Study, 2020
Can autism be newly recognized in a young woman at college who is also struggling with distress and anxiety?
In this single case, yes. A woman being treated for distress and anxiety was also found to meet criteria for autism spectrum disorder. One case cannot show how often this happens or whether it would help everyone.
What they did
This is a report of one college student's case. The author describes a young woman who was being treated for dysphoria and anxiety and was evaluated and diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder during that treatment. The author also explains common features of autism, conditions that often occur alongside it, and the campus services available to students.
What they found
The student was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder while being treated for dysphoria and anxiety. Learning about this diagnosis led to better self-understanding and helped her discover new sources of support.
What it means for you
College mental health staff may increasingly meet students with undiagnosed autism, and knowing the signs could help these students get better support. This is based on one person's experience, so it cannot show how common this situation is or guarantee the same outcome for others.
About the study
- Original title
- Evolution, the Menstrual Cycle, and Theoretical Overreach
- Authors
- Kiesner J, Eisenlohr-Moul T, Mendle J
- Journal
- Perspectives on psychological science : a journal of the Association for Psychological Science
- Year
- 2020
- Study design
- Study
- What was tested
- A diagnostic evaluation for autism spectrum disorder carried out during ongoing mental health treatment.
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1177/1745691620906440