Skip to main content Skip to bottom nav
Community /

Autism Support Forum

Info
882 Friends
Filter by Topic
Community Space Discussions & Resources Living with Autism Sensory
Community calendar
Group chat
Ask questions, get support and make friends
Find a group chat
My communities
Considering Therapy?
Talk to an expert therapist
New subscribers
Create a New Thread
Gif Photo Link
Jenna profile picture
The Struggle of Being Autistic and Identifying Emotions
by Jenna
Last post
 November 26th
...See more **Disclaimer** I cannot and do not speak for all autistic people. As an autistic person, one of the biggest challenges I face is identifying and understanding my emotions. It’s not that I don’t feel emotions. In fact, I often experience them intensely, but I struggle to recognize and label them. This disconnect between feeling something deeply and not being able to articulate it can be confusing and overwhelming. Sometimes, emotions feel like a wave crashing over me, but I can't tell if it's sadness, anger, or frustration. Other times, I know something is off, but I can’t pinpoint exactly what it is. It's like having a whirlwind of feelings inside but no clear way to describe the storm. I might react to something, and later when I reflect, I realize I was angry or anxious, but in the moment, it was just a blur of overwhelming sensations. The process of identifying emotions can feel even more daunting for many autistic people because there’s often pressure to explain how they're feeling to others, but finding the right words doesn’t come easily. I tend to rely more on physical cues, like noticing if my body is tense, my breathing shallow, or my heart racing, as a way to recognize what I’m feeling. Sometimes it’s easier to express a feeling through a sound, like a sigh or groan, than to find the exact word to describe it. What adds to the challenge is that neurotypical people often expect quick, clear emotional responses. But for many of us with autism or neurodivergence, emotions take time to process. It can feel like we're on a delay, needing space to sit with what’s going on inside before we can understand or talk about it. I’ve had to learn that it’s okay to take that time and not rush to name my emotions if I’m not ready. Being autistic means we process the world differently, and that includes emotions. It’s a journey to understand them, and sometimes, we have to be patient with ourselves, accepting that we don’t always have the answers right away. I’ve learned to explore my emotions through journaling, creating art, or even just sitting with a feeling without trying to label it immediately. The struggle to identify emotions is real, but over time, I’ve come to see it as part of my unique way of experiencing life. For anyone else out there who shares this struggle, know that it’s okay not to have everything figured out all at once. Emotions can be complex, and finding your own way of understanding them is a process. Why Is It Difficult? * Alexithymia: A significant number of autistic people experience alexithymia, a condition where we struggle to identify and describe our own emotions. This doesn’t mean we don’t feel emotions; instead, we find it hard to pinpoint what those emotions are or how they connect to our experiences. For example, someone might feel an overwhelming physical sensation (like a knot in their stomach) but may not realize that they are anxious or upset. * Sensory Overload: Many autistic people experience sensory sensitivities, which can lead to sensory overload. When overwhelmed by stimuli like loud noises, bright lights, or even social environments, the body and mind can react intensely. In these situations, it can be hard to differentiate between physical discomfort and emotional states. For instance, an environment that feels overstimulating may trigger frustration, but the frustration itself might be difficult to separate from the overwhelming sensory input. * Nuanced Emotions: Emotions often come in layers or blends (e.g., feeling both happy and sad at the same time). Identifying these complex emotional states can be challenging for anyone, but for those on the spectrum, this complexity can feel especially confusing. Autistic people might struggle to name nuanced emotions, such as feeling bittersweet, relieved but nervous, or nostalgic. * Social-Emotional Processing: Interpreting others’ emotions can also be difficult, which in turn complicates identifying one's own emotions. Social cues that neurotypical individuals pick up on such as facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language may be harder to interpret for those on the spectrum. This can create a disconnection between what an autistic person feels internally and how they understand the emotional dynamics around them. * Communication Barriers: Language may not always feel like an appropriate tool for expressing emotions. Many autistic people may struggle with verbalizing their feelings, not because they don’t understand them, but because words don’t seem to fully capture