Neurodiversity - ADHD & Autism
ADHD and Autism are more prevalent than we think
There are more and more adults being diagnosed with Autism and ADHD since recent social media campaigns and celebrities have openly discussed their diagnoses.
It is worth noting that Autism and ADHD are a spectrum of symptoms/difficulties that people have when trying to behave and fit in to society as "expected". There are several strengths and positives about having a brain that functions with Autism or ADHD also; and a good way to view is more that neurodiversity is not an illness, it's just a different way of your brain functioning.
Often when Autism and ADHD are suspected and diagnosed in adults, the person may have been coping with their difficulties and symptoms for a very long time, masking their struggles with coping mechanisms, sometimes overcompensating.
This constant stress of trying to function in an environment that isn't helpful can contribute to many mental health conditions, some of which are frequently co-occuring with neurodiversity. They can also contribute to physical illnesses and cause them or make them worse.
Undiagnosed, these conditions lead to struggles with relationships, family, work and generally coping with life demands.
If you feel your symptom patterns fit with one of these neurodivergent conditions - please speak to your GP as we can help to discuss your feelings and thoughts and refer for assessment if appropriate.
For referral for assessment for either ADHD or Autism we will need a completed questionnaire and to discuss with you how the difficulties you find affect your life and cause you problems.
AQ50 - Autism -
https://psychiatry-uk.com/2020/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/AQ50-form.pdf
ASRS Score - ADHD -
Your GP can refer you to our local NHS CWPT pathway in Coventry - the current waiting list stands at about 3-4 years.
They can also refer you to Psychiatry UK in Cornwall, according to the NHS Right to Choose pathway, and you will be assessed virtually by video consultation. Their waiting list is roughly 12 months to assessment.
Patients are able to exercise the right to choose their care with private providers such as Psychiatry UK. It is important to note that GP Practices are unable to prescribe medications requested or initiated in a private clinic.
COVENTRY AUTISM SUPPORT SERVICE
How the service works
If you live in Coventry or Warwickshire with a diagnosis of autism, or are awaiting a diagnosis, we may be able to help you, your parents or your carer.
You can start by calling the Navigation Team and ask about available support. Our team is made up of autistic individuals and those with lived experience, including parents or carers of autistic individuals.
Start here: The Navigation Team is available to help
Monday–Friday
8am–8pm
Call 024 76 012333
navigation@casspartnership.org.uk
The ADHD Foundation is the UK’s leading neurodiversity charity, offering a strength-based, lifespan service for the 1 in 5 of us who live with ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, DCD, Dyscalculia, OCD, Tourette’s Syndrome and more.
Integrity of purpose is fundamental to all we do as a user-led organisation.
The transition to adulthood brings different challenges and opportunities for those who have neurodevelopmental conditions. We offer tailored support throughout this stage of life, no matter a person’s experience. With excellent resources for adults, a diagnostic screening clinic, and a private online therapy service, we help adults to live happily and successfully.
https://www.adhdfoundation.org.uk/resources/
