Unlocking the Complexity of Adult Autism and Asperger Syndrome: A Practical Guide for Psychiatrists

Autism, including Asperger syndrome, is a highly heritable condition that can often be diagnosed in children as early as two or three years old. However, in individuals with higher intellectual abilities, autism may go unrecognized until adulthood. Research has shown that the majority of adults in the general population who meet the criteria for autism remain undiagnosed and untreated.

This dearth of recognition has significant consequences, particularly when adults with autism also exhibit symptoms of other mental health disorders, such as psychosis, personality disorders, or chronic depression. As a result, there is a growing imperative for psychiatrists to develop their skills in recognizing and addressing autism in adult patients.

The Psychiatry of Adult Autism and Asperger Syndrome: A Practical Guide is an invaluable resource for adult psychiatrists, including sub-specialist psychiatrists, seeking to enhance their understanding of autism and Asperger syndrome. This comprehensive guide covers:

• Recognition and diagnosis of autism in adults
• The role of the psychiatrist in treating patients with co-morbid mental health disorders while considering the autism component
• Effective strategies for sign-posting patients with autism to appropriate care and support as family involvement diminishes or ceases

While there are numerous books focusing on coping with autism as an adult, this practical guide is specifically designed for practicing adult psychiatrists. It delves into normal and pathological functioning, assessment, and post-diagnostic intervention issues, using fictionalized clinical examples to illustrate autism and its presentation in adulthood.

This 264-page book, published by Oxford University Press, provides a detailed exploration of the complexities of adult autism and Asperger syndrome, making it an essential resource for psychiatrists seeking to improve their practice and patient outcomes.

Published on March 18, 2018, this book is available in paperback format and measures 8.5 x 0.6 x 5.4 inches. The ISBN-10 is 019879634X, and the ISBN-13 is 978-0198796343.