Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting the way people socialize, think, and behave. It is also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It is a spectrum, where the symptoms and intensity of them vary from person to person.
Some of symptoms of ASD are as follows:
● Difficulty maintaining eye contact
● Echolalia (repeating of words)
● Extreme or lower sensitivity to noises, lighting, textures, and other sensory input
● Being upset at slight changes in routine
● Struggles in small talk and other social cues
● A strong or prolonged interest in something, and the urge to talk about it for hours
Autism can be caused by many factors, such as genetics- there is not one known cause for it. However, it is important to remember vaccines do not cause autism! Autism is present at birth and can be identified as early as 18 months. It is recommended to get tested at 2 years if autistic traits are present.
Emotional Dysregulation in Autism
Research shows that autistic children and teenagers are four times more likely to experience emotional dysregulation than allistic (not autistic) youth. A study conducted by SPARK mentions that many of the kids experienced meltdowns, a sudden feeling with strong emotions which couldn’t be controlled. They can cause tantrums and repetitive actions including hitting themselves or the people around them. These meltdowns and heightened emotional dysregulation are likely caused by the fact that autistic people struggle with naming and recognizing emotions. This idea is commonly known as alexithymia.
Research has shown there is a possibility of a relation between meltdowns and mood disorders such as anxiety or depression. Some even say that emotional dysregulation could be also related to heightened depression and anxiety rates in people who have autism.
What can help?
In the moment during a meltdown, there are many things that can be helpful to one with autism. These include taking deep breaths, regulation zones where the person is able to communicate non-verbally and is provided a calming space, or a really tight hug. In the long-term, modeling proper emotional responses, finding the common triggers, or even therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be useful to managing emotional dysregulation.
References:
Autism spectrum disorder. (2024, February). National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved August 29, 2024, from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/Autism-spectrum-disorders-asd
Brown, J. (2024, July 8). Emotional regulation: 25 ways to help your autistic child. Autism Parenting Magazine. Retrieved August 25, 2024, from https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/help-child-with-emotional-regulation/
Sarris, M. (Ed.). (2022, March 24). Autism, meltdowns, and the struggle to manage emotions. SPARK. Retrieved August 25, 2024, from https://sparkforautism.org/discover_article/managing-emotions/
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