Autism Symptoms In Adults.
The rate of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children is increasing, resulting in more knowledge and resources in the subject. As a result, more and more adults are aware of ASD, and realise that they may have some signs of autism.
Identifying the symptoms of autism in adults can be difficult, as many of these individuals appear blunt, eccentric, and unusual. Aside from their autism symptoms, these individuals may seem uninterested in many activities. Depression and feelings of isolation can also accompany autism, as they have felt misunderstood their whole lives.
ASD symptoms may go unnoticed or undiagnosed until adulthood. Proper diagnosis of autism may replace an incorrect diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
For an autism diagnosis to be made, a professional will look at a wide range of symptoms and patterns of behaviour, then use their professional judgement.
What Are The Signs That An Adult Has Autism?
Autism symptoms in adults can vary significantly between people. One of the most common ways that autistic individuals can be diagnosed is through social interactions. Autistic adults often have a hard time understanding nonverbal cues and social situations as well as using nonverbal communication themselves. They may also have challenges engaging in meaningful conversation and struggle to recognise figures of speech or sarcasm. They may also speak in a monotone voice and use limited facial expressions, which makes it difficult to relate to others. They may seem rude and withdrawn, due to their challenges with conversation and social interaction.
Adults with autism have difficulty understanding what others are thinking or saying. Reading facial expressions and body language is often challenging. They may misinterpret gestures and sounds. They may not understand jokes or sarcasm. They may misunderstand social cues.
Adults with autism can be blunt and rude, without meaning to be rude. They just don't realise their behaviour is inappropriate or making others feel uncomfortable. They may not understand that certain behaviours are socially unacceptable.
Adults with autism may have difficulty communicating their feelings. Sometimes they don't show emotions easily, and they don't express themselves in a way that people expect.
Combining those challenges mentioned above means that adults with ASD often get anxious about social situations such as parties, meetings and dates. They may even avoid social situations altogether. It can be much more difficult to make good friends, which may contribute to loneliness. These challenges can contribute to flow on diagnosis such as depression and anxiety disorder.
Autism is a spectrum, ranging from mild, high functioning autism, to more challenging forms of autism. There's a range of signs of autism that are used in the diagnosis, however each person will have their own set of challenges, with no person being the same. It's important to keep that in mind. Whether you have autism yourself, or you know someone with autism, it's important to support yourself or others in a way that helps, not just follow a recipe that worked for someone else, or appears in a text book.
What Are The Challenges For Adults With Autism?
Many autistic adults can still face significant challenges in adult life. Although individuals with autism may seem capable of functioning independently, they still experience challenges related to their condition. These challenges may impact their ability to work, form intimate relationships, and live autonomously. Adult autism symptoms are often difficult for others to see, when the person has learnt to mask and hide their challenges.
Autistic people face additional challenges, which vary depending on their individual symptoms. An adult with sensory issues may require a quiet workplace environment and a place to work with minimal sensory input. It's important to keep in mind that environmental factors may help or hinder the wellbeing of a person with autism.
Someone with repetitive behaviours may need certain accommodations to help them at work and at home. Sometimes workplaces should be more diligent about structure in the workplace, such as daily routines as well as well-structured meetings. Friends and colleagues should be mindful of any challenges with social communication to help them connect and feel more comfortable.
Treatment Options.
Although many adults with autism do not seek a formal diagnosis, consulting with a doctor is a great first step. Most autism services are limited to those with a clinical diagnosis. Consult with your doctor about finding support and resources in your area. Another great way to get involved in your community is to reach out to local support groups. Some communities have programs and resources to assist adults with autism. You can also seek help for co-occurring conditions, like depression or anxiety.
While the treatment options for ASD in children are generally quite limited, adults with the disorder may still benefit from various therapies. Some of these include cognitive, verbal, and applied behavioural therapies. While these are all beneficial, adults with ASD may benefit from different types of support, depending on their unique challenges. Psychologists and psychiatrists can perform official diagnoses. Licensed psychologists are more affordable and may specialise in autism. However, not all clinicians are trained in the treatment of adults with ASD.
For adults who have undiagnosed autism, treatment can help them improve their quality of life and function. Adults with autism may be socially isolated, and they may experience difficulty finding a job that is rewarding and well-paying. A variety of other conditions may also arise from their disorder, including mental and physical illnesses. Although these challenges may not be life-threatening, they can negatively impact a person's mental and physical well-being.
