Suspense Crime, Digital Desk : Today, more adults are being diagnosed with autism than ever before. For a long time, many people lived with the question: why does life always feel a little different, a little unusual? Now, many are getting the answer. What was once considered a condition of childhood only, is now increasingly being diagnosed in adults as well. This is not a sudden increase, but the result of a change in understanding and awareness. Dr. Sonali Chaturvedi, Consultant Psychologist, Arita Hospitals, says, "Diagnosis of autism in adults has increased rapidly in the last few years because people have started understanding it better."Autism was previously identified separately.Previously, autism had a fixed image: a young child with speech or social difficulties. Those who didn't fit this description were often overlooked. A quiet nature, a tendency to overthink, or a solitary lifestyle were often considered normal behavior, even though they could be signs. Many people learn to adapt from childhood, observing others' behavior and memorizing their communication patterns. This is called masking. While everything appears normal on the outside, fatigue and anxiety continue to grow inside. Dr. Chaturvedi told TOI that "masking delays diagnosis, and even the person themselves don't understand."What should be kept in mind during treatment?Often, before a proper diagnosis is made, people continue to seek treatment for other problems, such as anxiety, depression, or personality issues. While some relief is obtained, the full picture remains unclear. According to Dr. Chaturvedi, many people seek treatment repeatedly, yet they still feel something is missing until the real cause is revealed. Another important aspect is that this diagnosis is even later in women. Previous research focused on men, so the signs seen in women were often overlooked. They were often dismissed as overly emotional or overthinking.Conversation increased understandingThings are changing now. Social media, people's experiences, and open conversations have increased understanding. Sometimes, people recognize themselves by listening to someone else's story. Dr. Chaturvedi says, "For many adults, this moment comes when they see themselves in someone else's experience." For those who find identity later, this change brings relief, not fear. It doesn't change their identity, but rather gives them a sense that they have always been this way. Childhood memories, relationships, and work life all begin to make sense with a new perspective.
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