Design for Life: I’m in my 40s and have just been told I may have autism

This week, psychologist Trish Leonard-Curtin advises a reader on how to proceed now that they have been told they meet the criteria for a diagnosis of autism

Although it can initially be a lot to take in, ultimately a diagnosis of autism confirms a lot of what you already knew but had no words for. Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto

Dear Expert,

For several years now, I’ve been going to therapy to address particular issues in my life and have found it very helpful. However, recently I felt blindsided when I was told that I met the criteria for a diagnosis of autism. I’m in my 40s – so it seems like this is far too late for me to be getting such an assessment, even though it probably does go some way to explaining ...