Autism Information

Question: Some questions about autism?

(Posted by: Hannah Jackson on 2010-07-29 18:54:46)

1. Do you just go to your every day doctor? Or do you have to see a specialist? 2. How to they determin whether you're autistic or not? Tests? Questions? 3. They discover you're autistic; what happens then? Just FYI, I'm 16. I did an online test as a rough guid and as it said it was highly likely I'm autistic, I'm considering getting a professional opinion but I'm scared about the whole process. elizabeth - How do I find someone who specialises in it? Do they have a given name? (The profession, not the actual person.) And that's why I want to know; it would explain a lot. :/ As for what test did I do, I am not sure but I do also seem to show symptoms of OCD.. If I go to a doctor about this, would they be able to also look into that? Thanks. (:

Posted by: tyandtobesmom on 2010-07-29, 18:58:35

I would start with your regular doctor and the school counselor. They can recommend a good therapist to test you. You may want to look at Asberger's as well.. it may be that. There is nothing at all to be afraid of, no medical tests or shots or anything. Surveys, observations, papers for parents and teachers..

Posted by: elizabeth on 2010-07-29, 19:14:42

^ It's Asperger's, not Asberger's. Though, you are more likely to be an aspie, not autistic. Yeah, there are questions. You need to see someone that specializes in it, not just any doctor. It's much harder for a girl to get diagnosed because we hide the symptoms better; we're better at mimicking social behaviors. You need to go ahead and get tested/ diagnosed. If the DSM-IV goes through with the proposed changes, it will be even more difficult for a girl to get diagnosed. As for what happens next: You can get therapy if it is needed. It will also just help knowing you do have it, especially if you have a lot of issues functioning. Just out of curiosity, which online test did you take? Being an aspie can be confused with just being OCD and/ or ADD/ ADHD. Most people that are aspies have those and other conditions too. ***Oh, by that I just mean you need to find someone experienced in dealing with autism and asperger's and that it should be at least one of the main focuses in their practice. Yes, they'll also be able to diagnose and help treat OCD. Here is a site that may be able to help you in finding a doctor: aspergers.com/ asplist.htm