British singer Johhny Dean wrote in the Guardian recently about his life as an adult with autism, particularly his difficulties getting diagnosed as an adult, and receiving support for his condition. The article pointed out that 70% of autistic adults in the UK feel they are not receiving the help they need.
Adults seeking diagnosis are often faced with a struggle. Not being taken seriously seems to be a common occurrence. I experienced more than just a few quizzical looks and furrowed brows when I asked to be assessed. Many people simply give up at this point. I was even asked outright, by a consultant psychologist, why I was seeking diagnosis when I was an adult. Apparently, this happens a lot. [quote from the article]