the intensity or quality of what they’re experiencing. Non-verbal expressions like sounds, movements, or even art can sometimes be more effective than trying to 'find the right words.' The Emotional Disconnect Because emotions and their physical manifestations may not always align clearly, autistic individuals can experience a sense of emotional disconnect. For instance, they may feel strong emotions but not show them in a way that others expect, leading to misunderstandings in social situations. Conversely, they may appear visibly upset or anxious without being fully aware of the underlying emotional cause. Strategies for Identifying Emotions * Body Awareness: Focusing on physical sensations can be a starting point for identifying emotions. For example, noticing a tightness in the chest may signal stress or anxiety, while a lightness in the body might indicate joy. By tuning into these signals, individuals can begin to make connections between what they feel physically and emotionally. * Emotional Charts or Apps: Visual aids, such as emotion charts or mood-tracking apps, can be helpful for identifying emotions. These break down emotions into basic categories, making it easier to recognize patterns and link feelings to specific experiences. * Routine Emotional Check-ins: Scheduling regular emotional check-ins throughout the day can help build emotional awareness. Asking questions like, “How do I feel right now?” and “What might have caused this feeling?” can develop a habit of reflection, helping us recognize emotions more readily over time. * Creative Expression: Art, music, or other creative outlets can be powerful ways to express emotions when words aren’t enough. Drawing how an emotion feels, playing a musical piece that reflects a mood, or even writing poetry can offer alternative avenues for emotional understanding and communication. * Seeking Support: Working with a therapist or counselor experienced in autism can also provide valuable insights. These professionals can guide us through recognizing our emotions and offering techniques and frameworks that are tailored to our specific needs and experiences. Being autistic doesn’t mean someone is emotionless or lacks empathy; rather, it means their emotional landscape might operate differently. By acknowledging these challenges and providing supportive tools and strategies, we can foster greater emotional self-awareness and communication for autistic people. With understanding, patience, and compassion, we can help create a space where identifying and expressing emotions feels safe and achievable.
tommy profile picture
Autism Automated Taglist!
by tommy
Last post
 October 24th
...See more Welcome to the Autism Taglist This thread is an auto-updating list. The list is regularly updated by forum leaders and can be found below. Having issues? Reply below and someone will help you! Why should I join the taglist? ✔ Never miss out on sub-community check-ins, discussions or events ✔ Get tagged and notified by community leaders whenever a new relevant thread has been posted ✔ Become a more active member of the community. What do I need to do? ✅ To add yourself to this taglist, press the Post to Thread button below and write the exact words Please add me. ❌ To remove yourself from this taglist, press the Post to Thread button below and write the exact words Please remove me. ------------------------- Current taglist as of 29 Dec (updated by tommy) @Alwayshungry983 @AutiBoy @azuladragon34 @beck1 @courteousCoconut2519 @Fozziewozzie @GwydionRowan @HarmonyBlossom @HatsEatYou @Howegeorgia @Jenna @JovianPlutonian @JustMeUwU @llemonz @LoveMyMoonflowers @NeurospicyGirl @NightOwl2003 @pineapple7722 @Plantsaremybestfriends @RainbowRosie @sentientape @silentbuster26 @SillyBlue32 @SleepyShyCat @smolLITTLEpotato @softParadise5949 @Stasia86 @StressedGirl @SunnyCat0 @teenytinyturtle @theboymoana @tommy @Trosclair03 @Twigo7 @unassumingPeach6421 @Vivikun9 @wishfulWillow6962 @Zahrian2112
Jenna profile picture
5 Things You Shouldn’t Say to Someone on the Autism Spectrum
by Jenna
Last post
 October 17th
...See more Although the general public has become more aware of autism, there’s still a long way to go. The autistic community has commonly been told some phrases that we frankly don’t want to hear. These comments can be ignorant and hurtful, even with good intentions. Here are five things you shouldn’t say to someone on the autism spectrum. 