How can you know if an adult has autism communication problems? There are certain signs and symptoms an adult with autism may have that present differently from the symptoms children with autism display. Keep reading to learn more about identifying and treating communication struggles related to autism.
What Is an Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that causes a wide range of conditions and subtypes at varying levels of severity. Common characteristics of ASD are social skills and nonverbal communication challenges, and repetitive behaviors. In addition, individuals with autism may struggle to relate to others and have difficulty understanding emotions. Because it is a spectrum disorder, autism looks different from person to person.
In most cases, people with autism receive a childhood diagnosis, but some make it to adulthood without a diagnosis. Adults with autism often have other sensory issues or medical problems, such as seizures, gastrointestinal disorders, sleep disorders, or mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, and attention deficit disorder. However, an ASD diagnosis can open the door to better treatment options and support for individuals on the spectrum.
What Are the Common Autism Communication Problems in Adults?
Are you trying to determine if an adult in your life has ASD? Or maybe you are searching for the best treatment options available. Identifying communication issues is an excellent place to begin.
Some of the communications problems adults with ASD experience include:
- Avoiding eye contact
- Struggling to make conversation
- Difficulty regulating emotions
- Experiencing hypersensitivity to sounds
- Making repetitive or involuntary noises like clearing the throat
- Lacking understanding when it comes to idioms and sarcasm
- Struggling to comprehend other\’s emotions, body language, and facial expressions
- Lacking inflection while speaking
- Discussing the same subject repeatedly
Symptoms may be milder in adults than in children, which makes getting an ASD diagnosis as an adult more challenging. In addition, in some cases, people who have been living with autism for years tend to mask their symptoms.
Explore ASD Therapeutic Options to Improve Communication Skills
Licensed Professional Counselor Taylor Trussel at Positive Living Psychotherapy can help adults with ASD overcome communication challenges and improve their crucial life skills. Taylor specializes in treating OCD, trauma, anxiety, and insomnia. He also has the Self-Management and Recovery Training (SMART) certification to help adults manage addictive and compulsive behaviors.
Above all, Taylor provides a safe, compassionate therapeutic environment for adults with autism who wish to improve their communication skills. His approach is evidence-based and customized to meet each client\’s unique needs. With a master\’s degree in counseling and a Ph.D. in philosophy, Taylor brings an insightful perspective to each therapy session and is dedicated to helping clients experience more success and fulfillment in life.
Connect with Taylor at Positive Living Psychotherapy online to learn more about identifying autism communication problems in adults. Or call 770.552.0333 to schedule a free phone consultation.