Autism is not understood by the public, and it is often mis-diagnosed, or completely overlooked. And sadly, waiting lists for diagnoses, let alone treatment and therapy, can be lengthy.
This is totally unacceptable, and brings to mind the wider issue of lengthy waiting times for other conditions that affect mental health as well, for example ADHD.
I see a pattern here which I can’t help feeling is part of the wider strategy of running the NHS down as a prelude to privatisation. Already people are being forced to get private diagnoses if they can afford it, that is.
I feel that conditions such as Autism and others must be identified as early as possible, ideally in schools. The earlier the diagnosis, the better for both those afflicted, and those around them.
