Adult Autism: Mental Health and Sensory Needs
For individuals with autism, navigating a world that often misunderstands their behavior can have negative impacts on mental health and well-being. Without a proper diagnosis or support, many adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) must manage their well-being on their own.
Autism is a difference in the way someone's brain and nervous system function compared to neurotypical brains. It doesn't need to be "treated" or "fixed." As Alisyn Van Note, a licensed professional counselor specializing in autism with Burrell Behavioral Health explains: "Autism could best be described as a lens through which we see the world. It is simply how the brain works."
That said, there are strategies, tools, and skills that can help autistic individuals navigate the challenges they face in daily life.
Dr. Seth Allen, ED.D., director of Autism Services at Brightli affiliate Burrell Behavioral Health recommends several approaches for individuals with autism to manage mental health and reduce the sense of being overwhelmed:
- Establish a predictable routine to reduce anxiety and create a sense of control.
- Build self-advocacy skills by developing confidence in expressing needs and setting boundaries.
- Understand your unique needs. Self-awareness is key to effective communication and self-care.
- Practice self-compassion.
“We are going to mess up; we are human,” Van Note said. “We do not need to hold onto the expectations we or others have put up for ourselves; we can, in fact, just exist and just be without doing more.”
Van Note said it’s also important for individuals with autism to be kind and compassionate with themselves.
“We sometimes have a hard time, and we didn't know then what we know now,” Van Note said. “And when we mess it up, because we will and we do, it is OK. It is OK when we are OK, and it is OK when we are not OK."
Stimming, or self-stimulatory behavior, is a natural way autistic individuals regulate sensory input. Common stimming behaviors include rocking, hand-flapping, humming, or fidgeting, which can help manage stress, improve focus and provide comfort. While stimming is beneficial, it’s also important to recognize when it becomes overwhelming or disruptive and find strategies to balance sensory needs.
Understanding all eight of your sensory systems can help manage overstimulation and sensory distress. Identifying sensory triggers and using personalized regulation strategies—such as noise-canceling headphones, adjusting lighting, or taking sensory breaks—can make a big difference in daily life.
The eight sensory systems include:
- Auditory (Hearing) – Noise levels, background sounds and voices
- Visual (Sight) – Lighting, colors and movement sensitivity
- Olfactory (Smell) – Sensitivity to scents and odors
- Gustatory (Taste) – Textures, flavors and food preferences
- Proprioception (Body Awareness) – Awareness of body position and movement
- Tactile (Touch) – Sensitivity to textures, fabrics or physical contact
- Vestibular (Balance & Movement) – Sensation of motion, dizziness or balance issues
- Interoception (Internal Awareness) – Sensations like hunger, thirst or emotions
Recognizing and respecting sensory needs benefits everyone, not just autistic individuals. Workplaces, schools, and public spaces can normalize sensory-friendly accommodations like quiet rooms, flexible seating, and scent-free policies. By understanding sensory regulation and advocating for adjustments, we can create environments where everyone feels comfortable, focused, and supported.
Autism rarely exists in isolation. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR), autistic individuals are more likely to experience a range of co-occurring mental health and medical conditions, including:
- Anxiety (up to 84%)
- Depression (26%)
- Epilepsy (35%)
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Metabolic disorders
- Sleep disorders
Co-Occurring Conditions and Autism - Autism Research Institute
There are also strong connections between autism and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The two conditions share overlapping symptoms like sensory sensitivities, difficulties in social situations, repetitive behaviors, emotional regulation challenges, avoidance and communication difficulties. Autism and PTSD: Overlap, link, and treatment
Some conditions, like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and sensory processing disorder (SPD), share similarities with autism, sometimes leading to diagnostic confusion. Because of this, it's crucial to seek care from professionals who understand autism and its co-occurring conditions.
Autism can be challenging due to social stigma, unique sensory needs and co-occurring conditions that often accompany it. But it doesn’t have to define or constrain anyone’s future. With the right strategies and support, challenges can become growth opportunities.
The path forward isn’t just about managing autism. It’s about creating spaces where autistic individuals can thrive in a way that works for them, unapologetically. In our next article, we’ll explore the ways society can embrace and support neurodivergent adults, paving the way for a more open and accepting future.