Recent studies by Grosvenor LP, Croen LA, Lynch FL, et al. (2024) in the USA suggest that adult autism diagnoses are on the rise, notably among young adults. This increase in diagnoses means that it’s necessary to expand health care and psychological support to adults who might only realise that they have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) later on in life.
While many people receive a diagnosis in childhood, many undiagnosed adults may not understand how best to respond to their experiences and spend their lives masking or camouflaging, which means changing or adapting behaviour to prevent exclusion. Masking or camouflaging may be effective, but it is not sustainable in the long term and leads to poor mental health.
We need to raise awareness of what autism means so that we can find better ways to support adults diagnosed with ASD. In this article, we’ll discuss this disorder and the challenges that autistic adults face. We’ll also share some ways to help people navigate an adult diagnosis.
What is ASD?
At this point, it’s essential to acknowledge that diagnosis has pros and cons. Some may perceive it as a label and feel boxed in or that something is wrong with them. Diagnosis can also bring a sense of relief and understanding of how to navigate a way of being. For some, it provides access to financial support through medical aid. As human behaviour exists on a continuum, in this post, we do not intend to label anyone but would like to share relevant information so that people can receive the support they need if necessary.
To give a broad and hopefully useful definition, a Harvard Health Publishing article titled “Autism: The challenges and opportunities of an adult diagnosis,” defines autism as a neurological and developmental condition caused by differences in the brain. This condition affects social interaction, communication, learning, and behaviour. One of the challenging aspects of this disorder is that it is highly variable. Some people are high-functioning and can live independently, while others cannot.
This spectrum of neurodivergence means that many people might try their best to fit in on the surface but not get the support they need. While trying to integrate into society, autistic adults might compromise their mental health in the process.
To create a broader understanding of neurodivergence, we must understand some key traits, which we will list below:
Common characteristics in individuals with adult autism
As we mentioned above, ASD is highly variable and differs from person to person. However, there are two main areas where autistic individuals might face challenges. These areas include:
- Social communication and interaction: Autistic individuals may struggle to converse, share emotions, understand what others think and feel, interpret body language, and manage social situations.
- Repetitive behaviour: Autistic individuals may perform repetitive movements like rocking back and forth, flapping their hands or repeating certain words or phrases. People with ASD may also experience sensory differences, like being very light-sensitive, and may have an intense, focused interest in specific topics. Routine is also crucial, and even slight changes can cause distress.
We’ve discussed some of the ways that autistic individuals might struggle in a neurotypical setting. However, many neurodivergent people are highly gifted and can excel in certain areas. Therefore, ongoing efforts should include and integrate people who experience this type of neurodivergence.
How to break down adult autism stigma
As mentioned, unfortunately, many adults with autism have been masking or camouflaging their symptoms for so long that they may be experiencing stress, anxiety and depression. Jadav, N., & Bal, V. H. (2022) found that compared to people diagnosed in childhood, adult autism can result in a three times higher likelihood of being diagnosed with anxiety, depression or another mental health disorder. However, it doesn’t have to be this way.
Breaking down the stigma around adult autism and creating more awareness can help to normalise getting a diagnosis. While there is no “test”, a trained psychological professional can present a precise diagnosis based on medical history, questions, cognitive testing, and an ASD assessment. If more people receive a diagnosis earlier, getting support and managing symptoms is possible.
However, accessing a qualified clinician can be challenging and expensive, prohibiting many people from getting the support they need. Receiving a diagnosis later in life can also present challenges in adapting and changing one’s self-perception.
But, while a formal diagnosis is beneficial, there are many general ways to support people who suspect that they may have adult autism. Support groups and working with a therapist can help enhance communication skills, build relationships, and regulate emotions. Counselling can also help autistic adults who struggle with anxiety and depression. As ASD co-occurs with other neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD, medication can also be beneficial in some instances.
Explore neurodiversity through short online courses at SACAP Global
While we advocate for finding the support you need from a qualified mental health professional, SACAP Global offers a range of courses and workshops which may be beneficial when navigating an adult autism diagnosis:
- Unmasking Adult Autism: Navigating the Hidden World of Neurodiversity: This workshop explores the challenges of diagnosing adult autism and how to address late diagnosis, mental health comorbidities, and workplace accommodations.
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Early Diagnosis & Intervention: This workshop provides perspective on the diagnostic criteria for ASD and tools to support individuals effectively.
- Enhancing Mental Health: As many adults with autism struggle with their mental health, this course provides tools for improving emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing.
- Holistic Approach for Managing Depression and Managing and Preventing Anxiety are two courses which can help those with an adult autism diagnosis to manage their mental health.
Related Courses
Unmasking Adult Autism: Navigating the Hidden World of Neurodiversity
Explore the challenges of diagnosing adult autism and learn how to address late diagnosis, mental health comorbidities, and workplace accommodations.
Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Early Diagnosis & Intervention
Gain insight into the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and dyslexia.
Enhancing Mental Health
Learn about mental health and how to enhance it. Explore mental health in a personal, community and workplace context.
Holistic Approach to Managing Depression
Explore the intricate landscape of depression and learn how to effectively address and manage depression.
Managing & Preventing Anxiety
Build practical tools and knowledge to effectively address and manage anxiety.