Recognizing Asperger’s or Autism in Your Mother: A Guide for Caregivers
The challenges of identifying Asperger's or autism in a loved one, such as a mother, can seem daunting. From the inside, neurodivergent individuals often mask their condition effectively, and it can be hard to spot unless a close relationship exists. This guide aims to provide insights and tools for recognizing Asperger's or autism in your mother, emphasizing the importance of professional assessment and self-education.
The Complexity of Neurodivergence
Neurodiversity, including conditions like Asperger's and autism, presents in many different forms. Some individuals may be more noticeably impacted, while others may have a milder form of the condition, making it harder to recognize. Personal experiences, such as mine, highlight the irony of undiagnosed individuals who only receive a diagnosis after disclosing their condition to trusted family and friends.
Understanding Inheritance and Diagnosis
Autism is often inherited, passed down through families. Familiarizing yourself with your family history can help in understanding the possibility of your mother having Asperger's or autism. Given the social tendency of individuals with autism to find similar individuals, it's not unusual for parents to share traits or signs of the condition.
Seeking Professional Assessment
For a proper diagnosis, your mother would need to be evaluated by specialists such as neuropsychiatrists or other expert healthcare professionals. Before seeking professional help, she can discuss her concerns with her healthcare provider and ask for a referral to the appropriate specialists. Professional assessment is crucial for a thorough understanding of the condition and the necessary support.
Self-education and Observing Behaviors
While waiting for professional assessment, you can also educate yourself about Asperger's and autism. Recognizing the condition may involve looking for specific behaviors and matching them against descriptions found in diagnostic literature. Attention to differences in how autism presents in people assigned female at birth (AFAB) can also be helpful.
Differences Between Asperger’s and Autism
It’s important to note that the term 'Asperger's' is outdated and should not be used anymore, as it is a separate diagnosis. The revised term is 'autism.' The removal of 'Asperger’s' highlights the confusion caused by using separate labels for different forms of autism. If you are unsure whether your mother has Asperger's or autism, the answer is generally the same: she may just be autistic.
Support and Resources
If you suspect your mother may have autism, consider seeking support through resources such as Ask Me, I’m Autistic 24 Hour Rule on Facebook. Engage in conversations with autistic individuals to gain a better understanding of their experiences. Additionally, watching talks by experts such as Tony Attwood can provide valuable insights into the condition. Discussions about her childhood may also reveal patterns or behaviors indicative of autism.
Pay attention to signs such as stress responses, sensitivity to certain triggers, and social behavior. By observing these aspects, you can begin to piece together a clearer understanding of your mother's condition.
Conclusion
Recognizing Asperger's or autism in your mother is a complex process that often requires a combination of self-education, observation, and professional assessment. By seeking out the right resources and support, you can better understand and support your mother on her journey, whether she is diagnosed with Asperger's or autism.