Autism is becoming more and more frequent within our rhetoric and our lives. We may have an autistic coworker, child, or partner. We may know a friend of a friend that has an autistic person in their lives. Every autistic person is different, but sometimes that difference may present because there's actually a dual diagnosis happening, which means that one or more diagnoses may be happening. If this is the case, it's important for you to unearth the answer so that the identifications can both be facilitated appropriately.
Often, autism can present along with a different diagnosis. When this happens, it's important for the practitioner to understand both diagnoses and how they affect the little person they are helping. If the therapist isn't considering all of the strengths and difficulties from each, intervention will likely only be half-informed. I once had a mother tell me "Autism just doesn't quite fit." This mother soon returned to update me about her son, he was also identified as ADHD which helped us to design a program and alter our teaching methods so that we could help him.
Does this story sound familiar? Here's a few things to do if it is:
1. Monitor indicators
If you are thinking that your child might have an additional diagnosis, there's probably a reason for it! Start to notice all of the things that don't quite line up with autism. Yes, there can be a ton of overlap with other diagnoses, but maybe that's because there actually is another one that hasn't been flushed out yet. Write these things down in a phone note or on a physical piece of paper so that you have something to reflect on at a later time.
2. Get familiar with other diagnoses
If you're already familiar with the neurodivergent world, you may know some of the other diagnoses out there, like ADHD, dyslexia, or sensory processing disorder to name a few. What if it's something on a different path like anxiety, intellectual disability, or even a sleep disorder? There are so many things that could be happening for your little. Make sure to arm yourself with information to cover all possibilities.
3. Seek help from a professional
If you're having questions or if you're pretty sure you know what's happening, make sure to speak to a medical professional. This person will be instrumental in teasing apart what is or is not happening for your child. (This would also be a great time to discuss your reflections from #1!!)
4. Keep digging
Sometimes the answer isn't straightforward, and often it may come over time. There are so many diagnoses to consider and your child's presentation may fluctuate over time. For example, Tourette's could vary in being more present one month and less present the next. Another would be if your doctor or other professional asked you to wait and review. Continue on with your own research and education and be sure to reach out to your professional as you go.
Has your child been dually diagnosed? What have you learned in the process that could help others?
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