why is there so little help for adults?

[madelefant]

I'm just wondering. I'm a 51 year old adult who never got any help when I was actually a child or even young adult.  My life was a series of complete tragedies. Out of sheer determination i pulled myself together and have struggled for years and years to make some kind of life. Still I end up encountering traumatic events because of my problems.  I can't say if I am autistic (moderately), aspergers, severe ADHD, or whatever else. Have seen a psychiatrist and taken prozac for the last 15 years. It just seems that if you are an adult not only is there a dearth of help available, there just is no desire to help adults.  I know it important to catch these things early and that is most effective but even from the societal improvement aspect, untreated adults end up in jails, and committing crimes etc. Also I think developing help for younger person when they become adults can be honed by treating and learning from adults with these problems .

My two cents.

[charlie3966]

My son is 34 years old and has autism, l.d and behaviours that challenge the society.
He lives next door to me and I am his main informal supporter.
Although it has been difficult living with him and because of his touching of females behaviour, virtually impoosible going into the community he has now improved out of all recognition.  I put this down to consistency, calmness and understanding that my care worker and myself have always exhibited towards him.  I have never given up hope and I am glad now to have him as my son as he is such a changed person.
I would like to hear from other parents with adults with autism, l.d. and behavioural issues.

[KarenDiane]

You have a good point. There is a lot of help for children these days but several of my daughters therapists and special ed teachers have told us that there is virtually nothing out there for her once she exits high school. I think that as more and more children are diagnosed, the government will be forced to come up with programs for the adults.