Being diagnosed with autism as an adult can be disorienting and isolating; however, if you can understand the condition and how it affects perceptions, relationships, and your relationship with the world in general, a happy and successful life is attainable. Through an introduction to the autism spectrum, and how the Level 1 diagnosis is characterised, the author draws on personal experiences to provide positive advice on dealing with life, health, and relationships following an adult diagnosis. The effect of autism on social skills is described with tips for dealing with family and personal relationships, parenting, living arrangements, and employment. Important topics include disclosure, available resources, and options for different therapeutic routes. On reading this book, you will learn a lot more about the autism spectrum at Level 1, be able to separate the facts from the myths, and gain an appreciation of the strengths of autism, and how autism can affect many aspects of everyday life. Drawing from the author's lived experience, this book is an essential guide for all newly diagnosed adults on the autism spectrum, their families and friends, and all professionals new to working with adults with ASDs.

This handbook details best practices and discusses ongoing challenges in assessment and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Chapters address assessment and diagnostic protocols, developmental considerations in ASD assessment, and issues concerning comorbid psychological and medical conditions. Various aspects of the disorder are emphasized throughout the handbook - from assessment in adolescent and adult populations to the latest findings in neuropsychology. The book concludes with future directions for research and clinical applications, focusing on universal screening, improved assessment methods, and earlier and more accurate diagnosis. Topics featured in this handbook include: Types of ASD assessment. Report writing for ASD evaluations. Stress and satisfaction in the diagnostic process. Clinical and neuropsychological perspectives from comorbid diagnosis of ASD and ADHD. Executive functions in ASD. The Handbook of Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder is an essential reference for researchers, clinicians, professionals, and graduate students in clinical child and school psychology, child and adolescent psychiatry, and social work as well as rehabilitation medicine/therapy, behavioral therapy, pediatrics, and educational psychology.

This anthology includes essays from a diverse group of adult-diagnosed autistic people. Our essays reflect the value of knowing why—why we are different from so many other people, why it can be so hard to do things others can take for granted, and why there is often such a mismatch between others' treatment of us and our own needs, skills, and experiences. Essay topics include recovering from burnout, exploring our passions and interests, and coping with sensory overload, especially in social situations.

Adult Autism Diagnosis Workbook: The Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Embracing Your Adulthood Diagnosis: Includes Personal Narratives Understanding adult autism can be a complex journey, filled with numerous questions and a search for clarity. This is where "Adult Autism Diagnosis Workbook: The Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Embracing Your Adulthood Diagnosis" steps in, serving as a meticulously crafted tool to empower, educate, and illuminate your path towards understanding and acceptance. Written with immense care and sensitivity, this guidebook aims to simplify the process of an adult autism diagnosis by offering an in-depth exploration of the disorder, its many manifestations, and the unique challenges and strengths that accompany it in adulthood. Autism is not a one-size-fits-all condition, and this workbook understands that by providing a tailored approach to handling your individual journey, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and personal growth. From the onset, the book demystifies the autism spectrum disorder by breaking down its definition, history, and the latest scientific findings. It delves into the complexities of the diagnostic process, explaining it step-by-step, thus making it less intimidating. Recognizing the fear, confusion, and relief that often accompanies an adult diagnosis, the book places significant emphasis on fostering self-compassion, acceptance, and patience. The workbook incorporates interactive elements, which include reflective exercises and cognitive strategies that not only facilitate a deeper understanding of oneself but also offer practical advice on managing day-to-day activities. By encouraging introspection, these exercises help in identifying personal patterns, strengths, challenges, and interests, assisting individuals in embracing their neurodiversity. Additionally, the book outlines effective communication strategies and coping mechanisms for dealing with sensory sensitivities and social difficulties - common hurdles that individuals with autism face. It provides tools to overcome such challenges, ultimately fostering self-reliance and confidence. Moreover, the workbook is enriched with real-life narratives and testimonials from adults who received their autism diagnosis later in life. These personal stories instill a sense of solidarity and inspire hope, showing that while the journey may be challenging, it is equally rewarding and empowering. Recognizing the prevalence of comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression among adults with autism, the guide provides valuable insights into managing these conditions. It emphasizes the importance of mental health and self-care, offering advice on seeking professional help and utilizing therapeutic interventions. The book also discusses the significance of building a supportive community and creating an inclusive environment. It offers resources to connect with others on the autism spectrum, providing guidance on advocating for oneself and one's needs in various scenarios - be it personal, social, or professional. At its core, the "Adult Autism Diagnosis Workbook: The Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Embracing Your Adulthood Diagnosis" is about embarking on a journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and growth. It serves as a constant companion, holding your hand as you navigate the world of adult autism. Whether you are newly diagnosed, suspect you may be on the spectrum, or are seeking to understand a loved one better, this guide serves as a compassionate, informed, and comprehensive resource. It underscores that an autism diagnosis in adulthood is not a roadblock, but rather a gateway to understanding oneself better and leading a fulfilling life. With its emphasis on embracing neurodiversity and self-acceptance, this workbook is an empowering asset. It invites you to look beyond the challenges and focus on the potential that lies within you. So, embrace your diagnosis, embark on this enlightening journey, and discover the unique and wonderful individual that you are.

