Autism is often considered a childhood condition. But today, more adults are being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. So, what’s behind the rise in adult diagnoses?
“It’s not just a sudden surge in new cases. We now have a clearer, broader definition of traits on the autism spectrum,” says Claire Grigaux, MD, an internal medicine physician at Atlantic Health. “For many, diagnosis can bring clarity to lifelong patterns that have gone unrecognized for years—even decades.”
What is adult autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects how children and adults interact socially, process information and experience the world.
The term spectrum is key. Autism presents differently in every person—from someone who lives independently but feels “different” in subtle ways, to another who needs significant support.
“Adult autism is the same condition as childhood autism,” says Dr. Grigaux. “If it is diagnosed later in life, it just means the traits were always there, even if they weren’t recognized.”
Why do so many adults go undiagnosed?
There are a few reasons why only the most severe cases were diagnosed in years past. Experts say these adults learned to compensate early on for social differences and their inability to “fit in.”
Four common signs of autism in adults
Autism looks different in everyone, but here are four common traits:
- Social and communication differences. Feeling socially out of sync and finding it difficult to maintain conversations and read facial expressions.
- Repetitive behaviors and routines. Relying on repetitive movements, needing structure and predictability and feeling distressed when plans change.
- Executive function difficulties. Difficulty with planning, organization and time management, and often forgetting commitments or staying on track with tasks.
- Internal experiences. Feeling different or “off’’ without knowing why, and becoming anxious or stressed in unpredictable social situations.
“Autism spectrum often overlaps with anxiety, depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD),” says Dr. Grigaux. “Many adults who seek help for anxiety or depression also discover that autism was always an underlying factor.”
Could it be autism?
While experiences vary, talk with your doctor if you are experiencing any of these common challenges:
- You’ve had lifelong social or behavioral difficulties
- You struggle with routines, communication or sensory input
- You feel anxiety or burnout trying to fit into your world
- You find it hard to meet work expectations
- You struggle with sensory environments (light, sound, temperature)
- You have trouble navigating social norms and maintaining relationships
How adult autism is diagnosed
Your primary care doctor can refer you to a psychologist or neurologist for an evaluation.
One of the most widely used tools for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder is the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2). This assessment tool involves an in-person evaluation to observe how you communicate, interact and respond to situations.
“For many adults, a diagnosis later in life can be the turning point that provides clarity and validation,” says Dr. Grigaux. “It also gives access to community and state support services and accommodations.”
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