Is It Possible to Get Diagnosed with ASD Asperger Without Having His Parents Interviewed?

Unfortunately, unless you are a legal adult, you'll need your parents' consent to be sent to an autism specialist. Self-diagnosis can be done at any time, though it's often more reliable with the input of a professional.

The Necessity of Professional Assessment

Do you think that things only exist because an lsquo;expertrsquo; says so? While professionals are indeed crucial for diagnosing Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), the notion that things only exist based on an expert's opinion is a bit extreme. People can self-diagnose, but it's generally considered less accurate without a clinical evaluation. For instance, Asperger's is something you are born with; the diagnosis is more about making it official.

My Personal Experience

I grew up long before Asperger's was even recognized as a diagnosis. The joke was that I was a changeling because I didn't fit in with the rest of the family. In fact, maybe we should start calling people with Asperger's lsquo;changelingsrsquo; if that fits the narrative better. So, can someone have Asperger's without their parents being interviewed?

The Process of Diagnosis

Autism is often self-diagnosed, especially for adults, as child pathways to diagnosis beyond a psychiatrist are limited or expensive. Typically, only those with decent insurance can afford the evaluations. For many, it can cost between $1,000 and $5,000, and in some cases, it can be as high as $10,000. This can be particularly challenging for females, as the typical autistic model is a male child.

For many of us with adult children who have autism, we already know the lack of resources available. Beyond the age of 21, services can become extremely limited. Those of us in our 40s, 50s, or 60s, especially females, can fall through the cracks as we mask for so long without realizing it. It's only when our children are grown and we regain focus on ourselves that we start to peel away the layers of masking we used to be caregivers and parents.

The Emotional Journey

The loss of these roles can be incredibly mentally jarring, leading some to feel like they are going insane. But it's not a mental breakdown; it's rather a re-definition of self. For me, diagnosis was a simple step, but then I did all the tests and tests to affirm what I already knew. This affirmation is crucial as it supports personal understanding. However, if you are looking for access to support services, you need a clinical diagnosis. Your age, location, and gender can affect the availability and type of support services, so research these before spending money on a diagnosis.

Conclusion

While self-diagnosis can provide some insight, it's not a substitute for a professional evaluation. If you are seeking support services, a clinical diagnosis is often necessary. The road to understanding and acceptance is a journey, and while it can be challenging, it can also be incredibly rewarding. For those who self-diagnose, it's essential to validate this knowledge through professional means for better access to resources and support.