I Just Received a Diagnosis as an Adult - Now What?!

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Life has been difficult at times, and I now understand a bit about why I seemed to be different from everyone else growing up, why I had trouble understanding and following social rules, why I struggled understanding people's emotional reactions, and why I didn't necessarily feel the way others felt when emotionally charged information was presented.

School was rough, except for the subjects I truly enjoyed! I never realized that the difference I became aware of and was experiencing is part of a diagnosable condition, Autism Spectrum Disorder.

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The statement above is just "one man's perspective." Another account is described in the following article within the CAR Autism Roadmap™:

• Climbing the Tree

Of course, everyone experiences Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) somewhat differently. Yet autistic adults, particularly those who are not diagnosed until adulthood, often find that they have much in common. Even if you are not someone who typically joins or seeks out social groups, you may benefit from reaching out to other adults on the autism spectrum. There are a number of organizations that offer support, resources, and connection to other autistic adults. Three that you may want to investigate are:

• WrongPlanet.net Online Community
• The Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership (GRASP)
• The Autistic Self-Advocacy Network

There are also other more localized groups listed in the CAR Resource Directory™. In the Directory, choose "Support Information - Self-Advocate Support Group."

You should know that there are few, if any, mandated supports for autistic adults. In fact, unless there are other co-occurring conditions, an autistic adult may not be eligible for any government supports. The following articles contained within the CAR Autism Roadmap™ will help you learn about supports that may be available to you.

• Social Security Disability Insurance for Adults with Disabilities
• Waivers

Additionally, you might qualify for vocational assistance, such as a job coach or help in refining your interests and abilities. You should contact your local Vocational Rehabilitation Agency:

• The Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR)
• The New Jersey Vocational Rehabilitation Services
• Delaware Vocational Rehabilitation
• What to Expect from OVR

To find agencies in other states, visit:

• Job Accommodation Network

Regardless of whether you qualify for services from your local Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, you may be entitled to accommodations in your workplace if you have a job and choose to disclose your diagnosis and how it affects you. Read the following articles from the CAR Autism Roadmap™ to learn more about accommodations and other employment issues that may be relevant to your situation:

• Workplace Accommodations and Supports for Individuals with ASD
• To Tell or Not to Tell: Issues of Disclosure in the Workplace
• Finding a Job: Measuring Your Interest and Aptitude
• The Role of a Job Coach
• Building Experiences and Developing a Resume
• Preparing for a Job Interview
• Protections Against Employment Discrimination
• Time Management and Other Executive Functioning Issues in the Workplace

You may want to consider finding a therapist who can help you talk through your feelings about the diagnosis or one who can help you work on social skills or any other area that may be a concern to you. Look through the Mental/Behavioral Health section of the CAR Resource Directory™ to find someone who can help.

• Private Therapy: Is It Right for Me?

Your recent diagnosis of ASD does not change who you are. But it may help you to understand yourself and your past better. And it may help you take charge of your future. Get started learning more about your new diagnosis today by visiting the CAR Autism Roadmap™. Articles relevant to adulthood can be easily accessed by using the "Age" filter when browsing.