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Can Someone Be Misdiagnosed as Autistic Later in Life? 

Posted
Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Beatrice Holloway, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, late autism misdiagnosis is possible, especially as diagnostic challenges increase when assessing adults. While autism is becoming more recognised in adults, the subtler nature of its symptoms can lead to mistaken identity, where traits associated with autism are wrongly attributed to other conditions. Misdiagnosis is a concern, particularly in individuals who may have developed coping mechanisms to mask their symptoms over the years. 

The primary reason for misdiagnosis is the overlap of autism traits with other mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or even obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Adult assessment can sometimes miss the nuanced differences between these disorders, leading to an inaccurate diagnosis. Additionally, adults may present with autism in a way that deviates from the more widely recognised traits in children, further complicating accurate identification. 

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Common Symptoms of Late Autism Misdiagnosis 

Certain symptoms may contribute to misdiagnosis of late autism, such as: 

Social Withdrawal or Anxiety:

Adults with autism often appear socially withdrawn or overly anxious in social settings. However, these traits can also point to social anxiety disorder or depression. Therapy can help to identify whether these behaviours stem from autism or another mental health condition. 

Ritualistic Behaviours:

Repetitive actions or routines may be a sign of autism, but they can also indicate obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). A comprehensive assessment can help distinguish between the two, ensuring the right treatment path is taken. 

For a thorough evaluation, visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations tailored to your needs. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to late diagnosis in adults. 

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Beatrice Holloway, MSc
Author

Beatrice Holloway is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She specialises in CBT, psychological testing, and applied behaviour therapy, working with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delays, and learning disabilities, as well as adults with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, OCD, and substance use disorders. Holloway creates personalised treatment plans to support emotional regulation, social skills, and academic progress in children, and delivers evidence-based therapy to improve mental health and well-being across all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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