intro
"Adult autism" refers to the presentation of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in individuals who have reached adulthood. It's important to understand that:
* ASD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition:
* This means that while the way autism presents may change over time, it doesn't disappear.
* Therefore, adults with autism have had autism since childhood, even if they were not diagnosed until later in life.
* Symptoms can vary widely:
* Autism is a spectrum, so adults will experience it in diverse ways.
* Some common characteristics include challenges with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests.
* Adults may have learned to mask symptoms:
* Many autistic adults, especially those diagnosed later in life, have developed strategies to "mask" or camouflage their autistic traits.
* This can make it harder to recognize, and can be very tiring for the person involved.
* Diagnosis can occur at any age:
* While autism is often diagnosed in childhood, increasing awareness means more adults are receiving diagnoses.
* This can lead to better understanding of themselves, and access to support.
Here are some common signs that autism may present in adults:
* Social communication and interaction:
* Difficulty understanding social cues, body language, and facial expressions.
* Challenges with maintaining conversations.
* Difficulty forming and maintaining relationships.
* Taking things very literally.
* Restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests:
* Strong adherence to routines.
* Intense focus on specific interests.
* Repetitive movements (stimming).
* Sensory sensitivities.
It is important to remember that every autistic adult is different.
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