Holden Thorp, a prominent scientist and academic leader, shares his late-in-life autism diagnosis as a lens to explore the rising rates of autism diagnoses in the U.S. He argues that the increase is not due to a surge in actual cases, but rather a result of evolving diagnostic criteria, greater societal awareness, and a growing willingness—especially among adults—to seek evaluation.

Thorp emphasizes that autism has always existed in the population at similar rates, but many people, particularly those who are high-functioning or mask their traits, were historically undiagnosed. He challenges the notion that autism is a childhood condition or a recent phenomenon, pointing out that many adults are only now being recognized due to improved understanding and reduced stigma.

He also critiques the persistent misinformation that blames vaccines or environmental toxins for the rise in diagnoses. Instead, he highlights how the broadening of the diagnostic spectrum and increased advocacy have helped more people access support and community.

Ultimately, Thorp calls for a more inclusive and nuanced view of autism—one that embraces neurodiversity and recognizes the value of different cognitive styles. His story is both personal and political, urging society to move beyond outdated stereotypes and to support all individuals on the spectrum, regardless of when they are diagnosed.

The Wall Street Journal article "A Late Autism Diagnosis Changed Their Lives" explores how receiving an autism diagnosis in adulthood can be transformative. Many adults, often women or people of color, are only now being diagnosed after years of masking symptoms or being misdiagnosed. The article highlights personal stories of individuals who found clarity, self-acceptance, and a sense of community after their diagnosis. It also discusses the emotional complexity of late diagnoses—relief at understanding oneself better, but also grief over missed support and opportunities earlier in life. The piece underscores the growing recognition of autism’s diverse presentations and the importance of inclusive diagnostic practices.

The Wall Street Journal article titled "More Adults Than Ever Are Living With Autism in the U.S." explores the rising number of adult autism diagnoses, attributing the trend to increased awareness, evolving diagnostic criteria, and reduced stigma. Many adults, especially women and people of color who were previously overlooked, are now being diagnosed later in life after years of struggling with undiagnosed symptoms. The article highlights how social media, self-advocacy, and better access to mental health services are empowering individuals to seek evaluations. It also discusses the emotional impact of receiving a diagnosis in adulthood, which can bring both relief and a sense of loss over missed support earlier in life.

The New York Times article "Employees With Autism Are Learning to Navigate the Workplace" discusses how more adults diagnosed with autism are entering the workforce and adapting to professional environments. It highlights the challenges they face—such as sensory sensitivities, communication differences, and navigating unspoken social norms—as well as the strategies and accommodations that help them thrive. The piece features personal stories of individuals who found clarity and empowerment through diagnosis and support, and it emphasizes the importance of inclusive workplaces that recognize neurodiverse strengths.

Marianne Eloise recounts her journey to receiving an autism diagnosis as an adult, a process marked by years of confusion, misdiagnosis, and internal struggle. She explains that autism in women and girls is often overlooked because diagnostic criteria have historically been based on how autism presents in boys. As a result, many autistic women—like herself—learn to mask their traits, mimicking neurotypical behavior to fit in, which can lead to anxiety, burnout, and a sense of alienation.

Eloise describes the emotional impact of finally being diagnosed: a mix of grief for the years lost without understanding herself, and relief in finally having a framework that explains her experiences. She emphasizes that autism is not a disease to be cured but a fundamental part of her identity.

The article calls for greater awareness of how autism manifests differently across genders and for more inclusive diagnostic practices. Eloise advocates for a shift in public perception—away from stereotypes and toward a broader, more compassionate understanding of neurodiversity.