autistic women: 16 *unrecognized* signs

Recent questions

• What are some common social challenges faced by individuals with autism?

  Individuals with autism often experience social challenges such as overthinking, anxiety, and self-blame in social situations. These difficulties can lead to exhaustion and fatigue from managing social dynamics and sensory issues. Sensory issues like smells and sounds can be overwhelming and hard to control, leading to masking behavior to fit societal norms and manage perceptions. Dating issues may involve fantasy creation and sensory discomfort, while chronic anxiety and depression are often hidden behind a facade of functionality.

• How do individuals with autism cope with sensory overload?

  Individuals with autism may cope with sensory overload by predicting sensory exposure and social expectations. They may engage in secret stemming behaviors, like skin picking or blanket rubbing, to manage pleasure and regulation challenges. Clumsiness and proprioception issues, such as dropping items frequently or bruising easily, are common in neurodiverse individuals. Preferring solitude for regulation and peace allows for self-regulation and relief from overstimulation.

• What are some common coping mechanisms for individuals with autism?

  Common coping mechanisms for individuals with autism include faking and minimizing the difficulties of daily tasks, like cleaning or managing a household. This behavior serves as a coping mechanism to navigate the challenges of daily life. Additionally, high empathy towards animals is a common trait among neurodiverse individuals, seeking safety and understanding in their company.

• How can individuals with autism manage social expectations?

  Individuals with autism can manage social expectations by predicting sensory exposure and understanding neurodiversity. By embracing individuality and unmasking trauma, they can navigate social situations more effectively. It is crucial for them to recognize their own needs for regulation and peace, often preferring solitude for relief from overstimulation.

• What are some common traits of autism in women?

  Common traits of autism in women include overthinking, anxiety, and self-blame in social situations. These traits can apply to anyone, emphasizing the importance of understanding neurodiversity. Women with autism may also experience exhaustion and fatigue from managing social dynamics and sensory issues, as well as sensory overload from smells and sounds. Masking behavior to fit societal norms and managing perceptions is a common coping mechanism for many.