Autism, including Asperger syndrome, is a strongly heritable condition that can usually be diagnosed in children by the age of two or three years. Although autism is more common in the less intellectually able child, in the more able child the condition is often overlooked until adulthood. Epidemiological research has shown that most adults in the general population meeting the criteria for autism are unrecognized and undiagnosed. There is a growing pressure on psychiatrists to be able to recognize autism and to consider its effects on their adult patients, particularly when they are also showing signs of another mental disorder, such as psychosis, personality disorder, or chronic depression. The Psychiatry of Adult Autism and Asperger Syndrome: A practical guide introduces adult psychiatrists, including sub-specialist psychiatrists, to autism and Asperger syndrome. It covers recognition and diagnosis and the psychiatrist's role in treating patients with co-morbid mental disorder whilst taking account of the autism component. It explores the process of sign-posting patients with autism to appropriate care and support as family involvement diminishes or ceases. While there are a number of books written on how to cope with autism as an adult, The Psychiatry of Adult Autism and Asperger Syndrome: A practical guide is aimed at the practising adult psychiatrist. The book describes normal and pathological functioning and then guides the reader through assessment and post diagnostic intervention issues. The use of fictionalized clinical examples helps to illustrate autism and its presentation in adulthood, and illustrate the issues psychiatrists often raise in training workshops.

This authoritative resource, now thoroughly revised for DSM-5, has set the standard for the comprehensive assessment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Leading experts demonstrate how to craft a scientifically grounded profile of each child’s strengths and difficulties, make a formal diagnosis, and use assessment data to guide individualized intervention in clinical and school settings. Chapters review state-of-the-art instruments and approaches for evaluating specific areas of impairment in ASD and co-occurring emotional and behavioral disorders. Considerations in working with children of different ages are highlighted. With a primary focus on children, several chapters also address assessment of adolescents and adults. New to This Edition *Chapter on key implications of DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, plus related updates throughout the volume. *Chapter on advances in early identification (ages 0–3). *Chapter with in-depth case examples illustrating the evaluation decision-making process and common diagnostic challenges. *Chapters on pseudoscience (including strategies for advising parents) and future directions in the field. *Current assessment data, numerous new and revised measures, and cutting-edge screening approaches.

In this book a group of international experts guide the reader through the clinical features of adults with autism spectrum disorders, describe the care needs of patients and their families, explain the evolution of the disorders into old age, and highlight what can be done to help. Detailed attention is paid to the medical and psychiatric problems of adults with these disorders and the approach to their education and professional integration. In addition, expert neuroscientists summarize current views on the neurobiology of autism. Autism spectrum disorders are devastating neurodevelopmental disorders. Although diagnosis and therapeutic interventions usually take place in infancy, they are chronic lifelong conditions. Surprisingly, the literature on autism spectrum disorders in adults is scarce. Moreover, most mental health professionals working with adults have little training in autism, and adult mental health services around the world are rarely prepared to address the needs of these patients, which tend to increase with age. This book therefore fills a crucial gap in the literature and will prove useful for all who care for and deal with adults in the Autistic Spectrum.