1) “You can’t possibly be autistic” Why would you flat-out deny something I know I am? It’s not up to you to decide who is autistic! We often get this comment when others hear that we have a relationship, a job, a child, or an educational qualification. They become skeptical and say, “But you’re doing so well. You can’t possibly be autistic!” Unusually, we also get this from those who are very familiar with autism. A parent might say, “You’re not autistic! You’re nothing like my autistic child who can’t do anything independently.” The truth is that everyone with autism is different and a diagnosis is not destiny. We consider it prejudiced to assume that autistic people are all lost causes who can’t possibly succeed in life. We can be capable of so much if we have an open mind. 2) “You must be good at math” Not this misconception again! We get it, you’ve heard too many negative things about autism and you want to compliment us instead. But again, we’re all different. People on the autism spectrum have just as much variety as those outside it. This includes our abilities, which don’t always match the media stereotype. Some of us are great at math and some of us are terrible. Some of us are natural with computers and some of us are technologically illiterate. Some of us are savants and some of us struggle intellectually. Just like you, there’s no single profile of our mental abilities. Putting some abilities on a pedestal can exclude autistic people who lack those abilities and make them feel inferior. 3) “You don’t look autistic. You seem so normal” What does this even mean? How does someone look autistic? How does someone look normal? We’re physically no different from the rest of you. There’s no way for someone to look autistic at all. This comment is even worse if this is supposed to be a compliment. It suggests that seeming “autistic” is inferior and seeming “normal” is an ideal standard. We’re just different from you and we don’t want to be forced to be someone we’re not. 4) “What’s it like to be autistic?” What a strange and generic question. I might as well ask you, “What’s it like to be not autistic?” We don’t even know where to begin to answer this. Being autistic is everything we know. It’s in every single experience we have from day to day. Also, there’s no unified autistic life experience. Every autistic person has their own unique life, with experiences different from the others. Are there any experiences that are universally shared between all of us? Sure. We all get asked these silly questions. 5) “Everyone’s on the autism spectrum” No, they’re not. Trust me. Those who make this comment are suggesting that everyone understands and shares our struggles to some degree. Is this supposed to make us feel better? Well, it doesn’t work, because it’s a totally false suggestion. Others don’t know what it’s like to be autistic and never will. As funny as it is to say, only autistic people are autistic. This comment isn’t reassuring, it’s totally dismissive of our unique struggles and experiences. Have you heard any of the comments mentioned in the article? References Brown, L. (2012, February 27). 15 Things You Should Never Say To An Autistic. AWN. https://awnnetwork.org/15-things-you-should-never-say-to-an-autistic/ Hirschberg, E. (2017, December 13). What To Say & What Not To Say To Someone With Autism. Research Autism. https://researchautism.org/what-to-say-what-not-to-say-to-someone-with-autism/ [https://researchautism.org/what-to-say-what-not-to-say-to-someone-with-autism/] Stout, A. (2016, July 6). 11 Things Not to Say to Someone with Autism. The Autism Site. https://blog.theautismsite.greatergood.com/dont-say-autism/ [https://blog.theautismsite.greatergood.com/dont-say-autism/] credit [x [https://psych2go.net/5-things-you-shouldnt-say-to-someone-on-the-autism-spectrum/]]
determinedSea4370 profile picture
ADHD friend
by determinedSea4370
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more One of my best friends has ADHD and despite knowing her since grade school, I feel like the ADHD has only started to come between us in the last few years or so (we are just post-college now). Before, we were able to listen to music, dance, play dolls, talk about manga and anime, create cosplays, write stories together, and draw together. Since college began, she gave up writing stories with me (because she can't focus and she told me I'm just a better writer anyways) and drawing (same excuses) and she won't cosplay with me anymore (can't focus and she says the conventions are a waste of time and money). She's addicted to YouTube and advent calendars and nail polish and going shopping and crystals and her phone- she's a self proclaimed 'material gorl'. She has to text everyone while she is with me. She darts from one overwhelmingly shiny thing to the next to the next and I drive her shopping while really enjoying nothing. She shoves dumb YouTube shorts and TikToks in my face and I am overwhelmed. We almost never talk about deeper/more complex topics or non-materalistic stuff and I love her and I want to support her, but it literally kills me hanging out with her and I don't know what to do. Without someone to support my own interests, I've lost my interest in those interests and I am massively depressed and feeling lost. Hanging out with her is at once too much and also not enough. It's like eating cake with lots of empty calories- I just feel so sick.
AshleyGamer1995 profile picture
...I am so ANGRY right now. -_-'
by AshleyGamer1995
Last post
 Saturday
