Advice and Support for People on Neurodiversity Waiting Lists
If you're a parent or carer with a kid awaiting an assessment, or a school supporting one
If you're a parent waiting for an ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessment for your child, you know the wait can feel like an eternity. It's more than just impatience; it's a period fraught with anxiety, frustration, and helplessness. Why is it so incredibly tough?
Watching Your Child Struggle: Every day, you might see your child facing challenges – perhaps with focus, social interactions, emotional regulation, or learning. Knowing they're struggling and feeling powerless to provide the right kind of support without a clear understanding is heartbreaking. You want answers so you can help them now.
The Weight of Uncertainty: Not knowing what is causing the difficulties is mentally exhausting. Is it ADHD? ASD? Something else entirely? Or are you overthinking? This limbo fuels parental anxiety and self-doubt. You crave clarity, not just for a label, but for a path forward.
Delayed Access to Support: An assessment is often the gateway to crucial resources – appropriate school accommodations (like an EHCP), therapies, parenting strategies tailored to your child's needs, and a community of understanding. The longer the wait, the longer your child goes without potentially life-changing support systems.
Feeling Dismissed or Misunderstood: Sometimes, the journey to getting on the waiting list involves advocating strongly for your child, potentially facing skepticism from others. The wait can feel like another hurdle where your concerns aren't being addressed urgently.
This waiting period isn't just about getting a diagnosis. It's about gaining understanding, finding validation for your instincts, accessing help, and finally being able to support your child in the most effective way possible. If you're in this waiting phase, know that your feelings are valid. It is incredibly hard, and you're doing your best in a challenging situation.
With that in mind, and because I feel passionate about this, I am always looking for resources you can use to make the wait easier - especially free ones.
What is WaitingWell from The Owl Centre Charity? Actually, what is The Owl Centre Charity?
WaitingWell is an initiative specifically designed to support children, young people, and their families during their time on The Owl Centre's waiting list, or any ADHD/ASD assessment waiting list actually. The Owl Centre Charity is the charitable wing of The Owl Centre, who are a leading provider of ADHD and autism assessments for both children and adults nationally. It is their way of bridging the gap, offering connection, information, and practical resources when you need them.
WaitingWell offers:
Helpful Information: Understand the process, what to expect, and how to prepare.
Practical Resources: Access tips, strategies, and activities you can use at home right away.
Connection: Feel part of The Owl Centre community even before your first appointment.
Reduced Anxiety: Gain reassurance and knowledge to help ease the uncertainty of waiting.
You can visit their website here:
Can You Help Me?
Sure. I can provide advice on being referred for an ADHD or autism assessment for you or your child. If WaitingWell isn’t enough, I can even offer 1:1 sessions or signpost you to somebody who can.
Please get in touch:
If you live in East Hertfordshire, and are registered with certain GP surgeries, there might even be a way I can help you for free (including with your Right To Choose referral paperwork). Find out here:
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