ANXIETY

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Is anxiety a part of autism?

I went in for a job interview 2day and lost my cool on the inside, my heart was racing alot during the wait and interview, needless 2 say the lack of inflection in my voice probably cost me the job, the job interviewer guy had so much pizzaz in the sound of his voice I just wanted to give up, I could see the difference between us.

I have crippling anxiety. It sucks.

Anxiety is part of job interviews. Yes, some interviewers are looking for somebody peppy. But you are more likely to land a job that fits you by being yourself. Not that we're being picky these days. But be gentle with yourself. You did your best, who could ask for more? Continue applying for anything and everything. Even applying for something out of your own orbit is a bit of a learning experience. Also - you might land that job.

You know all the counter-anxiety strategies? Belly-breathing, mantra, prayer, picturing a good place or favourite animal, etc. I once took Tinkerbell to an interview with me - we got the job.

"As a psychotherapist, I have spent the last 15 years serving adults on the autism spectrum, mostly people diagnosed with Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism. Anxiety is at the core of the problems presented by almost every client I have served." - Dr. Valerie Gaus

hmm intresting

I disagree; I don't think it's a core symptom of autistics; I think it's a core symptom of autistics who seek treatment.

However, I'd agree that we're more vulnerable to anxiety disorders. Executive dysfunction and inability to adjust quickly to changes does tend to set one up for anxiety. Being part of a minority is a related problem that can often lead to social anxiety because of being exposed to prejudice.

Wasn't that what Dr. Gaus said???

rephrase: of all the people so bothered by symptoms that they seek me out, nearly all of them are troubled most by anxiety.




And, for those with sensory issues, being bombarded so often with noise, glaring light, horrific smells, human proximity, etc. And for those trying to function at a level beyond what their nervous system can sustain, there is a lot of anxiety in trying to live up to cultural expectations outside one's grasp.

Yeah. Still an important distinction though.

I have had anxiety for as long as I can remember. It really got bad just before my son was born; in fact, I ended up having to be taken to the hospital because I thought I was having a heart attack. Since then I have been on just about ever antidepressant drug that helps with anxiety and some sort of a benzodiazepine.

I would argue that the anxiety is a byproduct of an aspie just trying to make it in the everyday world with NTs. If I am at home or somewhere I feel safe, my anxiety is less. Take me to work, a mall, or busy store and I have a really hard time with anxiety.

Ultimately, anxiety is just part of the aspie package, some feel it more that others, but it seems to be present with most of us.

-Johnathan

When filling out forms and being asked what I wanted an appointment with my now-former psychiatrist for, I answered "anxiety."

I find being very well prepared and knowing pretty much what I'm going to have to say really helps with interviews.


I get anxiety if I don't know how someone going to respond. (this is like a brick wall).
Worrying anxiety, if something has happened.
Anxiety about something happening in a situation, like going out maybe.
Rebound anxiety, even if nothing has happened, that something may have because of something I've done.
General anxiety, like a background 'pain'
Remembered anxiety. If something relates to something that's caused fear.
not knowing what to do next, anxiety.
Abrupt changes to things(by others) that have been planned (by myself) ,anxiety. [so putting the coffee in a different cupboard for instance]
and probably a bit more anxiety.

So yeh, anxiety.
but mostly I ignore it.

I don't remember having any anxiety until I was about 6 years old though.

Really it's not my anxiety it's other people being a pain. It builds up over time.

The bolded part is the biggest cause of my anxiety.