British Association for Counseling and Psychotherapy
The Psychologist The clinical psychologist may be initially involved in the diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome and associated disorders. Common secondary diagnoses include ADHD, depression, generalized anxiety, or more specific anxiety disorders such as OCD or panic attacks.
Communication symptoms Social difficulties. People with AS may struggle with social interactions. Speech difficulties. It’s not unusual for adults with AS to have “stiff” (sometimes referred to as “robotic”) or repetitive speech. Exceptional verbal skills. Below-average nonverbal skills. Lack of eye contact.
Many of the treatments that are recommended for Asperger’s involve fostering improved behavioral, social, and communication skills. However, medications, speech therapy , and occupational therapy may also be used. It’s important to remember that not all treatments for Asperger’s are supported by scientific evidence.
4 Ways to Cope When Your Partner Has Asperger’s Syndrome Communicate your needs directly. Do this either verbally or in writing and without emotion. Set clear rules about parenting. Consider therapy. Seek support .
Actors with Asperger’s Dan Aykroyd – Actor. Corey Burton – Voice Actor. Charlie Chaplan – Actor (rumored) Lizzy Clark – Actress. Paddy Considine – Actor. Stephen Fry – Actor. Crispin Glover – Actor (rumored) Daryl Hannah – Actress.
Asperger’s Syndrome Autism is a developmental brain disorder that includes many different symptoms, with a broad range of severity. People with the disorder are said to fall somewhere along the “autism spectrum.” Some are severely disabled, but others may only exhibit mild symptoms.
In addition to difficulties with understanding emotions, individuals with ASDs may become angry quickly and may have difficulty calming themselves effectively. They often need to be taught skills to cope with an increase in irritability once they have been able to identify these emotions.
displays unusual nonverbal communication, such as lack of eye contact, few facial expressions, or awkward body postures and gestures. does not empathize with or seems insensitive to others’ feelings and has a hard time “reading” other people or may have difficulty understanding humor.
Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Adults Difficulty interpreting what others are thinking or feeling. Trouble interpreting facial expressions, body language, or social cues. Difficulty regulating emotion. Trouble keeping up a conversation.
Offer the aspie a very warm welcome and allow them to speak their mind or to be quiet altogether. This strategy helps the aspie to acclimate to their surroundings in all ways. Have fun while allowing the aspie as much space, time, and opportunity for something as he or she desires.
A recent study in Sweden showed the average age of death for a person with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is 54 years, compared with 70 for matched controls.
A meltdown is where a person with autism or Asperger’s temporarily loses control because of emotional responses to environmental factors. They aren’t usually caused by one specific thing. Triggers build up until the person becomes so overwhelmed that they can’t take in any more information.
5 things to NEVER say to someone with Autism: “Don’t worry, everyone’s a little Autistic.” No . “ You must be like Rainman or something.” Here we go again… not everyone on the spectrum is a genius. “Do you take medication for that?” This breaks my heart every time I hear it. “I have social issues too. “ You seem so normal!
Most Aspies : are able to easily forgive others. are conscientious, reliable, and honest. are enthusiastic and have a propensity for obsessive research, thus developing a broad and deep base of knowledge in subjects of interest.
Asperger Tips: Think positive, don’t take immediate offence at misaligned words, body language or tone of voice. Check and ask what is meant by the other person in order to maintain clear communication. Don’t think the worst, don’t mistake frustration or anxiety in others for them being angry with you.