What to Do if You Have Undiagnosed Autism and ADHD

There has been an increase in adults diagnosed with autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The increase in numbers may be due to various things, including public awareness of both conditions, broader criteria, and changing perceptions of autism and ADHD.

Experts attribute these to several factors, but social media may have also played a role as women can use platforms such as Twitter and Tiktok to spark discussions about the condition, The Conversation says.

Undiagnosed ADHD and autism in women

Many women reported that their conditions were either often left undiagnosed or diagnosis took a while. In women with ADHD or autism, many health care professionals would say that they are not autistic or have ADHD but just have anxiety. A study cited that there are several reasons why these happen. Experts note that one of the reasons is that autism and ADHD symptoms in men and women may differ. Women with the conditions may have also learned to hide their symptoms from people over time, leading to delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis.

Verywell says that the diagnosis gap is because it's a condition that is traditionally thought to affect primarily men. Also, girls with autism have less obvious social difficulties and may have better communication skills than boys with autism or ADHD.

Not finding the correct diagnosis and treatment in childhood significantly impacts girls with ADHD and autism. Most experience poor academic performance and behavioral and social problems. They might find it challenging to cope with work demands as they get older. They are prone to anxiety, stress, and mental health problems like depression and eating disorders.

Tips if you suspect you have undiagnosed ADHD and autism:

• Look for free online sites such as AADDUK, ADHD aware, and National Autistic Society to seek advice on how to best approach your general practitioner (GP) with questions and what support or specialist clinics are in the area.
• Make an appointment with a GP, saying that you want a referral to an adult ADHD or autism specialist.
• Bring a loved one along with you if you plan to visit a GP to help in explaining why you think you have autism or ADHD. This would tell that you have read about the condition and are experiencing the same symptoms.
• List the symptoms you experience related to ADHD and autism using details in the free online websites of ADHD and autism as reference. Present your experience to the GP as clearly as possible and cite real-life experiences as much as possible.
• If the GP does not give you a referral right away, AADD-UK suggests asking your GP that you will call in a week to follow up on your referral request.
• Seek a second appointment and see another GP if you do not get a referral from the GP after your first visit. After a referral, the GP will advise a visit to a diagnostic service to help you get the proper support you would need.