Pat's Answer
I believe I was misdiagnosed with ASD
Your Question
Hi Pat, I was recently diagnosed with ASD, but I believe I’ve been misdiagnosed, as I pretty much act like a normal person, and I’m just quirky.
Answer
Hi, thank you for reaching out to Ask Pat and telling us how you feel about your recent diagnosis. We understand that it can be a difficult process to go through and we are concerned that you feel you have been misdiagnosed.
We want you to know that you have the right to medical support and to have people to look after and protect you. You also have the right to get information about things that are important to you and the right to express your opinions about them. We understand that receiving an autism diagnosis can leave you feeling worried and confused. We know that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is called a ‘spectrum’ condition because it affects people in different ways. Some autistic people might need a lot of care and support. But others are able to cope well with most things. Some autistic people might just be quirky, like you. We think it’s great that you celebrate your uniqueness.
Your beliefs about a possible misdiagnosis are valid and therefore it is important to get the help you deserve for this issue. The Childline website also has some articles which you can have a look through: www.childline.ie/how-i-feel/
There are also other organisations out there that can assist you with some useful information on their websites which may help you understand what is going on: www.asiam.ie ; www.autismireland.ie and www.spunout.ie (if you are over 16).
You do not have to go through this alone. Have you spoken to a trusted adult about how you feel about the diagnosis? This can be a parent, uncle/aunt or school counsellor or anyone you trust and feel comfortable talking to about your concerns. If you feel that you cannot talk to somebody you know just yet, then Childline is here for you, and we would really love to listen to you. At Childline we are focused on you and what is important to you. The services are free and available 24 hours a day. The team do not judge anything you say. You can contact us through our telephone service by calling 1800 66 66 66 66, through our text service on 50101, or by web chat that you access through the website: www.childline.ie
We hope that you find some of the above helpful. Remember, you have already made a brave step by reaching out to Ask Pat.
We hope to hear from you soon. Take care of yourself,
Pat