While many people think autism is usually diagnosed in children, you may be surprised to know how many adults have gone undiagnosed. Though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that almost 5 ½ million Americans are living with autism, there are no readily available statistics to show when they were diagnosed. However, there is enough data to suggest that even more Americans haven’t been diagnosed yet – especially if they’re Black.
How is Autism Different in Children vs. Adults?
Some adults were not diagnosed as children because their traits were mistaken for shyness, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral problems, or simply being “different.” This is especially common among women, people of color, and people without an intellectual disability. Years of masking can contribute to exhaustion, anxiety, depression, or autistic burnout.
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