Anxiety and Autism: Understanding the Connection

Anxiety is a common co-occurring condition in individuals with autism, with around 80-85% of autistic people experiencing diagnosed anxiety. The relationship between autism and anxiety is complex and can vary among individuals. Some medical professionals attribute anxiety to being a separate condition, while others believe it may be a manifestation of autistic traits. Autistic people often face social anxiety disorder (SAD), which involves a persistent fear of social situations and being judged or scrutinized by others. This can lead to significant anxiety and self-consciousness, impacting everyday interactions and activities. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is another common form of anxiety experienced by autistic individuals. GAD involves persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life, such as work, health, family, and finance, causing intense distress and interfering with daily routines. Other anxiety triggers for autistic individuals include changes in routine, interruptions, neurotypical expectations, misunderstandings, and public transportation or travel anxiety. These triggers can cause significant anxiety and stress, highlighting the need for increased understanding and support for the autistic community.