Anxiety on the Spectrum

This source explores how sensory environments and social communication challenges can amplify anxiety. It discusses masking, sensory triggers, and the high rate of diagnosable anxiety among autistic adults.

Direct Quotes:

• “Communication differences… may fuel social anxiety.”
• “Certain environments are more stressful…”
• “Over half of autistic adults will have a diagnosable anxiety disorder…”
• “Each person’s anxiety has a different set of triggers…”

Autistica. (n.d.).
[Read the full article here]

This article focuses on how anxiety in autistic youth increases during adolescence. It highlights the importance of using multiple tools to diagnose anxiety and discusses how it may appear differently in autistic children.

Direct Quotes:

• “Anxiety and poor stress management are common concerns…”
• “The assessment… should be conducted using multiple informants…”
• “Recent studies have used better diagnostic instruments…”
• “Anxiety may have bidirectional effects…”

White, S. W., Oswald, D., Ollendick, T., & Scahill, L. (2009).
[Read the full article here]

This randomized trial shows how CBT can be adapted for autistic children—through visual aids, step-by-step skills, and involving parents. It proves CBT helps with emotion regulation and reduces avoidant behavior.

Direct Quotes:

• “CBT has been evaluated in >40 randomized studies…”
• “The core components of CBT include teaching emotion regulation skills…”
• “Given appropriate modifications… CBT may be helpful…”
• “CBT is a first line of treatment for anxiety…”

Wood, J. J., Drahota, A., Sze, K., Har, K., Chiu, A., & Langer, D. A. (2009).
[Read the full article here]

This article explains that anxiety is normal but, if untreated, can lead to depression or substance abuse. It introduces treatments like CBT and SPACE that support children and families.

Direct Quotes:

• “Anxiety is a normal human emotion that serves important functions…”
• “Untreated childhood anxiety [is linked] with mental illness in adulthood…”
• “Children with anxiety disorders commonly experience…”
• “The two most commonly used approaches are CBT and SPACE…”

Yale Medicine. (n.d.).
[Read the full article here]

This source outlines various anxiety disorders, physical symptoms like stomach issues, and causes such as trauma or genetics. It explains how anxiety often starts in childhood and can last into adulthood.

Direct Quotes:

• “Anxiety disorders involve repeated episodes of… intense anxiety…”
• “You may avoid places or situations…”
• “Common anxiety signs and symptoms include…”
• “The causes of anxiety disorders aren’t fully understood…”

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.).
[Read the full article here]

This article defines autism and explains common symptoms- trouble with social skills, communication, or behavior. It emphasizes the wide range of presentations and how early diagnosis improves outcomes.

Direct Quotes:

• “The need for services… varies among individuals…”
• “In some cases… deficits may be pronounced when amongst their peers.”
• “Social communication deficits may include…”

American Psychiatric Association. (n.d.).
[Read the full article here]

This article explores how symptoms vary and affect support needs. It notes that some kids may show early signs while others aren’t diagnosed until later—and that autistic people can lead fulfilling lives with the right support.

Direct Quotes:

• “Each child… is likely to have a unique pattern of behavior…”
• “Sometimes it can be hard to tell how severe the condition is.”
• “Children with autism… show fewer disturbances in behavior.”
• “Children… usually show signs of delayed development before they’re 3…”

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.).
[Read the full article here]

The guide includes research summaries, explanations of masking, descriptions of anxiety symptoms, reasons why therapies like CBT are effective, real-life examples from school and home, and tips for both autistic and neurotypical individuals to promote support and understanding.

The guide includes research summaries, explanations of masking, descriptions of anxiety symptoms, reasons why therapies like CBT are effective, real-life examples from school and home, and tips for both autistic and neurotypical individuals to promote support and understanding.

Yes, it provides a practical tool for professionals to recognize anxiety in autistic individuals, avoid misunderstandings, and respond effectively with actionable strategies and real-world context.

Yes, the guide is designed for sharing through printing, emailing, or posting on social media to raise awareness and foster positive change.

Yes, it combines plain-language summaries of studies from reputable sources with relatable examples from school, home, and social settings, applicable across age groups.

The guide explains how anxiety manifests in autistic individuals, details masking and its connection to anxiety, and provides practical ways to offer meaningful support, enhancing confidence for those helping someone they care about.

The guide spans approximately 15 pages, concise yet insightful. Each section is self-contained, allowing readers to focus on sections relevant to their needs.