- By Priyanka Munshi
- Tue, 02 Apr 2024 01:02 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
World Autism Day 2024: Anxiety is a regular source of difficulty for lots of people on the autism spectrum. Anxiety can be brought on by sensory sensitivity, routine changes, and trouble interpreting social cues in people with autism. Feelings of overwhelm and anguish are frequently brought on by the unpredictable nature of social encounters and sensory overload. Furthermore, difficulties in social situations and communication might intensify emotions of uncertainty and loneliness.
Also, recognizing anxiety symptoms in people with autism and giving some assistance to them are critical skills for caregivers. This could entail putting soothing techniques into practice, developing regular schedules, and setting up safe areas where people feel understood and comfortable.
“Autism is as much a part of humanity as is the capacity to dream.”-Kathleen Seidel (Image Credit: Canva)
In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Meenakshi Kamble, who is an occupational therapist at Surya Mother and Child Super Speciality Hospital in Pune, talked about the symptoms and effective coping tips for anxiety in autism.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), commonly known as autism, can often present challenges with social interaction and communication, which can contribute to anxiety in individuals on the spectrum. More commonly, social situations can be overwhelming due to difficulties interpreting social cues and unspoken rules.
What Are The Symptoms Of Anxiety In Autism?
Anxiety may stem from sensory sensitivities, where day-to-day sounds, lights, or textures can be overstimulating and distressing.
Symptoms of anxiety in ASD can include repetitive behaviours, social withdrawal, meltdowns, and physical ailments such as stomach aches or headaches.
Unusual or unknown behaviours, or withdrawals from favourite activities, can also be indicators.
What Are The Effective Coping Tips For Anxiety In Autism?
The key to managing anxiety is identifying triggers. Once these triggers are recognized, coping mechanisms can be developed. For individuals with ASD, managing anxiety often involves creating a safe and predictable environment.
Following routines, using visual aids, and practicing relaxation techniques are all helpful strategies.
Desensitization techniques, where a person is gradually exposed to feared or uncomfortable situations, can also be useful with the guidance of a therapist.
“A person with autism lives in his own world, while a person with Asperger’s lives in our world, in a way of his own choosing” – Nicholas Sparks (Image Credit: Canva)
These might include relaxation techniques like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation.
Creating visual schedules and using sensory integration treatment can provide a sense of control and reduce anxiety, allowing people with autism to cope with sensory processing disorders, while self-soothing activities like stimming or focusing on a special interest can be grounding during anxious moments.
At last, Dr. Meenakshi said, It is vital to acknowledge that successful anxiety management often requires a multifaceted approach. In situations where anxiety becomes particularly severe, seeking professional intervention from a therapist or counselor specializing in ASD is highly recommended.