What If You’ve Been Autistic All Along? Understanding Adult Diagnosis

For decades, autism was primarily understood as a childhood diagnosis. Today, a growing number of adults are recognizing autistic traits in themselves—many for the first time. Thanks to broader diagnostic criteria, shifting social narratives, and the rise of neurodivergent-led communities, more people are seeking answers that were long overlooked.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Could I be autistic?”, you’re not alone. Adults across all backgrounds—especially those who’ve been misdiagnosed or masked their traits for years—are exploring this question with curiosity and courage.

Why Are More Adults Seeking an Autism Diagnosis?

Adults pursue an autism diagnosis for many reasons. Some of the most common include:

1. Greater Awareness and Updated Criteria
With the release of the DSM-5 in 2013 (which folded Asperger’s and PDD-NOS into Autism Spectrum Disorder), many people who never fit older stereotypes began to recognize themselves. Awareness of how autism presents in women, racialized individuals, and high-masking adults has dramatically increased, enabling more accurate and inclusive assessments.

2. Burnout from Masking and Misdiagnosis
Many autistic adults have spent years performing neurotypical behavior to fit in often at the cost of their mental health. This process, known as masking, can lead to autistic burnout: emotional exhaustion, shutdowns, and a loss of coping capacity. Without understanding the root cause, many are misdiagnosed with anxiety, depression, or OCD, and conventional treatments may fall short.

3. Challenges in Work and School
Autistic adults may find work or education systems overwhelming, particularly around executive function, communication, or sensory regulation. Diagnosis can unlock access to accommodations—like noise-cancelling tools, written instructions, or flexible deadlines—that make a significant difference in functioning and wellbeing.

4. A Family Member’s Diagnosis Sparks Recognition
It’s common for adults to recognize their own autistic traits after a child or partner receives a diagnosis. Increased visibility in one family member often brings intergenerational neurodivergence into focus.

5. A Desire for Validation and Self-Understanding
Many adults seek a diagnosis not for external approval, but for internal clarity. They want to make sense of their past, understand their needs, and approach life with more compassion. A diagnosis can be a framework—not a limitation—for healing and belonging.

What the Research Says: Key Insights from a Scoping Review

A 2020 review titled “Diagnosis of Autism in Adulthood: A Scoping Review” (Huang et al.) examined how autism is diagnosed in adults and what the process entails. Key findings include:

1. Diagnosis Rates Vary Widely
Autism is significantly underdiagnosed in adults. Although an estimated 2–2.5% of the global population is autistic, only 0.01% of adults carry a formal diagnosis—compared to 2.8% of 10–14-year-olds. Gender, age, masking, and co-occurring conditions all impact diagnostic outcomes.

2. Barriers to Diagnosis Are Common
Adults often face long waitlists, a lack of trained clinicians, and limited access to adult-specific tools. Many spend years pursuing answers before finding an accurate diagnosis.

3. Gendered Gaps in Recognition
Traditional diagnostic tools were created with male presentations in mind. Women, nonbinary individuals, and those who mask well are often overlooked or misdiagnosed. Gender-based bias remains a significant barrier.

4. Diverse Strengths and Struggles
Autistic adults present with a wide range of traits—from intense focus and creativity to sensory overload and executive dysfunction. Recognizing this diversity is essential for providing individualized support.

5. Co-Occurring Conditions Are Common
Mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and OCD frequently co-occur with autism. So do physical health issues like gastrointestinal problems and sleep disruptions. A holistic, trauma-informed lens is crucial.

6. Emotional Impact of a Diagnosis
Receiving a diagnosis in adulthood can be profoundly validating. For some, it brings relief and self-recognition. For others, it brings grief over missed supports. Post-diagnostic care can help people integrate this new understanding into their life story.

Why a Diagnosis Can Be Life-Changing

Getting an autism diagnosis isn’t about chasing a label—it’s about unlocking a more accurate understanding of who you are.

It can offer:

• Clarity – Making sense of lifelong challenges through a neurodivergent lens

• Validation – Knowing your experiences are real and shared by others

• Self-Acceptance – Letting go of shame and embracing difference

• Access to Accommodations – Support in education, work, and daily life

• Connection – Finding community, language, and belonging

Your Next Step: Exploring Adult Autism Assessment

If any part of this resonates with you, consider exploring an adult autism assessment. Look for a qualified professional with experience working with adults—ideally one who understands co-occurring conditions like ADHD, burnout, or trauma. Assessment should feel supportive and collaborative, not pathologizing.

You may be surprised by how much finally “making sense” can change your life. Whether you’re seeking an assessment for workplace accommodations, therapy, community, or simply peace of mind—you deserve to be seen, understood, and supported.

Curious where to start?
Visit InFocus Counselling’s Autism Assessment page or reach out for a consultation.