...See more Because...7 Cups just said the "G" word in my notifications list, mentioning about "G Play" which I did NOT expect. What is "G"? It's the search engine company that EVERYONE knows. I'd rather not mention their name fully because it's INSULTING to me. Yes, EVERYTHING about G is annoying to me, from their logo, sounding and being used for practically ANYTHING in life which ALSO angers me and steals away my enjoyment in things and stuff. It is a LOT to explain why I hate them and ALWAYS have hated them for ALL years of my life, I know, but... If you folks reply to me about them, PLEASE don't type in their name fully; either just use the FIRST letter here (G) or have their name censored. Otherwise, one use of their word in full and I will NOT reply or say ANY more here, since there is NO way to erase even MY threads like this for no reason, or edit them. >:/ I am sorry, but unlike MOST people in the world, I DO have this hatred to them, because they are antagonistic to me, mentally-speaking, as well as them being CLEVER on EVERYTHING they conflict with. And yes, I KNOW that THEIR logo is also shown in 7 Cups's logon screen and below these threads, as the common "Get it on G Play" label, but FOR ME, I would NOT choose to LOOK at those, and instead have my hand blocking them out (I put my hand in front of the computer screen, that is). But still, I ALWAYS wished they did NOT exist in this horrible world...but they DO, unfortunately, no matter where I go and what I do. T_T* Honestly, what gave THEM the RIGHT to live in this world AND be WELL-RECOGNISED by EVERYONE?!?!?! WHY are they NEVER-QUITTING?!?!?! WHY must they DAMAGE the "OTHER" things that I "DO" like OTHERWISE?!?!?! Ridiculous!!! > = ( Of course... I NEVER get to be called "famous" (another word I hate seeing and hearing AND it getting USED FOR THINGS I ADMIRE, too) by ANYONE in my life WHATSOEVER, because I DON'T DESERVE IT and that I'M a STUPID IDIOT as well. Yeah, well, go ahead and say uncomfortable things to me like "grow up" or "you're not valid" or "they are a great company and you must respect that", et cetra cetra, but those AREN'T going to help with my mental health at ALL. I just WANTED to let out my feelings here about what I hate ("G" themselves) and what I don't get (being referred to as renowned). Again it is a LOT to explain as a WHOLE story I've been GOING through in my ENTIRE life, but... WHY SHOULD I EXPLAIN IT ALL AGAIN WHEN I ALREADY HAVE DONE ON ANOTHER SITE, LIKE THE "National Autistic Society" ONE THAT FAILS TO UNDERSTAND ME AND MY MENTAL ISSUES, BUT SIMPLY DAMAGE ME WITH INSULTS AND MISUNDERSTANDING?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?! T_T* T_T* T_T* But I know... YOU people will not CARE, understanding or not, even HERE on 7 Cups which I THOUGHT it is SUPPOSED to be about sharing problems and feelings and SO ON. What else? -_-'
toadofstool profile picture
How to take a break from masking?
by toadofstool
Last post
 December 11th
...See more Hello everyone I’ve been a lurker here for quite some time and I appreciate what everyone does here and contributes. Unfortunately I mask almost all of the time. Like to everyone, to therapists, people online, and even to myself when I’m alone sometimes. Half of this message is a product of me masking (albeit not as much as usual). I say this because I’m just always scrutinizing every little thing I do, say, and write and it’s so so tiring. I think it’s just been a survival mechanism and it still is to some extent. It used to be so helpful but now I think it’s just making me sick (mentally and physically). I feel awful and I think this is why I’m nearly always tired and miserable. I don’t know how to stop, though. I try to stop but it’s like second nature where I even mask unmasking (like pretending to unmask in a “socially acceptable” way if that makes sense??) I’ve been doing it for my entire life and it feels like I cannot give myself a break or else everything will fall apart. I’m not sure anymore. I am terrified of change but I know the way I’m living is not sustainable. Has anyone else felt this way? I could use whatever advice anyone can provide.
Tryingmybest4 profile picture
Supporting My Wife
by Tryingmybest4
Last post
 December 9th
...See more Hello, Mt wife was recently diagnosed with autism. It helps to explain a number of things about her. We've been happily married for over 10 years with occasional ups and downs. Currently she is struggling with what appears to be autistic burn out. For the last month I have covered virtually all home responsibilities (we have 3 kids), and am trying to be sensitive to her needs.  We are hitting 3 or 4 weeks in a row where I have done something to trigger a deep emotional spiral. Once we get there I seem to make things worse because I get so indecisive. I can't tell if I'm supposed to give her space or stay near. Sometimes what she needs (like me getting her specific food) also causes her to feel more guilt which seems to exasperate the symptoms. It's triggering to her when I ask questions during meltdowns (which can last days), but I don't know how to help so I default to asking questions.  I am extremely different from her, but I'm trying to understand and help. Currently feeling at my wit's end. Not sure if I have any specific question to ask here, but I'm nor sure what else to do.
