Therapy Near Me Mental Health Articles

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals perceive and interact with the world. While it is often diagnosed in childhood, many adults may live with undiagnosed autism, experiencing difficulties in social interaction, communication, and behavioural flexibility without understanding the root cause. This article explores the signs of undiagnosed autism in adults, the potential impact of late diagnosis, and steps to seek a formal diagnosis, supported by scientific research and expert insights.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is characterised by persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction, along with restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities. The term “spectrum” reflects the wide range of symptoms and severity that individuals with autism can experience (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

ASD affects approximately 1 in 70 people in Australia, with a significant number of cases going undiagnosed, especially in adults (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2019).

Adults with undiagnosed autism may experience challenges in social situations. Common signs include:

• Difficulty Understanding Social Cues: Struggling to interpret body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice (Baron-Cohen et al., 1997).
• Challenges in Forming and Maintaining Relationships: Finding it hard to initiate and sustain friendships or romantic relationships (Lai et al., 2015).
• Preference for Solitude: Feeling more comfortable when alone or engaging in solitary activities (Wing, 1992).

Communication difficulties are a hallmark of autism. Adults with undiagnosed autism might exhibit:

• Literal Interpretation of Language: Taking figurative language, idioms, and sarcasm literally (Happé, 1995).
• Monotone or Unusual Speech Patterns: Speaking in a flat tone or with atypical rhythm and intonation (Baron-Cohen, 2000).
• Difficulty in Conversation: Struggling with back-and-forth conversation and interrupting others frequently (Tager-Flusberg & Joseph, 2003).

Many adults with autism engage in repetitive behaviours and have highly focused interests:

• Ritualistic Behaviour: Relying on routines and rituals to manage daily life (Leekam et al., 2007).
• Intense Focus on Specific Topics: Developing deep, narrow interests in particular subjects (Attwood, 2007).
• Sensory Sensitivities: Being highly sensitive to sensory stimuli such as lights, sounds, textures, or smells (Ben-Sasson et al., 2009).

Living with undiagnosed autism can lead to various psychological and emotional challenges:

• Mental Health Issues: Higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions due to misunderstanding and unmet needs (Lever & Geurts, 2016).
• Low Self-Esteem: Struggling with self-identity and feeling different from others without understanding why (Muller et al., 2008).

Undiagnosed autism can also affect social and professional life:

• Social Isolation: Difficulties in social interaction can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation (Howlin, 2000).
• Employment Challenges: Struggling with workplace dynamics, communication, and adapting to change can hinder career progression (Hurlbutt & Chalmers, 2004).

If you suspect you might have undiagnosed autism, consider the following steps:

1. Self-Reflection and Research: Reflect on your experiences and read about ASD to see if the symptoms resonate with you.
2. Online Self-Assessments: Tools like the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) can provide initial insights but should not replace a professional evaluation (Baron-Cohen et al., 2001).
3. Consult Your GP: Discuss your concerns with your general practitioner, who can refer you to a specialist.

A formal diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. The assessment may include:

• Developmental History: Gathering detailed information about your developmental milestones and behaviour.
• Behavioural Observations: Observing your interactions and behaviours.
• Standardised Assessments: Using diagnostic tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) (Lord et al., 2000).

A formal diagnosis can provide clarity and validation for your experiences, helping you understand yourself better and explain past challenges (Hurlbutt & Chalmers, 2002).

Diagnosis opens the door to various supports and resources, including:

• Therapeutic Interventions: Access to therapies that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life (Lord et al., 2018).
• Support Groups: Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice (Attwood, 2007).

Recognising the signs of undiagnosed autism in adulthood is the first step towards seeking a formal diagnosis and accessing the support you need. If you suspect you might have autism, consider self-reflection, consulting a healthcare professional, and undergoing a comprehensive evaluation. Understanding and addressing autism can significantly enhance your well-being and quality of life.

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
• Attwood, T. (2007). The Complete Guide to Asperger’s Syndrome. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
• Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2019). Autism in Australia. Retrieved from https://www.abs.gov.au/
• Baron-Cohen, S. (2000). Theory of mind and autism: A review. International Review of Research in Mental Retardation, 23, 169-184.
• Baron-Cohen, S., Leslie, A. M., & Frith, U. (1997). Does the autistic child have a “theory of mind”? Cognition, 21(1), 37-46.
• Baron-Cohen, S., Wheelwright, S., Skinner, R., Martin, J., & Clubley, E. (2001). The Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ): Evidence from Asperger syndrome/high-functioning autism, males and females, scientists and mathematicians. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 31(1), 5-17.
• Ben-Sasson, A., Hen, L., Fluss, R., Cermak, S. A., Engel-Yeger, B., & Gal, E. (2009). A meta-analysis of sensory modulation symptoms in individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 39(1), 1-11.
• Happé, F. (1995). The role of age and verbal ability in the theory of mind task performance of subjects with autism. Child Development, 66(3), 843-855.
• Howlin, P. (2000). Outcome in adult life for more able individuals with autism or Asperger syndrome. Autism, 4(1), 63-83.
• Hurlbutt, K., & Chalmers, L. (2002). Adults with autism speak out: Perceptions of their life experiences. Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities, 17(2), 103-111.
• Hurlbutt, K., & Chalmers, L. (2004). Employment and adults with Asperger syndrome. Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities, 19(4), 215-222.
• Lai, M. C., Lombardo, M. V., & Baron-Cohen, S. (2015). Autism. The Lancet, 383(9920), 896-910.
• Leekam, S. R., Prior, M. R., & Uljarevic, M. (2007). Restricted and repetitive behaviors in autism spectrum disorders: A review of research in the last decade. Psychological Bulletin, 133(4), 562-593.
• Lever, A. G., & Geurts, H. M. (2016). Psychiatric co-occurring symptoms and disorders in young, middle-aged, and older adults with autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 46(6), 1916-1930.
• Lord, C., Elsabbagh, M., Baird, G., & Veenstra-Vanderweele, J. (2018). Autism spectrum disorder. The Lancet, 392(10146), 508-520.
• Lord, C., Rutter, M., DiLavore, P. C., & Risi, S. (2000). Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). Western Psychological Services.
• Muller, E., Schuler, A., & Yates, G. B. (2008). Social challenges and supports from the perspective of individuals with Asperger syndrome and other autism spectrum disabilities. Autism, 12(2), 173-190.
• Tager-Flusberg, H., & Joseph, R. M. (2003). Identifying neurocognitive phenotypes in autism. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 358(1430), 303-314.
• Wing, L. (1992). Manifestations of social problems in high-functioning autistic people. In E. Schopler & G. B. Mesibov (Eds.), High-functioning individuals with autism (pp. 129-142). Springer.

How to get in touch

If you or your patient/NDIS clients need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.