Autism in Adults: What to Know and How to Get Tested
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects individuals throughout their lives. It is often associated with children, but many adults are only now discovering they may be on the spectrum. You may notice differences in social interaction, communication patterns, and specific interests or behaviors. These traits can manifest differently in adults than children, making recognition challenging.
Adults can experience difficulty interpreting social cues and maintaining relationships, challenges with verbal and non-verbal communication, focused interests in specific topics, preference for routines, resistance to change, and sensory sensitivities.
It's important to note that these traits vary widely among individuals, hence the term "spectrum."
Impact on Daily Life
ASD can affect various aspects of an adult's life, including:
Employment: Excelling in detail-oriented tasks but struggling with office politics
Relationships: Forming and maintaining connections might be challenging
Self-care: Executive functioning difficulties may impact daily routines
Mental health: Anxiety and depression are common co-occurring conditions
Understanding these potential challenges can help you or your loved ones seek appropriate support and accommodations.
Signs and Symptoms of Autism in Adults
Social Interaction Challenges
Adults with autism may experience difficulties in social situations. This can look like trouble maintaining eye contact, understanding social cues, or engaging in small talk. They might find initiating or sustaining conversations challenging, often feeling awkward or out of place at social gatherings. Additionally, they may struggle to interpret others' emotions or express feelings effectively.
Communication Patterns
Communication styles in adults with autism might be unique. They may tend to speak in a monotone voice or with unusual intonation. They might take idioms or sarcasm literally, missing the intended meaning. Conversely, they may excel in certain areas of communication, such as having an extensive vocabulary or the ability to discuss specific topics in great detail.
Repetitive Behaviors and Routines
Adults with autism may notice a strong preference for routines and resistance to change. This can manifest as repetitive behaviors, such as hand-flapping, rocking, or intense interest in specific subjects. They might feel distressed when routines are disrupted.
Sensory Sensitivities
Heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory stimuli is common. Certain sounds, lights, textures, or smells may be overwhelming or distressing. Conversely, adults with autism might seek out specific sensory experiences. These sensitivities can impact daily life, affecting choices in clothing, food, or environments.
Executive Functioning Difficulties
Those with autism may experience challenges with organization, time management, and prioritizing tasks. This can affect the ability to plan and complete projects, managing schedules, or adapting to new situations. They might also struggle with decision-making or problem-solving in certain contexts.
Getting Tested for Autism as an Adult
If you suspect you may be on the autism spectrum, seeking a professional evaluation is a crucial step. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can manifest differently in adults compared to children, making self-diagnosis challenging.
The Diagnostic Process
You'll typically follow these steps:
Undergo a comprehensive evaluation with a psychologist or psychiatrist experienced in adult ASD.
Participate in various assessments, which may include structured interviews, cognitive tests, observation of social behaviors, and questionnaires about developmental history.
The diagnostic process can be lengthy, requiring multiple sessions to gather sufficient information for an accurate assessment. Remember, seeking a diagnosis is a personal decision. Whether the outcome confirms ASD or not, the process can provide valuable insights into your neurodevelopmental profile and guide you toward appropriate support and resources. Autism presents differently in each individual, and a professional evaluation is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.
Our team of specialists understands the unique challenges faced by individuals and families living with ASD. We offer comprehensive evaluations, compassionate therapy, and a supportive environment for individuals of all ages. Contact us today to discuss how our autism therapy services can empower you or your loved one to thrive.
