If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I on the spectrum?” you’re not alone. Many adults discover this later in life after finding a list of traits that seem familiar. Whether you’re curious, confused, or relieved to have a possible explanation, your exploration shows that you want to understand yourself better. That’s a great place to start.
The “autistic spectrum” refers to various neurodevelopmental differences that affect how people communicate, process information, and interact with the world. It isn’t a single condition; it’s more like a range of traits, strengths, challenges, and sensitivities that vary in each person. That’s why it’s called a spectrum—there’s no one way to “seem autistic.” Instead, many patterns cluster together.
Some common traits people notice in themselves include difficulty with social cues, needing extra time to understand conversations, or feeling drained after too much interaction. You might prefer routines, dislike sudden changes, or get deeply involved in specific interests. Sensory sensitivity is also typical—bright lights, loud noises, strong smells, or certain textures might feel overwhelming rather than just annoying. Many autistic adults also talk about masking, which is copying others’ social behavior to fit in. Masking can help you navigate the world, but it can also leave you exhausted.
Think I Might Be Autistic: A Guide to Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis and Self-Discovery for Adults by Cynthia Kim
I Think I Might Be Autistic is a compassionate, accessible guide for adults exploring whether they might be on the spectrum. Kim mixes her personal story with clear explanations of diagnostic criteria, self-reflection questions, and practical advice on seeking evaluation — or simply making sense of one’s own neurodivergence. Compact and readable, the book works well as a first step on a self-discovery journey. While some readers wish for deeper discussion of social/cultural contexts or modern autistic-affirming language, it remains a thoughtful, validating resource for anyone questioning their neurotypical assumptions.
If you see yourself in these traits, you might feel a mix of emotions: validation, worry, curiosity, or even sadness for the years you struggled without knowing why. All those feelings are valid. But it’s also important to remember that being autistic doesn’t mean you’re “broken.” It means your brain is wired differently. There’s nothing shameful or defective about that.
What can you do if you think you are autistic?
First, consider talking with a qualified clinician who specializes in adult autism assessments. A formal diagnosis isn’t necessary for everyone, but it can provide clarity, emotional relief, and access to support. If you’re not ready for that step, you can still learn more. Books, reliable online communities, podcasts, and self-test questionnaires can help you explore things at your own pace.
Next, start making small choices that support your well-being. This might mean reducing sensory overload by using noise-canceling headphones or adjusting lighting. It could involve setting routines that help you feel more grounded. You might also be honest with friends and family about what you need—more clarity in communication, more downtime after social events, or simply permission to be yourself without pretending.
Finally, try to approach this journey with kindness. The spectrum includes many strengths: creativity, attention to detail, deep curiosity, loyalty, integrity, and the ability to notice patterns others miss. Autistic people build meaningful, rich lives every day—often after they stop fighting their wiring and start working with it.
If you think you might be on the spectrum, it’s okay to explore that thought. Understanding yourself isn’t just empowering; it’s the first step toward living a life that truly fits.