Identification and assessment of autism in adults

• Consider assessment for possible autism when a person has:
  • one or more of the following:
    • persistent difficulties in social interaction
    • persistent difficulties in social communication
    • stereotypic (rigid and repetitive) behaviours, resistance to change or restricted interests, and
      
      
  • one or more of the following:
    • problems in obtaining or sustaining employment or education
    • difficulties in initiating or sustaining social relationships
    • previous or current contact with mental health or learning disability services
    • a history of a neurodevelopmental condition (including learning disabilities and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) or mental disorder

For adults with possible autism who do not have a moderate or severe learning disability, consider using the Autism-Spectrum Quotient - 10 items (AQ-10)2. (If a person has reading difficulties, read out the AQ-10.) If a person scores above six on the AQ-10, or autism is suspected based on clinical judgement (taking into account any past history provided by an informant), offer a comprehensive assessment for autism.

Reference

1. NICE. Autism spectrum disorder in adults: diagnosis and management. Clinical guideline CG142. Published June 2012, last updated June 2021