Told my mom...

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Well, I finally was able to bring myself to present my research and suspicions about my possible Asperger's to my mom. I thought she would deny my claims, but she didn't. This is how it went:

Me: "Um, when I was little, did you ever have me evaluated...?"

Mom: "No, for what, ADD?"

Me: "Uh, no..."

Mom: "Asperger's?"

I was a little surprised she said that. She went on to ask about the information I looked up and why I felt this way, and her own suspicions (someone once told her I should get checked for ADHD, me, the kid who sat down for hours reading a book). Long story short, we are both considering the pros and cons to getting an official diagnosis. So, while we think about this, anybody know good clinics, doctors, clinicians, psychologists, etc. who deal with Asperger's in adults (I'm 21) around the Pasadena or Los Angeles, California areas?

I'm glad she is with you on this. Parents can end up in that funny space where they've often wondered about something, but worry about what will happen if they mention to their child; if the time and place has long passed, and how the child might react. You opened the door

Upsides to trying for a Dx: If you ever need assistance or accommodation from schools or workplaces you have an official record stating you meed Americans with Disabilities Act requirements to receive those accommodations.

If you feel you need a Dx to confirm your suspicions then it can reassure you that you're not "imagining things."

Downsides: If you do get a Dx it follows you everywhere and can keep some companies from covering care (yes even with new medical laws regarding this).

You may not get a Dx. Many docs don't see a need in diagnosing issues like this in adults unless they are severely impacting school or work. This is because AS typically makes for a functional but quirky adult with fewer accommodation needs than most children with it in the school system. However, if you NEED the Dx you may have to see a few professionals to get one to actually Dx. you.

How interesting!

My mom is now asking one of her friends who is a therapist to see me, while I am researching specialists in my area.