Is It Possible for an Adult with High-Functioning Autism to Receive a Diagnosis and Treatment?

Diagnosing high-functioning autism in adults can be challenging, as the criteria for autism are often perceived as binary. Those who exhibit ‘strong autistic traits’ but do not meet the full diagnostic criteria are frequently left in limbo, described improperly as “not autistic” despite exhibiting significant autistic traits. However, it is indeed possible for adults with high-functioning autism to receive a diagnosis, and many do so later in life.

Diagnostic Challenges

The diagnostic process for high-functioning autism can be tricky and often leads to misclassification. Most people in society regard autism as a binary condition: either autistic or not autistic. This binary view fails to recognize the spectrum nature of autism, leading to a lack of recognition for individuals who fall in the grey area between typical and fully autistic.

Another layer of complexity is the issue of autism and ADHD. While ADHD is recognized and understood, the co-occurrence of autism and ADHD, often referred to as AuDHD (Autism and ADHD), is less recognized. These individuals are in a unique category, as both conditions significantly affect each other, and proper diagnosis and understanding of these conditions are crucial for effective management and support.

Treatment Options

A key point to note is that there is no specific treatment for autism itself. The focus lies on managing the co-morbid conditions that often accompany autism, such as depression or anxiety, which can be effectively treated with medications like anti-depressants. However, these treatments do not alter the core nature of autism. Many autistic individuals prefer to embrace their traits and do not seek interventions for their autistic characteristics.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) offers some coping strategies that can help manage overwhelming situations, but it cannot change the fundamental aspects of autism. The primary goal of therapy in this context is to equip individuals with tools to navigate their unique challenges effectively, reducing the impact of these challenges rather than attempting to modify core traits.

Personal Experience

Diagnosing autism in adults can indeed be a journey. One individual shared their experience: "I received my diagnosis at nearly 40 years old. Treatment primarily involves learning new skills. There is no pill that can 'fix' it." This perspective highlights the emphasis on adaptation and skill acquisition rather than altering the core nature of autism.

Another individual provided a more detailed account: "I was originally diagnosed with a learning disability as a child. My mother didn't think that was the correct diagnosis, even though math and physical education were my worst subjects. When I was using vocational rehabilitation to get a job that I eventually got fired from, they told me to file for disability. This is when I learned I had autism. Well, my mother kept the diagnosis from me until I put my foot down, and I wanted to know whether or not I had it. So, we had me tested at a place called TEAACH, run by the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. The lady who led the diagnostic team was invited by the Japanese government to speak about autism. I was in my 30’s when these events happened, and I'm 54 now. As for treatment, there is more support available if you are under 35, but nothing after, and that is frustrating."

Understandably, the lack of systematic treatment for autism can be disheartening, especially for adults who were diagnosed later in life. Nonetheless, the focus should be on accepting and managing the challenges associated with autism, rather than attempting to change one's core traits.

Conclusion

While autism remains elusive to a specific treatment in adults, diagnosis and management remain crucial for improving quality of life. Recognizing and supporting the unique needs of high-functioning autistic adults can lead to significant improvements in their daily lives. If you or a loved one suspect autism, early diagnosis and appropriate support can make a substantial difference.