Exploring Autism: An In-Depth Look Into Who Diagnoses & Symptoms

Autism is a complex, pervasive developmental disorder that affects people in different ways and to various degrees of severity. Early diagnosis is key for improving outcomes, so it’s important to be aware of the diagnostic criteria and common symptoms found in adults with autism spectrum disorder. Here, we provide an overview of what autism is about and discuss who diagnoses it, as well as signs of autism in adults.

What is Autism?

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a group of spectrum disorders that can have different impacts on an individual’s social and communication skills. People with autism often have difficulty understanding how people think and feel, leading to common signs and symptoms such as repetitive behaviours, feeling overwhelmed by sensory input, and difficulty interacting socially. It is important to note that the range of characteristics associated with autism can vary significantly from person to person. Diagnosis of autism involves a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified professional such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. The evaluation includes observations of behaviour, language development, motor skills, cognitive functioning, family history and other medical information. If you are concerned about yourself or someone you know having autism spectrum disorder it is important to seek out professional advice from appropriate support services in your area rather than relying on media sources for diagnosis. With the correct intervention strategies tailored to individual needs most people living with ASD can lead meaningful lives according to their own interests and support needs.

Diagnosis of Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a spectrum disorder characterized by difficulties in communication, social interaction and restricted or repetitive behavior. Symptoms include difficulty with attention deficit, hyperactivity disorder, inability to understand certain behaviors and traits, limited communication skills and repetitive behaviors. Adults may also have minor problems such as anxiety or depression due to the challenges associated with autism spectrum. The diagnosis of autism is made by a multi-disciplinary team of professionals including doctors, psychologists and speech pathologists who can assess for any signs of the disorder. They will look for signs such as difficulty interacting socially or engaging in certain types of behavior that are typical for people on the autism spectrum. 

 

Children without autism may resemble attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or other health disorders. The symptoms of autism in adults can include impaired spoken language, difficulty making friends and engaging in social situations, and repetitive behaviors such as hand flapping. ASD symptoms may also include hyperactivity, difficulty with change and transitions, and problems following directions. Autism research is ongoing to better understand the causes of the disorder and to develop effective treatments for those with severe forms of autism. Autistic adults often face challenges that require medical or therapeutic intervention to help them function more effectively in daily life. Some autistic adults may require support from family members or caregivers to manage their day-to-day activities. 

 

Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning it can range from mild to severe. People with mild autism often have fewer symptoms and better social skills than those with more severe forms of the disorder. They may also display certain unusual behaviors, such as increased sensitivity to noise or light, and difficulty in social situations. On the other hand, people with more severe forms of autism may have greater difficulty communicating and need more support options for daily living tasks. Common traits seen across all levels of the autism spectrum include difficulty forming relationships, communication problems, and restricted interests or behaviors. Many adults on the spectrum also experience sensory issues like oversensitivity to certain sounds or textures. Fortunately, there are many support options available for adults on the autism spectrum to help them thrive in their everyday lives. 

 

Autistic adults have their own unique personalities and challenges which can be addressed through a variety of treatments. In recent years, the expanded diagnostic criteria for autism has been applied to adulthood autism, allowing more adults to be diagnosed with the condition. To further study this phenomenon, a new study on autistic adults using online surveys was conducted to gain insight into how these people view themselves and others. This research found that many autistic adults experience psychiatric conditions in addition to difficulties in social communication and interaction skills as part of their overall personality disorder. The results of this study help reinforce the validity of the expanded diagnostic criteria for autism, as it includes symptoms from both childhood and adulthood. 

Resources and further reading available:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326841

https://autismawarenesscentre.com/am-i-autistic-a-guide-to-diagnosis-for-adults/

https://thespectrum.org.au/autism-diagnosis/checklist-adults/

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/autism-learning-disabilities/autism-in-adults.htm 

https://www.spectrumnews.org/news/autism-diagnosis-in-adulthood-tied-to-increased-burden-of-psychiatric-conditions/ 

https://ada.com/signs-of-autism/ 

https://www.verywellhealth.com/diagnosing-autism-or-asperger-syndrome-in-adults-259946 

https://www.additudemag.com/autism-spectrum-disorder-in-adults/ 

https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/mild-autism-adults/ 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/autism-spectrum-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20352928

https://www.healthline.com/health/autism-in-adults 

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