Testing for autism spectrum update#

Roadmap to Self-Empowerment for Autistic Adults *Participants from The Nicholas Center appears in Tool Kit cover image.

Testing for autism spectrum update#

The original version of this guide was released in 2015 with a comprehensive review and update in 2023, led by a team of autistic adults, including outside contributors, with the help of Autism Speaks staff, board and advisory members. Self-Advocacy including asking for accommodations and disclosing your diagnosis.The American Disabilities Act and other legal protections.Co-occurring conditions and other common related issues like ADHD, GI issues, and autistic burnout, among others.Learn from other autistic adults who have walked down the path. In addition to explaining the clinical definition of autism, diagnosis, and services, supports and rights, the Adult Autism Diagnosis Tool Kit also amplifies the autistic adult voice and what living on the spectrum looks like. You are someone who loves or supports someone who fits one of the above.Your child was diagnosed and/or is being evaluated and you wonder about yourself.They may have trouble with social interactions and with interpreting and using. People with ASD may behave, interact and learn in ways that are different from other people. ASD is a developmental disability caused by differences in your child’s brain. Adults (22+) Looking for an autism specialist near you From local providers and resources to advice and personal stories - the Autism Speaks directory can help you find the autism services and information you need. An accurate medical diagnosis must be based on observation of the individual’s communication, social interaction, and their activities and interests. Autism, now called autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder. You recently found out that you were diagnosed with autism in childhood, but your parents/guardians did not disclose that to you. There are no medical tests, such as blood work or brain scans, for diagnosing Autism.You were seeking counseling or support for something else as an adult, and the clinician brought up autism.

You are an adult who recognizes you have autistic traits but are unsure what to do.

You are an adult currently seeking a diagnosis or were recently diagnosed with autism.

A guide for identifying autism in adults and figuring out what comes next Developed by autistic adults, this guide addresses what comes next if: