Getting an official diagnosis for autism can be a long, tiring and painful process! However, I am very thankful to my GP surgery, who helped make the whole experience a lot easier! Today, I wanted to share with you all how I found the process, all in the lead up to the big decision that changed my life! Find out more right here!

Good Morning Lovelies, 

Years ago, I was doing a course in a charity shop that was all about autism. Whilst learning about the condition, I started to see a lot of myself within the things I was discovering. Everyone is different and so is their autism, so I decided to ask my therapist whether they thought I could be. 

This was the first thing that I did that really got my diagnosis rolling lovelies. From forms to GP appointments, the process has been a long one since that course. For a while, I thought I was okay just having a self diagnosis. However, after a while I realised that I actually wanted it to be an official one. 

I knew that by asking my GP to help me with this that I was facing a long journey ahead of me. Yet, I’ve actually found that they have been able to get me through it so quickly. Therefore, I thought I would share my journey with you all. 

Starting back in November 2024, I visited my GP for a routine discussion about getting an official autism assessment. She was so caring and listened to me about why I thought I had the condition. Using a sheet with tick boxes, she gave me a quick assessment, which she stated had strong indications on it that I was autistic. A condition that could have also had an effect on my eating disorder. 

Whilst discussing the next options I could take, she made me aware of Psychiatry UK. A platform that helps to fast track the process, which can now take years to do. Luckily, through my doctors, they were able to provide an NHS referral for me, something I am so grateful for due to the company normally being private. 

Leaving her office, I was told that they would get in touch with me and to wait for their next steps. In a matter of days, I was sent a login, questionnaires and forms to fill out. Once I had submitted them back to the team, they then allowed me access to a booking programme to select when I could and who I would have my assessment with. 

Slots were booked for quite a while, however, I was able to get an early morning slot on the 5th March. After opting for this date, I was contacted via email with links to the online assessment, which included regular reminders via email and text to ensure I had it. Overall leading to a very trustworthy and fast process. 

As I write this, I am actually preparing for the assessment, which is taking place in the morning. I’m scared and nervous but also in an odd way excited. It is well known that women are not diagnosed as much as men for the condition. To find out if the way I am is because of an actual condition will give me some reassurance. It will also make me even more passionate to spread the message about getting diagnosed. 

If your doctor’s surgery offers the Psychiatry UK programme, definitely explore or look into it more lovelies! You may get the same peace of mind as I hope to! Of course, I will share the outcome with you all but for now I am preparing myself for the big moment. I’ll let you know ASAP though lovelies, as we have always been in this together! 

Joey X