Lexi Jones, 25-year-old daughter of David Bowie and supermodel Iman, is a prime example of how even those with access to the best medical care can make it to adulthood without being properly diagnosed with autism. According to Jones, she spent the majority of her life “pretending to be normal” and struggling to fit in.
It wasn’t until she finally received an autism diagnosis as an adult that she felt validated and understood.
Jones says her autism diagnosis gave her clarity and relief. It also helped her understand herself better. Over the years, Jones says she learned to quietly hide parts of herself. At first, she didn’t even realize she was doing it, but eventually she learned more about autistic masking and realized that’s what she was doing.
Autistic masking is a coping mechanism that some autistic individuals use to minimize their autistic traits in social situations. Typically, high masking individuals will suppress their own behaviors, emotions, and thoughts to avoid social stigma, discrimination, or anxiety. Masking provides short-term benefits, but it can also lead to burnout and depression. Typically, creating an environment where the individual feels safe will help them unmask and express their authentic self.
Masking can also make it more difficult for children to get diagnosed, since care providers may not sense anything wrong until a burnout occurs.
Jones says she became good at blending in, but she had to spend a lot of time and effort to construct her movements and behavior to belong consciously. She also said she constantly felt exhausted from putting in so much extra effort and energy into social interactions. She admitted that this often led to shutdowns or angry lashouts.
Another common experience for autistic adults who are diagnosed later in life is spending a ton of time and money seeking professional help before the diagnosis. In Jones’ case, she admits that she spent thousands of dollars getting help trying to understand herself before she finally got diagnosed. Now, she feels like she can finally build a life that fits who she really is without feeling so shameful.
Has Your Loved One Been Diagnosed with Autism?
One of the best things about receiving an autism diagnosis as a child is that you can receive the treatment, care, and support necessary to become the best version of yourself.
Here at the Nevada Autism Center, our facility seeks to help every autistic adolescent learn at their own pace, develop skills, and receive the individualized treatment they deserve. The goal is to empower each child to become as independent, autonomous, and successful as possible.
To achieve this, we offer ABA therapy, summer camps, model classroom activities, family guidance, school readiness programs, and social skills training. When children attend in-clinic therapy, they also have more opportunities for social development and making friends in a structured environment.
You can get started on enrolling with us now, or you can give our team a call at (702) 660-2005 to get answers to any questions you might have.
