The diagnosis of autism in adulthood is a challenge that affects thousands of people who, for years, have lived without understanding their own difficulties and differences. Identifying autism at this stage of life is a complex process that involves self -knowledge, professional evaluation and acceptance. Unfortunately, late diagnosis is still common, generating emotional, social and functional impacts on the lives of individuals.
Reasons for late diagnoses of autism in adulthood
Late diagnosis of autism in adulthood occurs by several factors, the main lack of knowledge of society and health professionals about the. For a long time, it was believed that autism was manifested only in childhood and that its characteristics were visible only in extreme behaviors, such as the complete absence of obvious repetitive speech or repetitive behaviors.
In addition, limited understanding of autism in adults generated a stigma that associated disorder with severe and disabling deficits, disregarding nuances and spectrum variations. This ignorance has resulted in the neglect of subtle signs that are often ignored or misunderstood as emotional issues or personality traits.
Prejudice and lack of proper training on the part of health professionals also make it difficult. Many autistic adults undergo medical consultations and therapies for years without receiving proper diagnosis, facing frustration and lack of direction to effective treatment.
Emotional and social impacts of late diagnosis
Discovering autism in adulthood is, for many, a liberating process, but it can also be emotionally challenging. People who receive diagnosis at this stage often report feelings of relief because they finally understand their difficulties and behaviors that were previously considered challenging or socially undesirable.
On the other hand, late diagnosis can also generate, especially when the person realizes that he has spent years facing challenges without the necessary support. Questions such as depression, anxiety and low self -esteem are common in autistic adults who have not been diagnosed in childhood.
In addition, the lack of an early diagnosis compromises social inclusion and adaptation in educational and professional environments. Many autistic adults report difficulties in maintaining jobs, building relationships and participating in social activities due to lack of understanding and specialized support.
How to recognize Signs of ASD in adulthood
Identifying autism in adulthood requires attention to a number of signs that may not be obvious but interfere with quality of life. Some of the main indicators include:
- Difficulty in interpreting facial expressions, tone of voice and body language;
- Preference for rigid routines and difficulty dealing with unexpected changes;
- Hyperfoco in specific interests, which are often deepened with great dedication;
- Increased or decreased sensitivity to sensory stimuli (lights, sounds, textures);
- Difficulty starting and maintaining social and loving relationships;
- Intense social anxiety and need for isolation periods to recharge.
Recognizing these signs is essential for the diagnosis to be made properly. Specialized professional follow -up is essential for a complete assessment and the correct direction of the necessary treatment and support.
*Text written by Occupational Therapist Silvia Neri Marinho (Crefito 3 14036-TO), specialist in applied behavior analysis, co-founder of the formare clinic and member of Brazil Health
