Asif M. Rahman, Ronald R. Rawitt
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social communication, sensory processing, and patterns of restricted or repetitive behaviors. While much of our cultural awareness and psychiatric clinical practice has focused on how ASD affects children and their development, significantly lower levels of attention have been directed towards the transition into adulthood, particularly as challenges with social communication and restrictive/repetitive behaviors can persist throughout an individual's life. Adults with ASD experience a multitude of special considerations, including delayed development/maturation, difficulty with academic achievement, obtaining secure employment, as well as navigating interpersonal and romantic relationships. Additionally, families often remain in caregiver roles for adults with ASD, adding significant emotional, financial and physical demands that contribute to burnout, as options for supporting housing are limited for most due to scarcity and high expense level. Increasing clinical awareness of these considerations is critical to begin addressing these challenges.