Autism diagnosed as an adult?

LadyMuck People with autism are completely withdrawn from the world and cannot inter-act with other people.

That is a very old fashioned definition of autism. It is realise nowadays that autism, like the other problems of that kind is a spectrum that runs from shades of grey. Being autistic is very different from just being quiet and self contained.

I was diagnosed as dyspraxia when I was in my 40s. Up until then I was just considered careless and clumsy, someone who just needed to be more careful. The relief of discovering that there was a reason for my 'carelessness' and 'clumsiness' was immense. Knowing the problem also helped me deal with it.

I am sure this is exactly the same for the adult diagnosed with autism. Knwing what the problem is, is a relief in itself, being able to then tackle some of the problems the autism presents is an even greater relief.

Here's a link to a test. It might help the OP to decide upon whether a proper diagnosis might be useful.

Jane10 knows where of she speaks Bungalowlady get some help and advice, maybe a diagnosis. At least your mind will be at rest, it won't change anything but if you are on the autistic spectrum you will know why you feel and behave as you do.
Good luck.

My DD was diagnosed last summer, when she was 36. Having had four children, all with differing ASDs she was pleased to find out that she also is on the spectrum, and now understands why she is as she is.

ladymuck I suggest you find out a bit more about autism and neurodevelopmental conditions.

So now being shy is a mental health problem?
I wonder what is the definition of normal?
One of the big problems in modern society is that we live such unnatural lives. I think a lot of what are regarded as problems are actually an inability to function in the modern world.

Many people with autism are extremely extroverted by the way but get their interaction wrong with other people.
Autism is not just being shy!!

ladymuck
Sorry I disagree with your last paragraph in particular. Autism is a complete spectrum of symptoms not all autistics are withdrawn. In fact at the centre my son attends there are a couple of guys who are the complete opposite.
If you've seen one person with ASD you've seen one.

ladymuck there is far more to autism than you seem to think. Diagnosis is fairly technical and includes many more factors than those that you mention.

blueberry my son had been referred for NHS assessment as an adult but it was 2 yr waiting list so we paid for a psychologist to assess him.
Full report of the diagnosis in writing for approx £70 5-6 yrs ago.

I wonder if this can really be classed as autism? To my mind, it is simply having an introverted personality. We are not all gregarious, outgoing people, and I think those who are quiet and anti-social shouldn't be labelled and made to feel they have a medical problem.
I'm a very quiet person, I have always preferred my own company but have never felt there was something wrong with me.
People with autism are completely withdrawn from the world and cannot inter-act with other people. Not the definition of an introvert, who keep to themselves out of choice.

My son was diagnosed at about 24. He was relieved to know why he "felt socially inadiquate" (his words) and thought differently.
We suggested getting a diagnosis and he was all for it.
It has also helped with his benefit claim as he is unable to find anyone willing to employ him. He dosen't need to make X amount of job applications a week as others do.

I have the same problem in getting diagnosis. 2 of my grandsons have been diagnosed but when I asked my GP for a referral to be diagnosed myself she said that there was nowhere to refer adults to. She even suggested that it would make no difference at my age (64) as I have obviously learnt to live with it. I also asked a psychiatrist and she said the same thing.
I think that this is appalling given that we are supposed to be able to be assessed if we wish,according to guidelines I have read. There is a big push towards more understanding of mental health conditions at the moment and yet I cannot have assessment.
The only other way forward is to go to a private service,which I cannot afford. I hope you have better luck with your GP,it is possible that this varies according to the area you live in.

I have a middle aged friend diagnosed and the only gain is she’s no longer thinking she’s a freak she knows now there is a reason she can’t be a party animal why she is pedantic about some things and why she isn’t terrible good at socialising She’s at peace with her differences and no longer worrying and trying to make herself step outside her comfort zone
I guess we are all somewhere on the spectrum

No expertise to share, just wanted to wish you well, I hope that you get some answers that help you

I don't think you gain anything but a different perspective on yourself which can be very helpful. I should also say that every woman I diagnosed was very anxious. This is understandable as they were trying to cope in a neurotypical world. Understanding that helped. I could write forever on this topic. Women with AS was my doctoral thesis.

I actually feel I could very well be. Even my DH has mentioned it so do you gain anything by a firm diagnosis? Will check the NAS website thanks Jane10

My friend in her forties has just been diagnosed, she was happy in her job and relationship before her diagnosis but the diagnosis itself has helped her to make sense of herself. In so many little ways. I would prepare yourself for a long waiting list , she went private I am afraid. Good luck

Hello. There no cure. It's not an illness. Before retiring I was with an NHS adult autism diagnostic team. Our average age of referral was 38 and the oldest diagnosed was 84.
When I interviewed woman who's been diagnosed they all said that they found diagnosis to be a huge relief. It was an explanation for a lifetime of feeling different. Once they understood their particular difficulties we could work to identify strategies to help them manage them. Often simple things like just not going to the staff night out or straightforward information to give workmates etc etc. There's lots of info out there. Check the NAS website. You could print out their info for GPS sheet to take with you.
Good luck!