Hi Bloo c:
It doesn't hurt to wonder. No harm in that. Receiving an official diagnosis, when it comes to what we're wondering about, typically starts with a visit to the GP. A GP will assess whether we'd benefit from speaking to a psychologist, psychiatrist or some other specialist. They'll write a referral to that specialist and then we're on our way toward an assessment. Should add that it's important to convince the GP of the need to see a specialist. Some GPs can be a little dismissive, 'Everyone experiences what you do to different degrees. It's normal. Nothing to worry about'. If you can express the level of disorder or dysfunction you're experiencing in your life, they'll see it as a significant problem that needs addressing. If the 1st GP you see doesn't like to wonder too much, could pay to see another one. Don't let a closed minded doctor stop you from your search for answers.
When it comes to conditions or disorders, the DSM V (The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - Fifth Edition) is what helps define certain conditions. Certain tests may be carried out when it comes to whether we tick a lot of the boxes that relate to a specific condition. Whether an avoidant nature is an issue in and of it's own or whether it's a part of another condition will be based on assessment/testing.
I hope you manage to find the answers and direction you're looking for. It definitely helps make a huge difference when we can better understand why we can be struggling in so many different ways. From my own experience, I've found that while an official medical or psychological diagnosis can help point to certain reasons for why we may be ticking the way we are, it doesn't hurt to also wonder about or question 'What naturally leads me to tick this way?'. For example, on one hand I'm a gal who's been diagnosed as being prone to depressive episodes. On the other hand you could say I'm someone who has the natural ability to feel or sense what's depressing and this comes with a lot of challenges including the need for skill development and greater self understanding. It's all a little like exploring the rabbit hole of greater self understanding. There can be so much to discover and wonder about when it comes to how we tick physically, mentally or psychologically and naturally.
Wishing you only the best on your quest for greater self understanding and self mastery.
