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Anxiety & Autism Spectrum Disorder

Why might anxiety be experienced differently in people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

94% of people with autism will experience anxiety. Anxiety in people with ASD is due mainly to sensory-related worries, such as auditory-related anxiety, and concerns about new situations or changes in their everyday lives. Some of the critical areas that may relate to anxiety for people with ASD are:

 

  • Difficulty recognising emotions of self and others

  • Sensory hypersensitivities

  • Difficulty with uncertainty

  • Performance anxiety

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What increases anxiety in people with ASD?

  • Social anxiety can arise in social situations, particularly when meeting strangers or being outside of your comfort zone.

  • Daily routine changes: If individuals with ASD request to do something new or make changes to their day without adequate preparation.

  • Sensory overstimulation: being overstimulated can happen from everyday experiences, such as encountering flashing lights or hearing dogs bark, which can cause anxiety.

  • Past bad experiences: Many people have experienced teasing or bullying in their childhood or later in life, which can cause anxiety for individuals with ASD due to difficulties with emotional regulation.

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How can someone with ASD look after themselves if they feel anxious?

  • Wearing noise-cancelling headphones

  • Sunglasses in supermarkets or bright environments

  • Sometimes, it’s helpful to bring fidget toys around with you for comfort or distraction

  • Weighted blankets can help provide sensory destimulation when you’re feeling overwhelmed if you like pressure or tight hugs

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If I know someone with ASD, what signs should I look out for to see if they're feeling anxious?

Every individual on the spectrum is different, and these are some anxious signs to look out for in people with ASD.

  • They may shut down to prevent themselves from interacting or communicating with others

  • They may feel the need to be more rigid in their thought process and routines,

  • Could use tantrums, emotional blackmail and non-compliance to avoid anxiety-inducing situations,

  • Become angry or violent in the form of aggression to others or self-harm

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Where can I seek more support if I have anxiety and ASD?

Please take a look at our signposting page if you feel like you need some more support. The NHS and NICE guidelines recommend that support for people with anxiety is the same regardless of any other disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder.​​

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