they don't seem to add to your premium. Which is good news.