Search results
Jul 27, 2024 · Symptoms of the condition vary from person to person, but there are a few feelings and habits to note. Internally, many undiagnosed adults with autism say they feel different from those around them. You may have seen videos on social media where people detail the signs that made them realize they’re autistic.
- Jillian Wilson
Jun 20, 2024 · What are the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in adults? Experts point out the signs, including struggles with communication and focus.
- Overview
- Signs and symptoms of adult autism
- Diagnosis
- Living with autism
- Summary
Autism in adults may present with different symptoms than in children. Autism symptoms in adults may include difficulty making conversation, social anxiety, and limited interest in only a few activities.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders. In most cases, autistic people receive a diagnosis in childhood, usually after the age of 4 years. However, some autistic adults are not diagnosed in childhood, even if their symptoms are more severe.
For an autistic person not diagnosed in childhood, receiving an ASD diagnosis later in life may be helpful for many reasons. In particular, it can provide better access to services and support.
However, many adults learn to live with the symptoms, and this can make diagnosis difficult.
Autistic people may find some aspects of communication and social interaction challenging. They may have difficulty relating to people and understanding their emotions. Autistic adults may also have inflexible thought patterns and behavior, and may carry out repetitive actions.
Common signs and symptoms of ASD in adults can include:
•difficulty making conversation
•difficulty making or maintaining close friendships
•discomfort during eye contact
•challenges with regulating emotions
Seeking an ASD diagnosis as an adult can be challenging for several reasons:
•People who did not receive a diagnosis in their younger years may have milder symptoms, which can be more difficult to recognize. At times, such people may never get a diagnosis.
•If people have been living with ASD for some time, they may be better at masking the signs and symptoms.
•Research shows that one of the common diagnostic tests for autism in adulthood, the ADOS-2, may be fairly reliable. But a doctor needs to recognize a person’s symptoms in order to refer them to testing.
Living with ASD may be hard for some autistic adults. They may struggle with social interactions, get fixated on routines, or experience sensitivities to light or sound.
Many of the same symptoms that appear in autistic children may also exist in adults. But adults experiencing these symptoms may find it difficult to live independent, day-to-day lives as a result.
A study on services and outcomes in autistic adults showed that 27% of autistic participants were unemployed. Autistic adults may also have more limited options for support services than autistic children. In the same study, 25% of autistic participants reported not getting enough support services.
Some autistic adults experience high intelligence, strong memory, an ability to think “outside the box,” and strong talent in particular areas. Other traits can include a unique sense of humor, and a strong sense of fairness and justice.
For some autistic people, getting a diagnosis of ASD in adulthood can provide relief, validation, and access to some support services for those who require them. For others, a diagnosis may not be necessary.
Adults who suspect that they may be autistic and would like a diagnosis should speak with their doctor, who can provide advice and guidance on the next steps.
Feb 5, 2024 · Autism in Adults: Recognizing the Signs, Living with a Diagnosis. Even if you weren’t diagnosed as a child, you may notice the symptoms of high-functioning autism in later life. Here's what to look for and how to deal with a diagnosis.
Aug 1, 2019 · Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) eventually grow up and need to make the transition from pediatric services to adult. This is a diverse patient population. Key Points. Autism is becoming more common, with most recent statistics showing at least 1 in 59 children affected.
- Carol Swetlik, Sarah E. Earp, Kathleen N. Franco
- 2019
Apr 16, 2024 · Some individuals with ASD may not receive a diagnosis until adulthood. Learn how to recognize, diagnose, and manage ASD in adults.
People also ask
How can a person with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) get help?
Does social support improve quality of life for adults with autism?
Why do people with autism go to routine?
Nov 11, 2022 · Nearly 5.5 million adults in the United States live with ASD. This article discusses the signs of ASD in adults, ways to seek a diagnosis, and how to find support as an autistic adult.