Disneywoman profile picture
Trying to prevent a meltdown by buying cheese and Mom's mad at that?
by Disneywoman
Last post
 December 8th
...See more So I'm get grumpy if my family gets low on something like cheese. I'm was on my last brick of "my cheese" and I had none in the basement.  Yes it would last maybe for a week-but when most of my lunches or suppers require cheese: Lunch: Mircowave cheese sandwhiches mircowave chilli Bagel with cheese either microwave or stove omelet  Crackers and Cheese  Supper: homemade Mac and Cheese stove-top  omlette  _______________________________________ I have meltdowns or get really upset if stuff like Orange juice isn't ready for when I want it.  Because I need to have OJ at a spefic time either for lunch or for breakfast depending on the day.   I'm afraid once I ran out of my cheese and had none in the fridge in the basement I would have a meltdown because I can't think of much to eat that doesn't require cheese in some shape or form- except for Ramyeon and soup and I need to save the ramyeon for every other Thursday when mom's at choir during the winter time and I only have 2 of my "weird soups" left I'm not sure if the 3rd one is one of my "werid soups" or not (potato and bacon soup but its 90% is).   So to avoid a potential meltdown in the future I went to get some bricks of cheese -Armstrong cheese: 1 block of Monterary Check  1 block of Mexcian festival (both my cheeses) 1 Marbel chesee 1. Old cheese  (Mom  cheese which I use for Pizza) 1. cream cheese (Herb and Garlic)-I was runing out of this  3 containers of dip- one tzakzi dip, one 5 cheese dip and 1 spinach dip (I found out afterwards I didn't need the spinach dip) 1 jar of  cheez whiz-also running out of this and I had no back up and 4 jars of OJ ($2.47) the only thing that was NOT on my mental list was 2 bags of Armstrong Shredded cheese but when it was on sale for $2.47 that's cheap). The cost of everything was $82.60 (since i'm in Canada round it up to $83.00) ________________________________________ So when I got home my parents had just gotten home as well and Mom's was like "I hope you didn't buy 10 blocks of cheese".  I mean I have my own money and I was being proactive in preventing myself from having a meltdown in the future of either no cheese or no OJ (the only cans remaining until I brought 4 today- were from 2013 and they're ancient and would be very "off" after one time we had no avaible juice) So why in the world is my Mom mad at me for me trying to prevent a meltdown of "no cheese" by going to buy expensive cheese (the actuall price is $11.69  so its $12.00)  i could have gotten 2 of MOm's cheese for cheaper but I didn't know about the sale until after I got to that area on my way to the OJ section
RainbowRosie profile picture
Mince pies…and Christmas Trees - Autism Support 🎄🎄🎄
by RainbowRosie
Last post
 December 6th
...See more Hiya everyone.   Rosie here with a check in to see how you’re all doing? ❤️.            Also sending out a ‘hello and welcome’ to anyone who has recently joined the community. It’s lovely to have you all aboard. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or worries you have. We are here for you and can offer our support ❤️. With Christmas just around the corner, are you all on target?  Most importantly, don’t forget the mince pies!!! 🥧😀 My Christmas tree isn’t up yet, so that’s a job for tomorrow 🎄. I do think it’s probably my favourite part of Christmas, putting the tree up.  What’s your favourite part of Christmas? Feel free to drop a line or if not your thing, no problem just heart to say ‘hi’ ❤️ Wishing a Happy Christmas to everyone 🎄🎅🎄🎅 Take care,  Rosie 🌹
ThePoetandthePen profile picture
My mother Hates me
by ThePoetandthePen
Last post
 December 3rd
...See more Before my autistic diagnosis some years ago, I was always a girl who just thought she was quirky or nerdy or geeky and had some difficulties. After it...However, everyone around me changed. I had nothing to be sad about. I didn't understand the grief that people talk about with getting a diagnosis. What's there to be sad about? Im me. But... When I got my diagnosis i'll tell you what made me sad. My father told me he wished I hadn't had an autism diagnosis and my mother began to hate me. My mother grew mad at me. My mother was angry. I was depressed more by her sudden anger towards me than having a diagnosis. I didn't understand what I was doing wrong. She was making me fit into things I didn't want. So I snuck what I liked to college. Clothes, food, anything I wanted I just.... Honestly I stopped liking myself. I hated myself because of her and my dad. I just.... I didn't want get out of bed, I didn't want to live. And nothing has changed. The pandemic made me suffer more and they made me feel suffocated. Every day even now I feel stifled with their unkindness and their cruel words about my clothes and my habits, my likes and my friends and everything. Im old enough to be on my own but they won't even consider that. Life has me at its standstill. I feel alone in this. And saddened more than I can express. My mother hates me. My family doesn't understand. Im surrounded by ignorance every day and they make me wish I wasn't autistic. If I don't often talk about it its nevertheless because of them. 
