this post was submitted on 01 Oct 2023
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So the psychiatrist that my psychologist referred me to last week confirmed what we all suspected, that I have ADHD. What I didn't expect was that it's served with a side of Asperger's (now known as 'high functioning autism' apparently). Did not see that one coming but it actually explains a lot.
I should start on the meds (Vyvanse) later this week. No idea what to expect, but sure, I'll take legal speed if it's on offer!
If not too personal, what has this all cost so far?
I'm not sure what the psychologist charges to be honest, it was all under a mental health plan that's just been extended. The psychiatrist consultation was close to $1000 but I should get around half back. It's pricey but a relief to finally have it confirmed and get some treatment. I'm turning 53 this week and I should have done this years ago when it became clear that things weren't quite right.
Thanks.
If you use the medicare number 291 you can get it for cheaper. My psychiatrist doesn't cost a lot (they cost a lot but not $500 or $1k) so I was able to get my first appointment for free, but definitely use this!
I was offered a slightly cheaper ongoing consultations option with the psych (but it was still effin expensive), or the 291 option and let my GP take care of the 'script. I went the 291.
I wish my local docs could do the scripts, I hate having to pay like $90 just to get a script.
I got diagnosed as Autistic last week and the psychologist thinks I probably have a side serve of ADHD to go with it. Welcome to the club!
Did you suspect that was the case, or did the diagnosis come as a surprise?
Autism I strongly suspected after reading and watching some stuff about people who were diagnosed later in life and a lot of it just rung true. For years I thought I was just a chronically depressed, traumatised, introvert. I undertook some counselling this year which really helped with most of the trauma stuff. But the feeling of being burnt out, alienated and depressed was still lingering among other things. Last year I also had my manager at the time say to me that they thought I might have ADHD, which they themselves had and recommended I look into getting assessed. I was prepared for it, but it still came as a surprise. But holy shit did it explain a lot about me so I'm glad I decided to take the plunge and find out.
Ooo, the AuDHD club, it's very exclusive I hear. I get a day pass because my co-morbidities masks itself as autism (thanks PTSD).