Do I Have Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Do you currently experience or have experienced in the past, persistent deficits in social-emotional reciprocity, (e.g., lacking initiative or failing to respond to social interactions), deficits in nonverbal communicative behaviors used for social interaction (e.g., lack of facial expressions and nonverbal communication) and deficits in developing, maintaining and understanding relationships (e.g., lack of interest in peers)?

Do you currently experience or have experienced in the past, at least two of the following? 1. Stereotyped or repetitive motor movements, use of objects or speech. 2. Insistence on sameness, inflexible regarding routines or ritualized patterns of (non)verbal behaviour. 3. Limited, fixated interests that are abnormal. 4. Hyper- or hyporeactivity to sensory input (e.g., sight, smell) or unusual interest in sensory aspects of the environment?

Were the symptoms present in the early developmental period?

Do the symptoms cause significant impairment in important areas of functioning (e.g., social, work-related)?

Can you make sure that the problems are not better explained by an intellectual developmental disorder or global developmental delay?

Based on your answers, you probably won't be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The essential features of this disorder are enduring impairment in reciprocal social communication and repetitive patterns or behavior and interests. Additionally, the symptoms are present from early childhood and cause impairment in daily functioning. If you are in doubt about your symptoms, talk to your doctor, to see what is best for you.

Based on your answers, you probably won't be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. However, since you are showing several signs of the illness, it may be important to discuss your symptoms with your doctor. There are no medical tests to diagnose the disorder, a doctor will usually observe behavior and reactions. Don’t feel embarrassed or ashamed to talk about your symptoms, you are not alone!

Based on your answers, there may be a chance you will be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. In this case it is very important to seek medical attention. There are many types of treatments available for autism spectrum disorder. Examples are behavior and communication interventions, dietary approaches and medication. Remember: you are not weird and there is hope. Many more people share this journey. Don’t be afraid to talk about it!