Recently, the media has held a focus on autism. The recent controversy and discussion over the condition has led to a number of misconceptions. The coverage is a positive point for sufferers of the illness, but it has led to gross oversight in one area. While many articles go in-depth on the issue of autism, articles concerning adults with the condition are practically nonexistent.
Autism is not a childhood illness. While symptoms may lessen as the individual ages, the condition continues to exist once they become an adult. Many autistics do not receive a diagnosis until they have left their childhood far behind. As a result, they are left in a difficult position.
Due to the nature of autism, many adults on the spectrum are often unable to work and unable to find help from the government, doctors or private organizations. Many organizations and charities exist to help children with autism, and parents of autistic children, but adults are left to fend for themselves.
In addition to the misleading focus on children with the condition, many people are unaware that autism symptoms are not strictly social. The condition can cause, contribute to and exacerbate many physical difficulties such as a lack of fine motor control, poor hearing and eyesight, memory problems and difficulty with speech, among others. No two cases are the same, causing confusion and making it difficult for people to understand.
As an adult autistic that has experienced a number of difficulties, I would like to see a greater focus on people like myself. People can be very ignorant regarding autism in adults. There should be a greater focus on individuals with similar difficulties so that others can learn more about the condition and how to deal with it in their own lives.
Jeanette Thunstrom
Marietta