Adults with ASD may also have difficulty engaging with others outside their interests. The severity of the symptoms depends on the severity and the quality of life of the person with ASD. In general, treatment options for autism include therapy with a healthcare provider and sometimes medication. However, they differ widely from one another. Fortunately, the number of adults seeking help for their condition is increasing. This increases the availability of resources and services for this population.
In addition to seeing a psychologist, you can attend a support group for adults with autism. This group will help you find other people who share your experiences and learn more about neurodiversity. Whether you're an adult with autism, finding a diagnosis will help you cope with symptoms and find resources to improve your quality of life. A cure for autism is not available, but there are treatments for those who are diagnosed. Therapies for autism depend on a person's age and signs, as well as the severity of the condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common signs of autism in adults?
Many adults with autism may recognize certain signs that often go unnoticed or are misunderstood. Common signs include:
- Difficulty with social interactions: Struggling to read social cues, maintain conversations, or make eye contact.
- Repetitive behaviors or routines: Preference for specific rituals, routines, or interests, and discomfort with change.
- Intense focus or special interests: Deep knowledge or obsession with particular topics.
- Sensory sensitivities: Over- or under-reacting to sounds, lights, textures, or smells.
- Communication differences: Might speak in a monotone, have difficulty understanding sarcasm, or prefer written over spoken communication.
Understanding these signs can help in recognizing autism, but formal assessment by a healthcare professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis.
Can autism in adults be diagnosed later in life, and how is it done?
Absolutely! Many adults are diagnosed with autism later in life, sometimes after their children or friends bring it up. Diagnosing autism in adults involves a comprehensive evaluation by a trained mental health professional or a neurologist. This process typically includes:
- Detailed interview about personal history, challenges, and developmental milestones.
- Standardized assessment tools designed for adult autism diagnosis, such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R).
- Observation of social interactions and behaviors.
- Ruling out other mental health conditions that might explain some symptoms.
This careful process helps ensure an accurate diagnosis, which can open doors to support and tailored strategies for managing everyday life.
What kinds of support or treatment are available for adults with autism?
If you're an adult with autism or suspect you might be, there are a variety of support options available:
- Therapies: Behavioral therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help with social skills, managing anxiety, or developing coping strategies.
- Social skills training: Programs designed to improve communication and social interactions.
- Occupational therapy: Helps with daily living skills and sensory integration.
- Support groups: Connecting with others who understand your experience can be empowering and helpful.
- Employment support: Vocational training and workplace accommodations can improve job experiences.
- Medication: While there's no cure, medications might help manage symptoms like anxiety or depression.
Getting personalized support from healthcare professionals is the best way to determine what strategies work for you.
Are there any misconceptions about autism in adults that I should be aware of?
Yes, there are several common misconceptions about autism in adults that can lead to misunderstandings:
- Myth: All adults with autism have severe challenges.
In reality, autism is a spectrum. Many adults have high functioning autism and lead independent, successful lives.
- Myth: Autism in adults always looks the same.
Signs vary widely; some may be very noticeable, while others may be subtle or internalized.
- Myth: Autism is caused by parenting or lack of social skills.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition with biological underpinnings, not caused by upbringing.
- Myth: Only children can be diagnosed with autism.
Many adults are diagnosed later in life as awareness has increased.
Are you curious about your own experiences or those of someone you care about? Learning the facts can foster understanding and empathy.
- Myth: All adults with autism have severe challenges.
How can I talk to someone I suspect has autism about it?
If you believe someone you know might be on the autism spectrum, approaching the topic with sensitivity and respect is important. Here are some tips:
- Choose the right time and place: Have a private, relaxed setting free from distractions.
- Express your care: Frame your concern around support and understanding, such as, "I've noticed some things that make me wonder if you're comfortable or if you'd like to talk about anything."
- Be observant and listen: Let them share at their own pace without pressing for answers.
- Provide information gently: Offer resources or suggest professional evaluation if they seem open.
- Respect their response: They may feel relieved, confused, or unsure—allow space for their feelings.
Remember, you're there to support them, not to label or diagnose. Encouraging professional assessment is key if they wish to explore further.
