How To Deal With Autism Anger In Adults: Managing Anger For Individuals With Autism

Updated November 11, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team

Autism spectrum disorder, often shortened to ASD or referred to as autism, is a neurodevelopmental condition and form of neurodiversity often associated with children. However, autism can also have significant impacts on adults. This condition can result in differences in how Autistic adults perceive and interact with the world, which can sometimes result in tension, miscommunication, and anger. Understanding anger and its potential connections with autism may help Autistic individuals or their loved ones find support. 

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Navigate the interaction between autism and anger in therapy

What is autism?

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder, meaning symptoms are present from early childhood, though autism can also not be diagnosed until adulthood for various reasons. Autism symptoms are often classified into one of two categories: social impairment and restricted and repetitive behaviors. Social impairment can involve difficulty recognizing social cues and forming close relationships, while restricted and repetitive behaviors can be exhibited as a desire to adhere to a strict routine and hyperfocus on particular areas of interest. 

Understanding the experience of autism anger and the importance of communication

Research indicates that people with autism may have a lower frustration tolerance for various reasons, potentially leading them to more frequently experience anger outbursts and have difficulties with anger management. However, there are several strategies for helping people with autism manage anger and reduce anxiety that can lead to anger. Below are potential connections to consider. 

How sensory overload can impact emotional experiences in adults with autism

Autistic people may be more sensitive to their external environment and, therefore, more likely to experience sensory overload than neurotypical people. Situations in which people without autism may not be impacted can be an intense sensory experience for Autistic people, whether they involve bright lights, crowded environments, or unexpected noises. Sensory overload can cause a heightened emotional experience, which may lead to increased frustration levels. 

The role of communication in managing autism anger

Difficulty in recognizing and appropriately communicating emotion can lead to frustration and irritation in Autistic adults. Alternative communication methods like assistive devices and visual supports may facilitate dialogue and bridge a communication gap. Developing effective strategies for Autistic individuals to communicate with those around them may prevent anger issues from escalating. 

Relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety in Autistic adults: Deep breathing, sensory calming, and more

People with autism who are quick to anger may benefit from working to develop healthier coping mechanisms for managing autism anger. These techniques can include deep breathing, sensory calming, and practicing mindfulness and other grounding strategies. 

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Deep breathing

Deep breathing exercises are an effective relaxation technique, as they can de-escalate a body’s physiological response to a stressful situation. One effective technique is known as the “four four four” method, in which a person breathes in for a count of four, holds their breath for a count of four, and then breathes out for a count of four. Belly breathing, in which a person intentionally tries to fill their stomach with air, may also be beneficial. 

Sensory calming to reduce anxiety

Because sensory overload can lead to a heightened emotional experience for adults with autism, employing sensory calming measures may reduce instances of angry outbursts. Common sensory calming techniques can involve using weighted blankets and other relaxation tools, listening to calming music, or enabling “stimming,” repetitive self-soothing motions, using fidget tools. Sensory input can also be reduced by dimming lights or removing excessive noise from an Autistic person’s immediate environment. 

Other relaxation techniques

Relaxation techniques that are effective for non-autistic adults may also work well for adults with autism. Connecting to one’s body and the present moment through mindfulness can help someone turn their focus away from whatever may be causing anger or irritation. Progressive muscle relaxation, in which a person focuses on tensing and releasing different muscle groups in succession, can also help to ground someone experiencing anger, regardless of their neurodiversity status. 

Practical tools for managing anger in Autistic adults

Autistic adults and their loved ones can take straightforward steps to reduce frustration in daily life. Learning to recognize emerging signs of irritation can be beneficial, as a person with autism can temporarily remove themselves from a situation and process their emotions before anger escalates. Creating a structured routine may reduce anxiety, which can have a marked impact on irritability and frustration. 

Mental health support for adults with autism

Living with autism in a world designed for neurotypical people can be isolating. Connecting with a mental health professional with experience working with Autistic people may be beneficial. Therapists can help people with autism more effectively recognize and process their emotional experiences, including those related to anger. 

Because of difficulties understanding social cues and the increased effort often required for social interaction among Autistic people, people with autism may be hesitant at the thought of engaging in traditional in-person therapy. Online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp may break down some of those barriers. With online therapy, a client can speak to their therapist in whatever medium they feel most comfortable, including video chat, phone, and in-app messaging options. In addition, online therapy may be more cost-effective. 

Researchers have found that online therapy can have comparable effects to traditional in-person therapy when addressing a range of mental health conditions and life concerns. One study specifically examined the impact of completing a course of online therapy on people with neurodevelopmental conditions, including autism, and found that online therapeutic intervention improved outcomes for Autistic people

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Navigate the interaction between autism and anger in therapy

Takeaway

People with autism may encounter difficulties understanding and processing their emotions and navigating social situations. These complications can sometimes lead to frustration and anger. However, there are several strategies Autistic people can employ to control their anger. Speaking to an online therapist can be beneficial in helping people with autism more effectively recognize and work through their anger. 

Learn to separate anger from behavior
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