When it comes to autism, people often think of it as something that’s diagnosed during childhood. While autism can be diagnosed as early as age two, there are several cases where adults are being diagnosed as awareness of the disorder grows. It’s also partly because of how autism is currently defined, which may have differed than how it was during a person’s childhood, notes VeryWell Health.
It’s possible that you may be on the spectrum if you suspect so, even if it wasn’t recognized during your earlier years. However, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can mimic some other conditions in adults, so let’s take a closer look at the specific symptoms and other things to know…
Difficulty Relating To Others
Adults with ASD may find it difficult to communicate with others and read social cues, notes Healthline. That could mean not being about to follow a conversation (and the subtleties of what someone is saying), or being unable to read a person’s body language to gauge how they’re reacting to what you’re saying, it adds.
The source also notes you may end up inventing your own words and phrases (that others may not understand), or you don’t change your tone or inflection depending on who you’re talking to (for example, a professional vs. a social interaction.) Because of these challenges, forming bonds with others can be a challenge, it adds.