Late Diagnosis Of Autism In Adults: All The Important Information
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurological condition that affects behavior, social interaction and communication, depending on the severity of the disorder.. It is usually diagnosed in childhood; However, there are currently more adults who receive a late diagnosis, similar to what happens with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This late detection phenomenon has led to greater awareness of how autism can manifest at different stages of life and the importance of accurate diagnosis.
Late diagnosis can be complex, as many adults have developed different strategies to compensate for their difficulties. You often hear the phrase: “I was always like this, so I learned to cope in different ways.” However, there are common signs that may indicate the presence of the disorder. These include:
Importance of diagnosis in adult life
Receiving an autism diagnosis as an adult can be a turning point. It involves understanding that there are challenges with an explanation and answer within medicine and neurobiology, which can be a form of relief. An adequate diagnosis gives access to resources and support that can improve the structure that has already been built spontaneously and by social demands that may have arisen in childhood and adolescence.
Diagnostic Tools for Adults
Diagnostic tools for adults are different from those used in children. There are a series of tests that allow us to obtain relevant information to reach a diagnosis. However, it is important to consider that to obtain a more complete and comprehensive result, one must rely on neuropsychology, specifically on neuropsychological evaluation, to know other aspects of vital importance within cognition, such as memory, attention, executive functions, assessments regarding anxiety, depression, personality, self-esteem, social skills, etc.
For a good diagnosis, an adequate battery is necessary that includes psychometric tests appropriate for the age of the person seeking a diagnosis; and interviews and clinical observations, including evaluations by mental health professionals.
Challenges of late diagnosis
Late diagnoses often present obstacles, but they do not necessarily have to be negative. It is common to obtain late diagnoses because in previous years we were not as attentive to these diagnoses. Whether early or late, having a diagnosis is a door to greater personal growth if necessary. Some of the obstacles include:
Conclusions
Late diagnosis of autism in adults is an emerging area in neuroscience and mental health. Recognizing and diagnosing autism in adulthood not only validates the experiences of those who have lived without a clear diagnosis, but also opens doors to interventions and supports that can transform lives. It is vital to continue research and training to improve the recognition and treatment of autism at all stages of life.
