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If you struggle to understand other people's emotions, have intense reactions to seemingly small stressors, and have trouble communicating your thoughts and feelings, you might have autism.
What is autism?
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neuropsychiatric condition that affects social relationships, communication and behavior.
Growing research shows that a combination of genetic, neurological and environmental factors likely play a role in the development of the disorder.
There are different levels of severity depending on how much support the individual needs. Level 1, also known as high functioning autism, is under diagnosed because symptoms can be subtle and are sometimes disguised as other mental health disorders. Here you can learn more about what the diagnosis may mean for you.
What set our therapist apart was her genuine empathy and personal insight. Not only did she possess a deep understanding of neurodiversity, but she also shared personal experiences that resonated with us, creating an instant connection and fostering a sense of trust!
Benedetta Osarenk
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Symptoms of autism
There are several different ways that autism can manifest itself, such as:
- Social difficulties: You may have difficulty understanding social cues, maintaining eye contact and developing close relationships.
- Communication difficulties: There may be communication problems, such as delayed speech development, limited use of gestures and misunderstandings.
- Repetitive behaviors: There are often repetitive or stereotyped behaviors, interests or activities.
- Sensory sensitivities: There may be a sensitivity to light, sound, touch, taste or smell. Some people with autism may be over-sensitive while others may be under-sensitive to certain stimuli.
- Rigidity with routines: You may have a strong preference for routines, with resistance to change. Unexpected changes can cause anxiety.
Autism, anxiety and depression
It is common for people with autism to have other problems such as social anxiety, depression and stress problems. Sleep problems are also common. These feelings can be exacerbated by the difficulties created by autism, such as social difficulties and sensory sensitivity.
Autism and concentration
People with autism often find it easy to concentrate on things they find interesting, and can become very absorbed in them in a way that can be tiring for those around them. They can often see details that others do not perceive, which can also be a strength. At the same time, too much sensory stimulation can cause fatigue, making healthy lifestyle factors such as exercise, regular meals, and sleep hygiene especially important.
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Relationships and autism
Autism is a condition that can greatly affect relationships. It may involve difficulties with social interaction, taking initiative and understanding others. This can lead to trouble with relationships despite the individual’s desire for connection. Understanding how the diagnosis affects an individual can make a big difference to how relationships can develop.
Autism in children and adults
For children with autism, it is common to be bullied because of social difficulties. Children with autism may become easily overwhelmed by environmental stimuli and be incapable of verbally expressing their distress. Parents and caregivers can struggle to understand and empathize with their child due to differences in communication and ways of relating to others. Autism in girls is under diagnosed due to social expectations and nuances in the ways symptoms are expressed.
Adults with autism may have few close friends and struggle with social relationships. Some symptoms may become more apparent as teenagers develop into young adults and lose the structured support of school and parents. However, with support many people with high-functioning autism still manage quite well and are able to find rewarding jobs and relationships.
High-functioning autism or Level 1
Autism comes in different degrees of severity based on the level of support an individual needs. High-functioning autism used to be called Asperger’s syndrome, but now it is called level 1 autism. If you have high-functioning autism, you may have a job and relationships but still experience difficulties in social settings. At times you may feel misunderstood and continue to struggle with sensory sensitivities.
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Next steps for an autism assessment
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms that seem consistent with autism, it is important to contact a licensed psychologist to get a diagnosis and help with a possible treatment plan. A therapist can help you understand yourself and your needs. Through knowledge and support, Lavendla can help make the difficult things easier.
Do you have questions or concerns about autism? Don’t hesitate to book an appointment with one of our professional psychologists or therapists.
12 common questions and answers about autism
What is autism?
Autism is a neuropsychiatric condition that is characterized by impairments in social relationships, sensory sensitivity and repetitive behaviour.
How is autism diagnosed?
A formal diagnosis is made by a psychologist who is able to administer neuropsychological measures such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2). The assessment includes interviews with caregivers, questionnaires, and several hours of psychological testing.
What are the symptoms of autism?
Common symptoms include social difficulties, trouble with communication, repetitive behaviors, sensory sensitivities, and rigidity with routines.
Is there any treatment for autism?
Treatment for autism often focuses on social skills training and managing thoughts, feelings and needs in different situations.
Is autism hereditary?
Research shows that there is a genetic component to autism. If one parent has the diagnosis, the chance of other family members having it increases.
Does autism affect school and work?
Yes, because autism affects concentration and behavior, it can be a challenge to manage in the school environment. However, special education support can make a big difference.
Can you have ADHD and autism at the same time?
Yes, it is not uncommon to have both. A neuropsychiatric assessment can help clarify diagnoses.
What can I do if I think I or my child has autism?
If you suspect autism, contact your healthcare provider for an initial assessment. From there, you can proceed with an assessment and treatment.
Does autism differ between girls and boys?
While symptoms of autism are consistent among genders, due to social expectations girls with autism have traditionally been under diagnosed.
Can you have other psychological conditions such as anxiety and depression at the same time as autism?
Yes, it is possible for people with autism to have other conditions such as anxiety or depression.
What rights do you have if you are diagnosed with autism?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a law protecting the civil rights of individuals with autism in the workplace, in school, and in other contexts.
What should you do if you are a relative of someone with autism?
Family members can support their loved one with patience and an attitude of acceptance. There are a multitude of sources online meant to educate family members as well as the general public about autism in order to reduce stigma and help society become more understanding toward people with autism.
Seeking an autism assessment
Seeking help and treatment for autism is an important process that can significantly improve quality of life. If you suspect that you have autism, you can follow these steps:
Step 1: Recognize the symptoms
Take note of the symptoms you are experiencing. These can include social difficulties, rigid routines and expectations, and feeling overwhelmed by daily tasks.
Step 2: Consult a licensed healthcare provider
The first and most important step is to seek professional help. An autism diagnosis can only be made by a mental health specialist, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Step 3: The autism assessment
After an initial assessment interview, where it is determined that autism may be present, an assessment can be carried out. This may include interviews, cognitive testing and discussions with family members.
Step 4: Diagnosis
If you are diagnosed with autism, the next step is to discuss interventions. These can vary from person to person, but usually include therapy and other support services.
Step 5: Psychotherapy and support
Talk therapy can help you develop skills to manage the symptoms of autism. This includes social skills training, cognitive behavioral therapy and stress management.
Step 6: Follow-up and adjustments
Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to see how the treatment is working and if any adjustments need to be made.
Step 7: Support from organizations and loved ones
Having a support network is incredibly important. Talk to family and friends and explain your situation to get the support you need. There may also be family meetings and training courses if those close to you want to learn more.
As starting treatment can often seem daunting or challenging, the best step in the right direction can be just having a conversation with a psychologist or therapist. With us, you will find licensed psychologists and therapists who have extensive experience with autism and related conditions. Taking the step to seek help can be difficult, but at Lavendla we always work to make the difficult easier.
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