[firemonkey]

That would definitely be a problem if a diagnosis of ASD restricted access to mental health services. Some of us have a combination of both ASD and mental illness symptoms.

I'm actually very nervous about pushing ahead with an assessment. Although I have some ASD traits I'm not sure I'd meet a full diagnosis. I actually feel I match non-verbal learning disorder more closely. The trouble being NVLD is not covered by the autism service although it is probably a cousin to ASD. If I go for an ASD assessment and they say 'no' I've effectively shot my bolt as there is very little help and support for alternatives like NVLD. It will just strengthen the ignorant and misguided belief that everything relates back to a mental illness diagnosis.