Can Adults Get Diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum?

Yes, adults can get diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In the past, it was thought that ASD could only be diagnosed in children, but we now know that the symptoms of ASD can persist into adulthood. In fact, some adults may not realize they have ASD until they are diagnosed in adulthood.

There are a number of reasons why adults might not be diagnosed with ASD until adulthood. One reason is that the symptoms of ASD can vary from person to person, and some people may have very mild symptoms that don't interfere with their daily lives. Another reason is that ASD is often misdiagnosed as other conditions, such as social anxiety disorder, depression, or ADHD.

If you are an adult and you think you might have ASD, it's important to see a mental health professional for an evaluation. Diagnosis in adulthood is becoming increasingly common, and help and resources are available. If you are diagnosed with ASD, there are a number of things that you can do to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.