What To Do After an Autism Screening Test

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

• What To Do After an Autism Screening Test
• What do online test results mean?
• Should you trust online screening tests?
• What should you do if your score is high?
• How do you seek a diagnosis?
• What to expect during assessment
• Preparation tips
• What resources are available while waiting for assessment?
• Practical checklist: immediate steps after your screening
• Common concerns and FAQs
• Final thoughts

What To Do After an Autism Screening Test

If you’ve just completed an online autism screening test, you’re likely asking: what do I do next? Screening tools can be a helpful first step, but they’re not a diagnosis. This guide explains what your score may mean, whether you can trust it, practical next steps if your score is high, how to pursue a formal diagnosis, and useful resources while you wait.

What do online screening test results mean?

Online screening tests (sometimes called self-assessments) are designed to highlight traits or patterns that commonly appear in autistic people. They measure tendencies across social communication, sensory sensitivity, repetitive behaviours, and other domains. A higher score indicates more traits consistent with autism, while a lower score suggests fewer.

Important: these tests are screening tools, not diagnostic instruments. They help identify whether a deeper evaluation might be useful, but they do not replace a professional assessment by a clinician.

Should you trust online screening tests?

Short answer: treat them as informative but not definitive. Here’s why:

• Strengths: They’re quick, accessible, and can point you toward areas to explore with a professional.
• Limitations: Online tests can’t observe behaviour in context, account for developmental history, or rule out other conditions (e.g., ADHD, anxiety, learning differences) that can produce similar results.

Use your results as a prompt for further action rather than a final judgement. If you used a validated screening like the RAADS-R or AQ, that adds weight to the result, but the next step remains a comprehensive clinical assessment.

What should you do if your score is high?

If your autism test results show a high score, consider the following steps:

• 1. Pause and reflect: Read the full test report if available. Note which areas had the highest scores and any examples you recognise from your life.
• 2. Collect evidence: Jot down developmental history, examples of persistent challenges, and any strategies that help you cope. Include childhood examples — clinicians often look for lifelong patterns.
• 3. Talk to someone you trust: Share the results with a partner, family member, or close friend who can help provide observations or support.
• 4. Seek a professional pathway (see below): A clinician can interpret the screening in context and advise on diagnosis or alternative explanations.
• 5. Look after yourself: If the result raises anxiety, reach out to immediate supports (friends, helplines, GP) while you arrange next steps.

How do you seek a diagnosis?

Autism diagnosis next steps typically follow one of two routes: NHS/public and private.

• NHS route: Start with your GP. Bring your screening results, notes on your developmental history, and examples of current challenges. Your GP can refer you to a local specialist service for assessment. Check the NHS guidance on diagnosis and referral for details.
• Private route: If waiting lists are long or you prefer a faster route, private diagnostic services are an option. Private assessments usually involve a multi-disciplinary team and can be arranged directly.

What to expect during assessment:

• Multi-disciplinary evaluation (psychologist, psychiatrist, speech and language therapist, or occupational therapist).
• Structured interviews about developmental history and current functioning.
• Behavioural observations and standardized tests.
• A report summarising findings and recommendations.

Preparation tips:

• Bring your screening report (e.g., RAADS-R or AQ) and any other test printouts.
• Prepare a timeline of developmental milestones and significant life events.
• List strengths, challenges, and strategies that work for you.

If you used our RAADS-R screening tool, a detailed report can be especially useful to clinicians, learn more: RAADS-R test and if you tried the AQ test: AQ test.

What resources are available while waiting for assessment?

Waiting for an assessment can be stressful. There are practical resources and supports that can help:

• Information and guidance: National charities provide clear, practical advice about diagnosis, support, education, and employment: Autism UK advice and guidance
• Local support groups: Peer groups and local autism organisations offer community, shared experience, and practical tips.
• Practical adjustments: Consider small changes that reduce stress — consistent routines, sensory-friendly adjustments at work or home, and clear communication strategies.
• Mental health support: If anxiety or depression is present, talk to your GP about interim support (brief therapy, medication, or referrals).
• Educational resources: Books, webinars, and trusted online courses can help you understand traits and effective coping strategies.

These resources can help you manage daily life, build a support network, and prepare for a clinical appointment.

Practical checklist: immediate steps after your screening

• Save and print your test results.
• Make notes of specific examples from childhood and adulthood.
• Book a GP appointment and bring your materials.
• Consider sharing results with a trusted person for support.
• Explore reputable resources and support organisations while you wait.

Final thoughts

Completing an autism screening test is a meaningful first step. Use your results to inform a thoughtful, evidence-based next phase: gather history, consult a GP or specialist, and access support while you wait. The goal is to move from screening toward clarity and practical support tailored to your life.

FAQ