Seven Signs of Undiagnosed Autism in Adults

Undiagnosed autism in adults is more common than many people realize. If you look at diagnosis rates of children today, you'll see that statistically there is likely at least one autistic child in every classroom. This doesn't indicate an epidemic; rather, it shows that many adults grew up without the awareness and diagnostic tools available today. Understanding the signs of autism can help in recognizing it in adults who may have gone undiagnosed.

1. Social Interaction Difficulties

One of the most significant indicators of undiagnosed autism is difficulty in social interactions. Adults on the spectrum often find it challenging to intuitively understand social cues and norms, leading to:

Avoiding social gatherings: Social interactions can be mentally exhausting and stressful.

Preferring solitude: Spending time alone is more manageable than navigating social complexities.

Appearing awkward or eccentric: Difficulty fitting in can lead to being perceived as different or unusual.

These difficulties arise because they often have to consciously process social cues, making socializing a taxing effort.

2. Need for Structure and Routine

A strong preference for structure and routine is another common sign. Adults with autism often rely on routine to manage their daily lives and reduce anxiety. This can manifest in two ways:

Rigidity: Sticking to routines and resisting changes.

Disorganization: Appearing chaotic without a clear structure.

These behaviors stem from challenges with executive function, where routine helps manage daily tasks and decisions. Disruptions can lead to significant stress and disorganization.

3. Sensory Sensitivities and Insensitivities

Sensory processing differences are a hallmark of autism. This includes both hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity to sensory stimuli:

Over-sensitivity: Light, sound, taste, texture, and smell can be overwhelming.

Under-sensitivity: High tolerance for pain or seeking deep pressure.

These differences can affect daily life, including physical coordination and social interactions, as individuals might respond unusually to sensory input.

4. Spiky Skill Set

Many adults with undiagnosed autism exhibit a spiky skill set, where they have exceptional abilities in certain areas while struggling significantly in others:

Outstanding performance: Excelling in specific tasks or subjects.

Difficulty with everyday activities: Struggling with tasks like cooking or using technology.

For example, someone might excel in a particular sport or hobby while finding it nearly impossible to remember dates or manage daily tasks.

5. Emotional Regulation Issues

Emotional regulation can be particularly challenging, often resulting in:

Meltdowns: Intense emotional outbursts in response to stress or sensory overload.

Shutdowns: Withdrawing completely and becoming non-responsive.

Withdrawal: Avoiding interactions and retreating to a safe space.

These reactions are mechanisms to cope with overwhelming situations, often leading to challenges in personal relationships and daily functioning.

6. Unusual Associations and Mental Jumps

Adults with autism often make unique connections and associations that others might not:

Unconventional references: Making esoteric or literal interpretations during conversations.

Mental jumps: Linking concepts in ways that seem unrelated to others.

These unusual mental jumps can be both a source of creativity and a barrier to effective communication, as their thought processes might not align with those of neurotypical individuals.

7. Just a Bit Different

Sometimes, the most apparent sign is a general sense of being different:

Standing out in social situations: Feeling like the odd one out.

Uniqueness: Perceived as quirky or eccentric.

This difference can be perceived positively, negatively, or neutrally, but it often leads to a sense of isolation or uniqueness common among adults with undiagnosed autism.

Conclusion

Recognizing these signs in yourself or others can be the first step toward understanding and embracing an autistic identity. If these signs resonate with you, seeking a professional evaluation can provide clarity and access to supportive resources. Being part of a community of individuals who share similar experiences can also be profoundly validating and helpful. Understanding and accepting undiagnosed autism in adults can lead to a more fulfilling and self-aware life.