The Challenges of Adult Autism
A developmental disorder that can differ in severity and how it manifests, autism spectrum disorder causes a number of behavioral, communication and social challenges. In some cases, people mistake ASD for learning disabilities.
If you’ve spent time with a child or an adult on the autism spectrum, you’ve probably noticed they react differently to the world. How can you tell if an adult may be experiencing ASD? He or she may exhibit these signs:
- Avoiding eye contact
- Sensitivity to light, noise or temperature
- Sleep problems
- Getting upset with a change in routine
- An intense or overly focused interest in a specific topic
- Difficulty holding a conversation
- Facial expressions or gestures that don’t match the situation
- Not adhering to social norms
- Not listening to or looking at people
- Repeating words or behaviors
If a family member consistently has these symptoms, schedule an appointment with a health care provider for a diagnosis and next steps. In an adult, ASD symptoms may overlap with signs of a behavioral health condition, such as ADHD or anxiety, so it’s essential to get an accurate diagnosis.
High-Functioning Autism
While people with ASD face many challenges, they can also have extraordinary strengths. For example, they can often remember detailed information for a long time. They may also excel in math, science, music or art. Even people with mild ASD symptoms might possess these strengths.
Severe cases of ASD typically make independent living difficult or even impossible. People with mild cases, however, are often very capable. Over 40% of individuals with ASD may also suffer from epilepsy or recurrent seizures which will require medications and ongoing follow up by a neurologist.
These people are often said to have high-functioning autism, an informal term for mild ASD symptoms. High-functioning people can speak, read, write and perform normal activities of daily living, allowing them to live on their own. Many with this level of autism would have previously been diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, which is no longer used as an autism diagnosis.
How to Help an Adult with Autism
Treatment of adult ASD may include medication to help relieve symptoms, such as hyperactivity, anxiety, attention problems or aggression. Sometimes health care providers recommend specialized therapies that focus on psychology, behavior and skill-building. These therapies can help people with ASD gain independence and learn social, communication and language skills.
At times, a person with ASD may have a stress reaction if confronted with information or emotions his or her brain is unable to process. In such instances, giving the person time and space to express discomfort may help resolve the situation. Sometimes, speaking calmly and gently using short words and phrases can help reach a distraught person with ASD. A health care provider, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist or therapist, can advise you about other strategies that make it easier to interact with an adult with autism.
