A few days ago, I told you all about the lead up to my autism assessment with Psychiatry UK! Well, I’ve now had it and I have to admit that whilst it was tough, I am so proud of myself for doing and getting a confirmed answer as to whether I had it or not! Find out what happened on the day here!

Good Morning Lovelies, 

Weeks ago, I had my autism assessment with Psychiatry UK and whilst it was tough, tiring and emotional, I can now confirm that it was one of the best decisions I have ever made to explore the diagnosis further. Having booked the appointment a while ago, the months leading up to it had been quite calm, yet, the nerves did come in thick and fast the day before the appointment. 

As someone who likes to know the plan or way something will be done, not knowing how or what I would be asked questions needing to be answered left me via unsettled. The night before the assessment I couldn’t sleep. I just felt like I wanted to cancel the whole thing. 

Yet, I didn’t and so the following day, at 8am, I was on a Teams call with my chosen consultant. Right away, I knew I had picked the right one. Dr Sai Achuthan had rave reviews throughout my selection process and I have to admit that I gave him a five star one too. He was friendly, calming and open from the start of our call until the end. 

Having answered a questionnaire, along with my mum, prior to the assessment, he had been able to gather a lot of understanding about my condition already. So, when it came to him asking me the questions he needed further answers or knowledge on, I was sort of prepared. 

From tastes, touch and even childhood emotions, everything was covered in just over an hour. Consulting all his notes, Dr Sai was then able to provide me with a diagnosis right away. This was when the nerves kicked. Explaining each level of autism, he told me that I did have the condition and that I fit the level one criteria. 

Hearing him say those words brought both a sense of calm and sadness into my life. I was glad that I had been officially diagnosed and would be able to now find out how my life is or has been affected by my condition. Yet, the sadness settled in from all the years I had struggled. Especially as a little girl. 

Giving me options on how I could learn to cope with the new diagnosis, Dr Sai provided me with lots of useful information and guidance on where I could go to get support. He also gave me a guide as to when the official report would be provided before reassuring me that everything would be okay and ending the call. 

It’s been a few weeks since the diagnosis and I am trying to learn a lot about myself now with my therapists and GPs. Taking just under four months, my process was quick and efficient. In fact, it has been truly life changing and I am so grateful to all of those who have helped me along the way. 

If you need or think you may need an assessment lovelies then reach out to your GP! It may seem scary but I promise that it all gets a lot better once you know! I promise you! And remember if you ever need someone to talk to then I am always here to chat! 

Joey X