Omnia52 profile picture
borderline personality
by Omnia52
Last post
 November 30th
...See more Can borderline personality disorder recover?
Jenna profile picture
The Struggle of Being Autistic and Identifying Emotions
by Jenna
Last post
 November 26th
...See more **Disclaimer** I cannot and do not speak for all autistic people. As an autistic person, one of the biggest challenges I face is identifying and understanding my emotions. It’s not that I don’t feel emotions. In fact, I often experience them intensely, but I struggle to recognize and label them. This disconnect between feeling something deeply and not being able to articulate it can be confusing and overwhelming. Sometimes, emotions feel like a wave crashing over me, but I can't tell if it's sadness, anger, or frustration. Other times, I know something is off, but I can’t pinpoint exactly what it is. It's like having a whirlwind of feelings inside but no clear way to describe the storm. I might react to something, and later when I reflect, I realize I was angry or anxious, but in the moment, it was just a blur of overwhelming sensations. The process of identifying emotions can feel even more daunting for many autistic people because there’s often pressure to explain how they're feeling to others, but finding the right words doesn’t come easily. I tend to rely more on physical cues, like noticing if my body is tense, my breathing shallow, or my heart racing, as a way to recognize what I’m feeling. Sometimes it’s easier to express a feeling through a sound, like a sigh or groan, than to find the exact word to describe it. What adds to the challenge is that neurotypical people often expect quick, clear emotional responses. But for many of us with autism or neurodivergence, emotions take time to process. It can feel like we're on a delay, needing space to sit with what’s going on inside before we can understand or talk about it. I’ve had to learn that it’s okay to take that time and not rush to name my emotions if I’m not ready. Being autistic means we process the world differently, and that includes emotions. It’s a journey to understand them, and sometimes, we have to be patient with ourselves, accepting that we don’t always have the answers right away. I’ve learned to explore my emotions through journaling, creating art, or even just sitting with a feeling without trying to label it immediately. The struggle to identify emotions is real, but over time, I’ve come to see it as part of my unique way of experiencing life. For anyone else out there who shares this struggle, know that it’s okay not to have everything figured out all at once. Emotions can be complex, and finding your own way of understanding them is a process. Why Is It Difficult? * Alexithymia: A significant number of autistic people experience alexithymia, a condition where we struggle to identify and describe our own emotions. This doesn’t mean we don’t feel emotions; instead, we find it hard to pinpoint what those emotions are or how they connect to our experiences. For example, someone might feel an overwhelming physical sensation (like a knot in their stomach) but may not realize that they are anxious or upset. * Sensory Overload: Many autistic people experience sensory sensitivities, which can lead to sensory overload. When overwhelmed by stimuli like loud noises, bright lights, or even social environments, the body and mind can react intensely. In these situations, it can be hard to differentiate between physical discomfort and emotional states. For instance, an environment that feels overstimulating may trigger frustration, but the frustration itself might be difficult to separate from the overwhelming sensory input. * Nuanced Emotions: Emotions often come in layers or blends (e.g., feeling both happy and sad at the same time). Identifying these complex emotional states can be challenging for anyone, but for those on the spectrum, this complexity can feel especially confusing. Autistic people might struggle to name nuanced emotions, such as feeling bittersweet, relieved but nervous, or nostalgic. * Social-Emotional Processing: Interpreting others’ emotions can also be difficult, which in turn complicates identifying one's own emotions. Social cues that neurotypical individuals pick up on such as facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language may be harder to interpret for those on the spectrum. This can create a disconnection between what an autistic person feels internally and how they understand the emotional dynamics around them. * Communication Barriers: Language may not