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Am I autistic?

Posted on Wednesday, 15 February 2023, in Autism

hand with rainbow

 

Autism is a developmental condition that affects how people communicate, interact with others, and perceive the world around them. If you are wondering if you may be autistic, this article will help you spot the signs of autism and explain your options for receiving a professional autism diagnosis.

The signs of autism can vary widely from person to person. However, some common signs include difficulty with social interactions, communication difficulties, restricted interests and repetitive behaviours, sensitivities to certain textures, sounds, smells, or tastes, and difficulties with organisation, planning, and problem-solving.

Not all autistic people will show all of these signs, and some signs can also be present in other conditions, which is why it's so important to seek a professional assessment for a diagnosis. A more detailed explanation of the signs of autism can be found on our dedicated autism assessment page.

It's important to note that there are many positive aspects to neurodiversity and that being autistic is not a negative thing. While the condition comes with challenges, many autistic people see their neurodiversity as a positive aspect of their identity.

Autistic people often have unique strengths and abilities, such as excellent attention to detail, exceptional memory, and a talent for pattern recognition. These strengths can be harnessed to help people succeed in various areas of their lives, including socialising, work, and hobbies.

 

 

It's normal for people to have lived their entire lives without receiving an autism diagnosis, perhaps just feeling like they don't fully fit in. Many people won't feel the need for a professional diagnosis, but others benefit from the validation and answers a diagnosis gives them. Ultimately, the decision to seek a diagnosis is yours, and the only way to definitively determine if you are autistic is by getting a formal diagnosis.

If you would like to get an autism assessment through the NHS, the first step is to speak with your GP, who can provide a referral. Alternatively, a private autism assessment may help you get seen promptly while receiving the same standards of expert care delivered through the NHS.

Our autism assessments include tests and interviews that assess various aspects of your behaviour, social interactions, communication, and interests.

Remember, an autism diagnosis is not a label or a limitation. If you receive a diagnosis, we can help you explore support options, including therapy, medication, and other interventions to help you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.

 

Read more about our autism assessments