Is It Possible for Adults to Be Diagnosed with Autism or Asperger's After a Lifetime of Uncertainty?

The journey to a correct diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or Asperger's syndrome can be a long and often uncertain path. For many, the diagnosis is made during childhood or early adolescence when the signs become more apparent. However, the question remains: is it possible for adults to receive an accurate diagnosis years, even decades, after living their entire lives without understanding why they feel different from others?

The Mask of Adulthood

Many adults learn to mask their autistic traits in order to fit in and minimize social stress. They internalize their struggles, often due to the fear of being rejected or misunderstood. As a result, signs of ASD might be present, but they are often not overtly visible. This article explores the possibility and likelihood of an adult receiving a diagnosis after years of living undiagnosed.

A Personal Account

I remember a time when my parents assumed any difficulty I had in school was simply due to laziness. Tests for ASD had not yet been developed when I was young. My father’s assumption that I was either lazy or not trying devastated my self-esteem. I would try to discuss these issues with him, only to be laughed at.

In high school, a member of my church asked me if I had Asperger's syndrome, but I had no idea what that meant. It was only through a memorable episode of Law Order: SVU and its spin-off, Law Order: Trial by Jury, where a character with Asperger's was played by Alfred Molina, that I understood what they were referring to. The story mirrored my own experiences, making the diagnosis seem almost inevitable.

The Breaking Point Comes Later

Years later, when I met a single mother and her fiancé, I learned that one of her children was high functioning autistic and could still have meltdowns. This child instinctively gravitated towards me, seeking a more understanding and patient interaction than he had experienced before. His story was like a revelation, giving me insight into my own behavior and experiences.

I took several online assessments and was almost certain that I fell within the spectrum of Asperger's. Yet, despite these assessments and my personal realization, I have never received an official diagnosis. The lack of support for adults with ASD and the financial constraints have prevented me from obtaining one.

Behavior and Misunderstanding

My behavior was always considered somewhat different, even by family members. However, it was largely due to the fact that no one ever thought to look for an underlying condition. It was not until I began to research and understand the signs that I realized I might have ASD.

The question of whether an adult can be diagnosed with ASD or Asperger's after a lifetime of uncertainty is complex. While it is certainly possible, the path to diagnosis is not always straightforward. Factors such as maskers, internalized beliefs, and lack of awareness can make it difficult for individuals to receive the diagnosis they need.