always feel like an appropriate tool for expressing emotions. Many autistic people may struggle with verbalizing their feelings, not because they don’t understand them, but because words don’t seem to fully capture the intensity or quality of what they’re experiencing. Non-verbal expressions like sounds, movements, or even art can sometimes be more effective than trying to 'find the right words.' The Emotional Disconnect Because emotions and their physical manifestations may not always align clearly, autistic individuals can experience a sense of emotional disconnect. For instance, they may feel strong emotions but not show them in a way that others expect, leading to misunderstandings in social situations. Conversely, they may appear visibly upset or anxious without being fully aware of the underlying emotional cause. Strategies for Identifying Emotions * Body Awareness: Focusing on physical sensations can be a starting point for identifying emotions. For example, noticing a tightness in the chest may signal stress or anxiety, while a lightness in the body might indicate joy. By tuning into these signals, individuals can begin to make connections between what they feel physically and emotionally. * Emotional Charts or Apps: Visual aids, such as emotion charts or mood-tracking apps, can be helpful for identifying emotions. These break down emotions into basic categories, making it easier to recognize patterns and link feelings to specific experiences. * Routine Emotional Check-ins: Scheduling regular emotional check-ins throughout the day can help build emotional awareness. Asking questions like, “How do I feel right now?” and “What might have caused this feeling?” can develop a habit of reflection, helping us recognize emotions more readily over time. * Creative Expression: Art, music, or other creative outlets can be powerful ways to express emotions when words aren’t enough. Drawing how an emotion feels, playing a musical piece that reflects a mood, or even writing poetry can offer alternative avenues for emotional understanding and communication. * Seeking Support: Working with a therapist or counselor experienced in autism can also provide valuable insights. These professionals can guide us through recognizing our emotions and offering techniques and frameworks that are tailored to our specific needs and experiences. Being autistic doesn’t mean someone is emotionless or lacks empathy; rather, it means their emotional landscape might operate differently. By acknowledging these challenges and providing supportive tools and strategies, we can foster greater emotional self-awareness and communication for autistic people. With understanding, patience, and compassion, we can help create a space where identifying and expressing emotions feels safe and achievable.
earsgowhoosh profile picture
BPD, ASD and recurrent illness
by earsgowhoosh
Last post
 November 20th
...See more I am 27 and I have received two undisclosed diagnoses that I found through requesting my medical records: BPD at 24, and PDD-NOS at 9. Is PDD-NOS still an applicable diagnosis in 2024? Is it different to AS? Is BPD and ASD alongside recurrent illness common...? It feels like I have been dealt a bad, if not the worst hand.
BluePanPan profile picture
Hiii I suspect I'm autistic
by BluePanPan
Last post
 November 19th
...See more I only attract friends that are autistic diagnosed by professionals. I'm kind of scared to get diagnosed because I feel it will limit what I can do in life and I wish to pursue a lot. I just need help navigating autism.
sillyshark5555 profile picture
Toothbrushing
by sillyshark5555
Last post
 November 17th
...See more Hello! As an autistic person with depression i have a really hard time brushing my teeth. It used to be easier as a kid because my mom is very particular about oral health and would make sure me and my brother would always brush before bed. Although I did often gag and hated the texture of tooth brushes and toothpaste and still do, I wouldn’t complain. She stopped reminding us and expected us to do it on our own the more we grew up and by the time i was in middle school there were only occasional reminders around dentists appointments. As a teen and as an adult now I struggle to remember or get motivation to brush my teeth on my own. I have to use kids sized toothbrushes still because any sizes bigger irritates me too much. I don’t floss because of similar sensory issues. It’s quite frustrating when people notice that my teeth are more yellow and point it out, it makes me feel insecure and embarrassed. I do still try to brush my teeth at least once a week with water most of the time whenever I get the motivation to force myself to do it and I occasionally use teeth whiteners because my teeth are stained yellow. I drink a lot of tea so between that and not brushing as much as i should, i have yellow teeth even when i do brush from the staining. Does anyone have any tips on how to make brushing my teeth easier? Maybe a way to help with the sensory overload of it?

