Autism can show itself in many ways, and some autistic people might not even know they are autistic. So, how do you know if you might be autistic? Today we will look into about five signs to watch out for.
Introduction
You may have experienced a sense of not quite fitting in with the crowd or finding that things don’t seem to align for you in the same way they do for others; this might actually indicate signs of autism. It could be surprising to discover that these experiences could be related to autism.
What is Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) ?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a way of thinking and experiencing the world that’s different from what most people are used to. This difference can come with a lot of strengths and unique ways of seeing things! The only thing is that it can also sometimes make things a bit challenging. Autism can show itself in many ways, and some autistic people might not even know they are autistic. So, how do you know if you might be autistic? Here are 6 signs to look out for:
Signs and Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders
1. Social Interaction
Hanging out with people can be tough when you’re autistic. Sometimes things people say might not mean exactly what they sound like. For example, your friend might say, “That was awful!” but actually mean they really enjoyed the movie. Figuring out these “social cues” can be confusing! Body language—those unspoken ways people communicate with their faces and bodies—can also be a mystery.
Making new friends or keeping conversations going can feel like a lot of effort. You might find yourself preferring to spend time alone or with just a few close friends who “get” you.
2. Communication
Sometimes you may find it hard to express yourself in a way others understand, or you may find it hard to tell when someone is kidding or being sarcastic. People might use figures of speech, like saying “It’s raining cats and dogs!” to mean it’s raining really hard. These can be confusing for autistic people. Talking about your feelings might also be difficult.
3. Sensory Processing
The sound of a dripping faucet may be extremely irritating, and certain fabrics might feel intolerable against your skin. This sensitivity to sights, sounds, smells, or textures is another common autistic trait. Sometimes the world can feel a bit too much for autistic people, and they might need to take breaks from noisy or crowded places.
On the other hand, some autistic people might really enjoy certain sensory experiences. They might like repetitive sounds like music or the hum of a fan or find comfort in fidgeting with objects. This is called stimming, and it’s a way to feel calm and focused.
4. Restricted Interests and Repetitive Behaviors
Autistic people do have intense interests that they can spend hours researching or learning about. They might become experts in dinosaurs, video games, or anything that sparks their curiosity. These deep dives can be a source of great joy and satisfaction for them.
Autistic people also often find comfort in routines and having a predictable schedule. Knowing what to expect can help them feel more secure and in control of their environment.
5. Emotional Regulation
Autistic people might have difficulty expressing their emotions in a way that others can easily understand. They might also experience emotions very intensely, even for seemingly minor events. Understanding and responding to the emotions of others can also be a bit challenging. This can sometimes lead to misunderstandings in social situations.
The Way Forward (How to Embrace Your Superpowers)
If you notice yourself in some (or even all) of these signs, it will be a great idea to chat with a qualified mental health professional. Going for a diagnosis of autism isn’t a bad thing; this is just a way of understanding yourself better. you knowing that you’re autistic can help you in so many ways, like finding support groups, learning strategies to manage challenges, and ultimately, improving your quality of life. There are many resources available online and in your community to help autistic people thrive.
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Conclusion
Being autistic is a unique way of experiencing the world, which comes with its own set of challenges but also incredible strengths! If you think you might be autistic, do well to reach out for help and embrace the unique journey of self-discovery. There’s a whole world out there that celebrates and appreciates the unique perspectives of autistic people, and that includes you!
