Assessment and diagnosis of autism: what to expect

A quick guide for young people and their families

Published October 2019

More than 1 in 100 people have autism. Being autistic affects people in different ways. It can bring strengths but also some challenges that can impact on how comfortable, health and happy you feel. Getting the right diagnosis and support is important.

This guide is for young people who are of secondary age and their families or adults with parental responsibility.

It covers:

• Why the young person has been offered an assessment for autism
• Arranging an autism assessment
• What happens during the assessment
• What happens after an assessment
• Information and support