Autism Diagnosis: Next Steps

young boy playing with train with two woman next to him

Reaching a diagnosis of autism is a challenge in itself, but discovering the best steps to take after this has happened can also be a daunting task. 

When you first receive a diagnosis of autism, it can be a daunting word. Suddenly, your hopes and life may feel as if they have been changed forever. It is important, as it is after any sometimes shocking revelation, to take some time to properly digest the information you have just heard. 

If you need to, ask questions. The most important thing is to give yourself some time to properly digest this new information. And remember, you are not on your own.

Finding A Community

Whatever situation you are in, finding like-minded people who have walked in your shoes is a benefit. Finding a community of people that know where you’re coming from can allow you to find the support you need to properly care for yourself or your child. 

Online support groups are commonplace and can be found by simply Googling ‘support groups and forums in your local area’. These groups may be most helpful as they have specific knowledge of the support you can find close to home. 

Some great groups can be found on platforms such as Facebook, where people join communities from all over the world to share their experiences and thoughts.

Supporting Your Child

After receiving a diagnosis of autism for your child it can become a lot easier to help them find the support they need. Be it at school or home, there can be a lot of support out there, you just have to look in the right place. 

Local Authorities, by definition, are required to provide help for children in need. While there does not need to be a diagnosis in place for this to happen, it can certainly help. 

To find out more information about what you can receive from your Local Authority, contact them directly and explain your situation. 

In addition to this, as the National Autistic Society states: “your family may be eligible for benefits such as Disability Living Allowance or Carers Allowance.”

Schooling

School is one of the most common areas in which your child may need further assistance. Speaking to your child’s school directly can be the best way to identify whether they need any extra support, and what help can be provided to them if this is the case. 

Extra support can vary depending on the needs of your child, from time outside of lessons to one-to-one support. In exams, students may be allowed to sit their assessments outside of the typical environment, while others may be given extra time to fully understand their assignment. 

Once you speak with your child’s school about their needs, their teachers and surrounding staff will be able to discuss with you the support they think your child could benefit from. It is through this discussion that most educational environments learn more about the diagnosis of their pupil, and parents learn what support is available to them. 

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