It seems like everywhere you turn, the spotlight is shifting to adults who are just now discovering that their quirks, habits, and lifelong struggles might actually be a sign of autism. From the glossy pages of major publications to prime-time TV slots, late-diagnosed autism is finally getting its well-deserved moment in the sun. But why the sudden interest, and what does it mean for autistic adults and their families?

I’m delighted to announce that I’ve recently been approached by two big publications for information related to adult autism—and I can’t be more excited about it! (Links to both published articles at the bottom.)

The Rise of Autism Awareness in Mainstream Media

Let’s face it: for years, autism has been portrayed predominantly as a childhood condition. The typical narrative involved a young boy (because girls often went unnoticed) exhibiting classic signs, getting diagnosed, and receiving early intervention. End of story. But what happens when that child grows up? Or what about the adults who slipped through the diagnostic net entirely? Enter the late-diagnosed adults who are finally having their stories told.

Recent features in high-profile publications like The New York Times, The Guardian, and Forbes have started to highlight the experiences of adults discovering their autistic identity later in life. And it’s about time! These stories are not just eye-opening but also validating for so many individuals who have spent their lives feeling different without knowing why. In the last 5 years, there has been an explosion of people sharing their experiences on social media and in other niche content, but this information is increasingly present across other platforms as well, making it more accessible for people who have not gone out of their way to find it.

Why Now?

The timing couldn’t be better. With an increasing focus on diversity and inclusion, the concept of neurodiversity is gaining traction. Society is beginning to understand that neurological differences, including autism, are just another part of human diversity. Plus, social media platforms have provided a space for autistic adults to share their experiences and connect with others, creating a rise of awareness that traditional media can no longer ignore.

In addition, the updated criteria for autism diagnosis (thanks to the DSM-5) have broadened the scope, allowing many adults to finally understand themselves better. It’s a perfect storm of increased awareness, better diagnostic tools, and a societal shift towards valuing diverse perspectives.

The Importance of Mainstream Attention

But why is it so crucial for this information to be hitting the mainstream media, and not just staying within niche corners of the internet? Here’s why:

Breaking Stereotypes: The more we hear about adult autism, the more we can break away from the narrow, outdated stereotypes that have long been associated with the condition. Autism is not just a childhood issue, nor does it only affect males. Stories of autistic adults help paint a fuller, richer picture.
Validation and Recognition: For many late-diagnosed adults, discovering they are autistic can be a profoundly validating experience. It explains so much of their past and present experiences. Seeing their stories reflected in mainstream media can provide a sense of recognition and belonging that many have never felt before.
Better Support Systems: When the broader public understands that autism affects adults too, it can lead to better support systems. Employers, educators, healthcare providers, and policymakers are more likely to take the needs of autistic adults into account when they see these issues highlighted in major publications.
Raising Awareness Among Families: Families of late-diagnosed adults also benefit from this increased visibility. It helps them understand and support their loved ones better, fostering stronger, more empathetic relationships.

What This Means for You

These articles are likely to be incredibly valuable, not just for autistic adults themselves but also for the wider community. Here’s how:

Educational Opportunity: For those who are outdated in their understanding of autism, these features can serve as a much-needed education. They can debunk myths, provide accurate information, and showcase the diversity of the autism spectrum.
Empowerment: For autistic adults, especially those newly diagnosed, seeing themselves represented in mainstream media can be incredibly empowering. It’s a reminder that they are not alone and that their experiences are valid and worthy of attention.
Advocacy: These articles can act as powerful tools for advocacy. They can inspire change, from personal attitudes to public policies, by highlighting the unique challenges and strengths of autistic adults.

Wrapping It Up

In a world where the media often focuses on the young and sensational, it’s refreshing to see the stories of autistic adults taking center stage. This shift is more than just a trend; it’s a long-overdue recognition of the diverse and vibrant community of adults on the autism spectrum. By bringing these stories into the mainstream, we are not only educating the public but also validating the experiences of countless individuals who have felt misunderstood for far too long.

So next time you pick up a magazine or browse through your favorite news site, keep an eye out for those articles about autism in adults. They’re not just news; they’re a beacon of hope, understanding, and change for a brighter, more inclusive future.

If you want to check out the two (very different) articles I was contacted about, here they are!

This New York Times article was written by Steven Kurutz about autism in the workplace. The article discusses the challenges and strategies for autistic employees navigating the workplace. With the rise in autism diagnoses, companies like Microsoft, Dell, and Ford are implementing measures to create more inclusive environments. These accommodations often include flexible work schedules, remote work options, and sensory-friendly office spaces. Programs like Microsoft’s neurodiversity hiring initiative provide support such as extended interview times, job coaches, and mentors, which help neurodivergent employees thrive. Despite these efforts, autistic individuals often face hurdles in job markets, including higher unemployment rates and reluctance to disclose their diagnosis due to stigma. The reporter reached out to get a greater understanding of autism and learn more about my perspective as a psychologist doing adult evaluations.

Employees With Autism Find New Ways to Navigate the Workplace

In her essay for The Cut (New York Magazine), Mary H.K. Choi shares her journey of being diagnosed with autism in her 40s, a revelation that provided her with profound self-understanding and clarity. Choi describes how the diagnosis helped explain lifelong behaviors and challenges, particularly her experiences with pathological demand avoidance (PDA), which triggers intense anxiety and resistance to demands. The diagnosis significantly changed her perspective on her interactions and relationships, offering a sense of relief and validation. This newfound understanding not only reshaped her self-identity but also influenced her approach to personal and professional life, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and accommodating neurodivergent traits in various environments. I was contacted by a media fact checker prior to publishing the story, which I was excited to do.

What My Adult Autism Diagnosis Finally Explained

Dr. Jessica Myszak and Dr. Jaime Long have significant experience performing psychological evaluations with children and adults. They offer both in-person and telehealth evaluations for children, teens, and adults looking for answers. In addition to seeing clients on the Chicago North Shore, they are able to work with families who reside in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Washington DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming! Dr. Long is also now available to see clients in California. If you are interested in learning more about potentially working with them, you can visit their website here to get the process started.