Are You An Adult With Autism? Here Are 6 Signs
Autism is typically diagnosed in childhood, but did you know that you or a loved one could be an adult with autism without even realizing it?
Because the autism spectrum is so very diverse, individuals may not associate that they have a disorder; only that they may feel “different.”
Understanding adult with autism signs—and even getting diagnosed with the disorder as a teenager or an adult at any stage in life—can make a significant difference with living your best life possible going forward.
While I’m not sure at what age they were diagnosed with autism, it seems that more celebrities are “coming out” publicly lately that they are on the autism spectrum. The adult autism test seems to be one of acceptance and ownership of having the condition, which I take as a good sign as part of autism affirming movements.
One of the most recent adult to make this announcement is Australian singer Sia, who has publicly stated that she was recently diagnosed as an adult with autism. 
As part of her adult with autism signs, she also talked about having to “put her human suit on,” which has been explained as masking/camouflaging.
There are numerous intricacies of being an adult with autism, and while I am not a medical expert and a doctor is the one who can make an official assessment, there are key adult with autism signs that can help identify the brain development disorder.
There are numerous traits that point to a person being an adult with autism and may not even know it. Common adult with autism signs include social difficulties with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, rigid thinking and routine, special interests and hyperfocus, communications differences, and executive functioning issues.
READ MORE: Autism Adult Assessment – Why It’s Never Too Late to Be Diagnosed
Learn more about these adult with autism signs below.
6 Signs You Could Be An Undiagnosed Adult with Autism
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Social Difficulties: Navigating the Social Maze
One of the primary signs of autism in adults lies in their social interactions.
Undiagnosed adults with autism often struggle with understanding social cues, body language, and the unspoken rules of social engagement.
They may find it challenging to maintain eye contact, engage in reciprocal conversation, or interpret subtle emotions.
That’s not to say an adult with autism can’t have a sense of humor (many of us are witty and even sarcastic, although we may not pick up sarcasm in others).
Adults with autism may feel socially isolated, experience difficulties in making and maintaining friendships, and feel overwhelmed in social settings. Recognizing these challenges can provide valuable insights into the possibility of autism.
RELATED: Unveiling Hidden Struggles – Top 10 Autism Challenges Explored
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Sensory Sensitivities: Experiencing the World Differently
Sensory sensitivities are common in individuals with autism, and these sensitivities can provide clues to its presence in adults.
Undiagnosed adults with autism may experience heightened sensitivities to sensory stimuli such as light, sound, touch, or textures.
They may become overwhelmed in crowded places, struggle with loud noises, or find certain textures of clothing uncomfortable.
These sensitivities can significantly impact their daily lives, leading to behavioral adaptations or avoidance of certain environments.
READ MORE: Crowds Phobia and Autism – How to Tame Anxiety Overload -
Rigid Thinking and Routine: Embracing Predictability
Another sign of autism in adults lies in their tendency towards rigid thinking patterns and a strong need for routine.
Adults with autism may exhibit a profound preference for predictability and sameness. They may find it challenging to adapt to changes in their environment or daily schedule, even to the point of becoming distressed or anxious when confronted with unexpected situations.
A rigid adherence to specific rituals or a preference for repetitive behaviors can be an indication of autism in adults.
Now, this doesn’t at all mean that rigidity is something all adults with autism have.
In many cases, while an adult with autism may prefer routine or sameness, he/she can adapt to changes, although it an affect their mood or ability to connect with others until they are able to process the new routine.
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Special Interests and Hyperfocus: Passion Unleashed
Adults with undiagnosed autism may display intense interest in specific subjects or hobbies. They may develop a laser-like focus and immerse themselves entirely in their chosen area of interest, often to the exclusion of other activities or topics.
This hyperfocus can be one of many telltale adult with autism signs, representing a deep and passionate dedication to a particular area.
Recognizing these special interests can provide valuable insights into the possibility of being an adult with autism.
I think it’s important to add that this very hyperfocus is what often makes adults with autism an attractive worker in an environment that requires great attention to details.
In career fields like IT or research, for example, some employers actually look for adults with autism because of their ability to retain intense focus for a long period of time.
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Communication Differences: Unveiling the Language of Autism
Communication differences can be key indicators adult with autism signs. Individuals on the autism spectrum may struggle with understanding non-literal language, such as idioms, sarcasm, or metaphorical expressions.
Difficulties with expressive language, including limited vocabulary or unusual speech patterns, may also be present.
Additionally, adults with undiagnosed autism may exhibit echolalia, the repetition of words or phrases they have heard. While communication challenges are a consideration, not all adults with autism have them and to think otherwise is a stereotype that isn’t true.
In fact, some autistic individuals are extremely social under the right circumstances, although friends and loved ones may note that sometimes the conversations can appear to be a bit odd.
Some adults with autism may be so focused on a particular topic that interests them, that they interject their thoughts into a conversation that may be on a different subject altogether.
By paying attention to communication nuances, potential signs of autism can be noted, and potentially diagnosed.
READ MORE: Autism Inferencing and Body Language Hurdles to Overcome -
Executive Functioning Issues: Managing the Complexity of Life
Executive functioning refers to a set of cognitive skills that enable individuals to plan, organize, and manage tasks effectively.
Adults with undiagnosed autism may experience challenges in this area, affecting various aspects of their lives.
Difficulties with time management, prioritization, problem-solving, and task completion can all be indicators of executive functioning issues related to autism.
Recognizing these challenges can provide valuable insights into the presence of autism in adults.
RELATED: Is Autism a Disability? Surprising Reasons for the Debate
Understanding Adult with Autism Signs Can Lead to a More Inclusive Society
Understanding these 6 key adult with autism signs is essential for early identification and appropriate support. It’s like passing the adult autism test.
By recognizing the signs—social difficulties, sensory sensitivities, rigid thinking and routine, special interests and hyperfocus, communication differences, and executive functioning issues—we can build more inclusive and supportive society.
READ MORE: Social Justice Issues – Why Disability Rights Matter for Autistics
If you are an adult who struggles with these issues, and feel you may display some or many of these traits that can be considered as a basis of an adult autism test, you might consider talking with a doctor or therapist to see if autism is a possibility.
Remember, there is no simple adult autism test in general to determine if you have the disorder. There is no way to “see” autism from bloodwork or urinalysis.
Rather, it involves discussions of observation of behaviors and feelings and actions. But if a diagnosis of autism is an outcome, it can be transformative.
Knowing you are an adult with autism can help you to better navigate the rest of your life. However, whether you choose to explore whether you have autism is up to you.
You don’t need to know if you have autism or not in order to live. However, if you want support, you have to have received an official diagnosis.
The key is to connect with friends and loved ones and create a happy life for yourself. Through this journey of self-discovery, you might even find your flavor!
READ MORE: Do You Know Your Flavor of Autistic Spectrum Disorders
Adult with Autism: Living, Learning and Overcoming Challenges for a Fulfilled Life
Autism in adults requires additional support and coping skills to achieve independence in today’s world. Learn more about ways an adult with autism can live a fulfilled live and manage the many challenges faced.
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