'I was always the quirky one': What it's like getting an autism diagnosis as an adult

Des McCarthy always knew he was different to others but was shocked to get an autism diagnosis. Joining an outreach service changed his life, says Helen O'Callaghan 

Des McCarthy, Waterford who was diagnosed with autism two years ago aged 44 and uses the Cara Autism Outreach service in Waterford. Picture: Larry Cummins

Coming across a list of 10 ‘notable traits of autism’ and realising he ticked nine boxes prompted Waterford man Des McCarthy to pay for a private assessment.

Des, 45, says his 2019 diagnosis hit him hard. “I was in shock, but it was coupled with always knowing there was something a little different about me. I’m the oldest of four siblings. The others would’ve clicked together. I was on the periphery. I preferred it that way and still do.”