Asperger Syndrome will not exist, once again, when the DSM-V manual is published in May of 2013. However, adults diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome will continue to exist and will not be silenced. These adults may appear to blend in, although having a non-typical neurological composition, but many struggle with relationships, employment and maintaining an independent life style. Asperger Syndrome was identified in the DSM-IV manual to distinguish from classic autistic behavior, noticeable in early childhood.  As a result, Asperger adults who have struggled with  a combination of social, anxiety and sensory issues, some which may have not been prevalent in early childhood, have been able to obtain services to assist in their struggles and make great strides.

The Asperger Syndrome diagnosis in the DSM-IV represents social movement and legal improvement, a new respect for neuro-diversity.  Adults with Asperger syndrome have gained new freedom and respect through this diagnosis. They have civil rights. Now, these are threatened with the DSM-V. The clocks will turn back where adults, who would benefit from an Asperger label, will not know why they struggle or be able to obtain supports. Their choices may be grim and they may rely on their immediate families, mother or father to take care of them forever.  They, who have the potential to be employed and do great things, will remain eternal children, where there creativity remains untapped.

We, at the Portland adult group, urge employers, parents, leaders, and citizens to take a stand for neuro-diversity and their pocket book. The same money used to assist 20 people with Asperger Syndrome, e.g. with a month of social skills training, would outweigh any money treating anxiety and depression issues from unrecognized and untreated Asperger Syndrome.  Don’t bury the future with the mistakes of the past.

Please sign the GRASP-DSMV petition so that people with Asperger Syndrome, continue to exist

For more information about the proposed DSM V changes please see this list of articles.