While autism is often related to children, it does not magically disappear as one matures. Many people go on to live with autism and never get diagnosed. Knowing how to identify autism in grownups can assist both individuals and their loved ones in getting the support and services required. At We Care Support, we specialize in providing extensive autism assessment in Orlando, FL to assist grownups in getting to know themselves better and improving their everyday lives.
Why Adult Autism Tends to Remain Undiagnosed
Adults with autism have long remained invisible. Numerous people who are in their 30s, 40s, or even older have grown up during a time that had less autism awareness. For those who have milder autism and are verbally proficient and intelligent, this might have resulted in them being misunderstood as having unique personalities or as simply being shy.
In addition to this, social pressures can compel adults to suppress or mask their signs. This masking can eventually contribute to issues with their mental health like depression or anxiety or burnout.
Common Signs of Autism in Adults
Autism manifests differently in each person, but generally there are patterns and qualities that can indicate someone is on the autism spectrum. Here is what autism tends to look like in adults:
- Social Communication Difficulties
Adults with autism can:
- Have trouble understanding social cues such as body language or the tone of someone’s voice.
- Difficulty in starting or sustaining conversations.
- Prefer solitude over group interactions.
- Feel overwhelmed by social situations or find everyday conversation tiring.
- Rigid Thinking and Routines
- Resistance to change and a preference for routine.
- Displeasure with suddenness or surprises.
- Concentration on particular interests or passions.
- Sensory Sensitive
- Sensitivities to lights, noises, textures, or odors
- Overwhelmed in noisy environments or crowded places.
- Distress with specific food textures or clothing materials.
- Difficulties with Emotional Regulation
- Difficulty in comprehending or communicating feelings.
- Prone to outbursts or shutdown in situations of excessive stress.
- Difficulty with understanding other people’s feelings or empathizing in a natural manner.
- Executive Function Difficulties
- Having trouble with planning, time management, or multitasking.
- Difficulty shifting between activities or prioritizing obligations.
- Relationship Problems
- Difficulty in forming or sustaining romantic or platonic relationships.
- Feeling misunderstood or isolated in group situations.
- Prefer deep meaningful talks to casual small talk.
How Autism Can be Confused with Other Disorders
Numerous adults with untreated autism are first diagnosed with other disorders and treated for them.
- Anxiety Disorders
- Depression
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
These diagnoses might be present concurrently with autism but might also be manifestations of the neurodivergent experience itself. This makes it essential to conduct comprehensive autism assessment to ensure accurate diagnosis and support planning.
Advantages of Having an Autism Diagnosis as an Adult
Receiving an autism diagnosis later in life can be life-changing. It often provides clarity and validation for years of confusion or emotional distress. Some key benefits include:
- Self-knowledge: Understanding one’s own thought patterns and behaviors.
- Enhanced mental well-being: Lowering self-blame, worry, or depression
- Improved relationships: Managing communication differences and boundaries.
- Access to support services: Including therapy, coaching, workplace accommodations, and social support groups.
An autism assessment can also lead people to reframe their past in a new, compassionate lens. Rather than viewing past difficulties as their own shortcomings, many people realize these were symptoms of an unnoticed neurological difference.
What an Autism Assessment Entails
At We Care Support, our adult autism assessment in Orlando, FL is comprehensive, professional, and empowering. Our process normally involves:
- Clinical interviews to gather developmental and behavioral history
- Standardized questionnaires and checklists.
- Observational and interaction measures to examine communication and behavioral patterns.
- Feedback sessions to discuss findings and create a customized support plan.
We aspire to develop an environment in which people feel seen, heard and understood.
If you have spent a lot of your life feeling “different” and unsure of the reason why, it is time to consider if autism is in your narrative. Many people do not realize their autism until later in life and say it brings them feelings of relief and clarity, and a sense of purpose.
At We Care Support, we are convinced that it is never too late to discover more about who you are. Our skilled clinicians are available to take you through the process of autism assessment and introduce you to resources that can empower you to live a purposeful life.
Contact Us Today for Autism Assessment
Whether it is on your own or on behalf of someone close to you, We Care Support can assist. Our experienced and understanding staff provides in-depth autism assessment services to all adults. No longer do you need to delay in receiving the clarity and support that is yours. Reach out to us today to arrange your autism evaluation and get started on getting to know yourself better.
