Why more adults are being diagnosed with autism

[WORLD] Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition traditionally thought of as something diagnosed in childhood. However, in recent years, more and more adults are discovering that they fall somewhere on the autism spectrum. This rise in diagnoses among adults has led to a growing awareness of the symptoms of ASD that may not have been recognized in earlier years.

In this article, we’ll explore why more adults are being diagnosed with autism, the signs of ASD in adults, and what this means for society’s understanding of the condition.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person thinks, learns, and interacts with others. The term "spectrum" reflects the wide range of symptoms and severity of the condition, which can vary significantly between individuals. Some people with autism may have exceptional abilities in areas such as mathematics or music, while others may struggle with basic communication or social skills.

Historically, autism was most often diagnosed in children, typically by the age of three. As awareness of ASD has grown, however, experts have begun to recognize that many individuals with autism were not diagnosed as children. Instead, these individuals may have spent years misdiagnosed or struggling to understand themselves, their behaviors, and their difficulties.

Why Are More Adults Being Diagnosed with Autism?

There are several factors contributing to the increasing number of adults receiving an autism diagnosis today.

1. Increased Awareness of Autism

One of the biggest reasons why more adults are being diagnosed with ASD is the heightened awareness surrounding autism. In the past, autism was often misdiagnosed as other conditions, such as anxiety or ADHD, especially in individuals who didn’t fit the classic profile of autism.

As public understanding of ASD has expanded, more adults are recognizing the signs in themselves. In particular, many adults who grew up before the 1990s did not have the language or resources to describe their experiences. Today, with greater awareness of autism, more people are seeing how their difficulties in communication, social interactions, and sensory processing align with the characteristics of ASD.

As Dr. Claire McIver, a clinical psychologist, pointed out in a recent interview, "We have learned a lot more about how autism manifests across a spectrum, not just in children but in adults as well. More people are now able to recognize their own traits and seek out a diagnosis."

2. Improved Diagnostic Tools and Practices

Advances in diagnostic practices and tools have also contributed to the rise in adult diagnoses. In the past, autism diagnosis was largely based on a set of observable behaviors, many of which were more easily identified in young children. The diagnostic criteria for autism have evolved over time, and as a result, health professionals now have a better understanding of how autism presents in older individuals.

For example, adults may have more subtle symptoms that were not recognized earlier. Characteristics like intense interests in specific topics, difficulty understanding social cues, and challenges with changing routines may be mistaken for other conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or personality disorders. Thanks to a broader range of diagnostic tools, professionals can now identify autism in adults who may not have received an appropriate diagnosis in childhood.

3. The Growing Spectrum of Autism

Over the past few decades, the definition of autism has broadened. In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association published the DSM-5, which consolidated previous diagnostic categories under the term Autism Spectrum Disorder. This shift allows for a greater range of individuals to be diagnosed with autism, including those who have less severe symptoms or those who had previously been considered to have Asperger’s Syndrome, which is now part of the ASD diagnosis.

The broadening of the autism spectrum means that individuals who previously might not have met the criteria for an autism diagnosis can now receive an official diagnosis as an adult. This shift in perspective has led to many individuals realizing that their childhood behaviors and current struggles align with ASD.

4. Changing Social Norms and Expectations

Society's expectations have changed, and so have the pressures placed on individuals to conform to social norms. Adults with undiagnosed autism often find it difficult to meet societal expectations related to work, socializing, and family life. As a result, some individuals may seek a diagnosis after struggling with challenges related to communication, relationships, and career advancement.

Autism often presents differently in women than in men, with many women having a better ability to mask their symptoms. This has led to an underdiagnosis of autism in females for many years. As we gain a better understanding of how autism manifests across genders, more women are being diagnosed in adulthood, recognizing traits such as difficulty with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, and the tendency to "mask" their challenges in social settings.

Signs of Autism in Adults

Recognizing the signs of autism in adults can be difficult, especially for those who have spent years masking their symptoms. However, there are some common indicators that may suggest an individual is on the autism spectrum.

1. Difficulty with Social Interactions

Adults with autism may struggle with socializing or making friends. They may find it challenging to read social cues, such as body language or facial expressions, and they may have difficulty understanding jokes, sarcasm, or metaphors. This can lead to misunderstandings or feeling disconnected from others.

2. Intense Interests or Hobbies

Many adults with autism have a deep passion for a particular subject or activity. These interests can sometimes take up a significant portion of their time and energy. For example, an individual might become an expert in a very niche field, whether it be trains, ancient history, or coding.

3. Sensitivity to Sensory Inputs

Sensory sensitivities are a hallmark of autism. Adults on the spectrum might be particularly sensitive to lights, sounds, textures, or smells. This can cause discomfort in everyday situations, such as loud environments, certain clothing materials, or strong smells in public places.

4. Difficulty with Change and Routine

Adults with autism often prefer routine and familiarity. Sudden changes in their daily life, such as a change in work environment, can cause anxiety or distress. They may also have difficulty with multitasking or staying organized.

What Does This Mean for Adults with Autism?

For adults who are newly diagnosed with autism, the news can bring mixed feelings. For some, it’s a relief to finally have a clear explanation for the challenges they’ve faced throughout their lives. As one individual shared, "Getting diagnosed as an adult was like a weight lifting off my shoulders. I had spent years feeling like something was wrong with me. Now, I can finally understand why I struggle with social situations."

On the other hand, a late diagnosis can also bring challenges. Many adults may have already built their lives around compensating for their autism-related struggles, such as developing coping strategies for socializing or working in environments where they can avoid sensory overload. Receiving a diagnosis later in life may cause them to reconsider their coping mechanisms or reframe their experiences.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Although many adults are being diagnosed later in life, an early diagnosis of autism remains important. Early intervention can help individuals learn strategies to manage symptoms, develop social skills, and pursue their goals more effectively.

For adults who are diagnosed later, understanding that they are on the autism spectrum can still be empowering. It opens the door to better self-awareness and access to support networks that can help them thrive.

The increasing number of adult autism diagnoses speaks to a growing awareness and understanding of the spectrum of autism. Whether due to advances in diagnostic tools, changing societal norms, or the broader recognition of the condition, more adults are finally receiving the help and recognition they need.

By continuing to raise awareness and improve diagnostic practices, we can ensure that people on the autism spectrum, regardless of age, receive the support and understanding they deserve.