Debbie Do you suspect you might have autism? Are you trying to figure out if your grown child has it? Do you wonder how is autism diagnosed in adults?
Although autism can be diagnosed as early as 14 months into a person’s life, it’s not uncommon to receive the diagnosis as an adult.
If you’re nervous about the process of getting diagnosed, don’t worry. This guide is here to explain each step to make it easier!
Inner Observations and Questions
Diagnosing autism in adults isn’t as easy as it is in children. When a person makes it to adulthood without a diagnosis, they are often high-functioning. They’ve learned tricks and habits to compensate for any difficulties they face in day-to-day situations.
This is why the instigation of getting an autism diagnosis often sits with the person in question. You or your loved one will need to start questioning certain behaviors that make situations more difficult. These things include:
- Struggling to keep up with conversations
- Sensitivity to loud sounds or bright lights or unexpected touches
- Difficulty interpreting intentions
- Difficulty reading emotions or other social cues
- Hyper-focusing on a topic
- Developing certain motions to help deal with uncomfortable situations
Getting opinions from friends and family helps to a certain degree, but most of the realizations will come from your own observations.
Once you think about it from a critical viewpoint, it’s easier to realize that those coping mechanisms you use are a sign of something more.
Self-Testing
Sometimes we recognize these behaviors and coping mechanisms but still worry that we don’t fit the autism spectrum. That’s when many people turn to self-test questionnaires and other resources to learn more.
There are several tests available online that’ll give you a better idea if you should seek out a professional.
Keep in mind that these tests are tools to help you with autism diagnosis in adults but they don’t replace a doctor’s confirmation. These tools give you more clues about diagnosing autism but they can’t confirm your autism one way or the other.
Only a medical professional can give a proper diagnosis.
Seeking Professional Guidance
After you’ve noticed your behaviors and you’ve done a self-test, it’s time to talk to a doctor. They’ll have the expertise to run through a variety of different tests that’ll determine whether or not you have autism.
They’ll also help you learn more about where you sit on the spectrum and how to move forward with this new information, such as getting started with the right therapies and medications.
A great place to start is with these services that’ll give you all the support you need to continue living your best life!
Understanding How Is Autism Diagnosed in Adults Makes The Process Easier
With this guide, you’ll never need to worry about how is autism diagnosed in adults and you’ll know how to go through the process. Even if the diagnosis comes later in life for you or someone in your family, there are many options available.
A happy and healthy life is in the cards for everyone!
Make sure to check out the rest of the blog to learn everything you need to know to keep your family healthy and happy no matter their age!
