Autism Spectrum Disorder, also known as simply “Autism” or “ASD”, is a developmental disability that affects the way a person communicates and socializes. The definition of autism has changed more than once over the century since it was first documented in the early 1940s. Over the decades, research has found that Autism encompasses a wide range of symptoms, that vary in severity and complexity—which is why Autism is now a spectrum disorder.
In other words, Autism is not a single condition. It is a range of conditions that encompass emotional, behavioral, sensory, and social symptoms from mild to severe. The rate of Autism diagnoses has increased in recent decades with the development of the spectrum. This is great news for many adults who have experienced symptoms since childhood and are now able to be properly diagnosed, meaning that they are finally able to get the treatment and support they have needed for years. Although there is no cure for Autism, there is a robust amount of treatment and support options now available that improve symptoms and quality of life for those diagnosed.
The more severe symptoms of Autism were first described in the 1940s, under the diagnosis of a rare form of childhood schizophrenia. Early researchers believed this was caused by “cold” mothers who had little emotional attachment to their children as infants. Knowing what we know now about the hereditary connection with Autism, it is more likely that these mothers suffered from Autism themselves. Without the proper treatment and support, they were unable to have emotional and behavioral responses that were considered neurotypical for that time period. Autism finally got a name in the 1980s, and research released in 1994 introduced the spectrum, which has continued to develop ever since.
Autism presents itself differently for each person—symptoms can also vary and change over time. It is now clinically easier to distinguish symptoms of Autism thanks to the widespread use of well-child visits to evaluate growth and developmental milestones. In some cases, a child can exhibit signs of Autism in infancy. Some of these early signs include the inability to make eye contact or smile. Most children who are diagnosed with Autism are diagnosed around 12-18 months when common symptoms like delayed speech, repetitive-movement behaviors, and poor play skills start to become more apparent. As an adult, it becomes harder to distinguish Autism from ADHD, especially with mild to moderate Autism.
Signs of Autism in adulthood include:
These communication and behavioral problems can lead to difficulties advancing in a career, making friends, maintaining relationships, and even dating. Many adults on the Autism Spectrum can also struggle with some symptoms of ADHD. It is important to note that being diagnosed with ADHD does not mean you are on the Autism Spectrum. There is a causal correlation between the two, but one does not cause the other. With both ADHD and ASD, you could experience:
For an adult with symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder, an official diagnosis brings a great sense of relief. Getting a diagnosis gives a name to the struggles you’ve had for years and opens the doors to treatments that will help you improve your quality of life. Treatments for ASD include a therapeutic combination of:
The first step in getting diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder is discussing your symptoms with a licensed medical or mental health provider. Medens Health can help you with specific testing for Autism Spectrum Disorder. If you or someone you know is in the Nevada or California areas and is struggling with symptoms of ASD, reach out to Medens Health via our contact page or by calling (833) 624-5400.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical or mental health. If you don’t currently have a therapist, we can connect you with one who is qualified to give you safe, professional, and ethical advice regarding your mental health.
If you or someone you are responsible for is experiencing a medical emergency, is considering harming themselves or others, or is otherwise in imminent danger, you should call 9-1-1 and/or take them to the nearest emergency room.
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