Autism All blue and underlined text is clickable


Welcome to Autism! This is a safe, supportive and inclusive space for you to discuss everything and anything related to Autism. Our main goal is to support everyone that stops by and make this sub community one that is inclusive! 



What are the different forum topics for Autism?

Community Space: A place for icebreakers, introductions, discussions and community check-ins.

Discussions & Resources: Want to get involved in the latest discussions? Find them here!

Living with Autism: Do you live with autism? Talk about your experiences here.


How can I help?

You can help us by simply responding to threads and sharing your story (if you're comfortable). Check-in with us, join a discussion, or start one! Alternatively, you can join us as a Forum Leader. Check out this thread for more information.


Helpful Threads

Taglist: Do you want to stay up to date with our community? Then join our tag list to be notified whenever there is a new discussion or update within the community!


Help! I still have a question!

If you need help, feel free to contact a community leader or post here, and someone will contact you!


Autism FAQ

Are there any sub-community-specific guidelines that we need to adhere to?

You can find Sub-community-specific guidelines below, which you should follow in addition to the general forum guidelines.


Is this sub community just for people who have been diagnosed with Autism?

Nope! Everyone is welcome here! Whether you have been diagnosed or not, feel free to come pull up a chair and join us! This space is inclusive and no matter your story, we would love for you to be here 


How do I navigate the sub-community?

You can find a handy guide here on how to find your way around our forum. 


I have another question…

We love questions! You can ask your questions in this thread and someone will respond to you as soon as possible.

Community Resources