Autism And Psychosis: Understanding The Connection And Finding Support

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and psychosis can sometimes co-occur in complex ways. Autism impacts a person throughout their life, influencing their senses and interactions. Psychosis sometimes occurs later, temporarily disrupting a person's connection to reality. While the two conditions are separate, research suggests they may have some underlying connections in common.

For some Autistic people, experiences that might bear a resemblance to psychotic symptoms aren't unusual, and this overlap can make diagnosis and treatment more challenging. These difficulties are often compounded by misunderstandings about the nature of autism and psychosis. This article will examine the relationship between these conditions and how to find appropriate support while respecting the unique nature of each diagnosis. Online therapy may offer a convenient way to seek professional insight.

Living with both autism and psychosis can be challenging

Receive support in online therapy

Understanding the spectrum of autism and vulnerability to psychosis

In general, autism exists on a wide spectrum but is often characterized by challenges with social skills and repetitive or restricted behaviors. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is usually considered a neurodevelopmental disorder, tending to impact the growth and development of the brain. Symptoms can often be seen within the first two years of a person’s life, but many people receive official diagnoses as teenagers or adults.

Autism and psychosis

Some characteristics of autism can include those listed below:

• Displaying inconsistent eye contact
• Having an unusual tone of voice
• Experiencing difficulty with conversational back-and-forth
• Displaying lasting, intense interest in specific topics
• Being particularly sensitive to sensory stimuli
• Having trouble with changes in routine

Distinguishing between autistic reactions and psychotic symptoms in a spectrum disorder

Autistic people often experience sensory overload. This can create challenges in regulating their emotions and may result in meltdowns (an intense response to overwhelm that cannot be controlled) or shutdowns (not being able to move or communicate due to extreme stress or overload).

These intense reactions are usually ways of coping, but they can be confused with symptoms of psychosis like disorganized behavior or catatonia in some cases. An accurate diagnosis can ensure individuals receive the right support and treatment.

When considering the overlap, mental health professionals generally must tread with sensitivity to carefully distinguish between the core characteristics of autism and experiences that might point toward a psychotic disorder. Getting the right diagnosis can ensure proper treatment. 

Schizophrenia spectrum disorders and autism may co-occur more frequently than their prevalence suggests. Some research suggests a potential link between the two conditions. This connection may stem from overlapping clinical and genetic risk factors or similar underlying brain mechanisms, but more research may be needed. 

Recognizing the signs of psychosis in people with autism

Psychotic disorders can manifest in various ways. Here are some potential signs that an Autistic person might be developing psychosis:

• Hallucinations: Sensory experiences with no grounding in reality, such as hearing voices or seeing people or objects others don't, with auditory hallucinations being especially common
• Delusions: Fixed, unusual beliefs that don't align with reality
• Changes in thinking: Difficulty organizing thoughts, impacting focus and communication
• Social withdrawal: Retreating further from social interactions than is typical for the individual
• Changes in affect: Uncharacteristic displays of emotion 

People who might develop psychosis could have toned-down versions of these symptoms called “attenuated symptoms.” However, because autism presents differently in everyone, and the way autism manifests can overlap with symptoms of other mental health conditions, distinguishing between signs of autism and attenuated psychotic symptoms can be challenging.

Challenges in diagnosing schizophrenia in autistic individuals

Negative symptoms (like a decline in motivation or emotionality) that are common to some neurodevelopmental disorders can mimic signs of schizophrenia or other mental health conditions, making the diagnosis in Autistic individuals more complex. That's why getting an accurate diagnosis from someone who understands both conditions can be helpful. If you or an Autistic person you know experiences any of these changes, you can reach out to a professional for help. Research shows early psychosis intervention often leads to better clinical outcomes.

Mental health treatment approaches for autistic people experiencing psychosis

Managing psychosis in Autistic individuals often calls for a team approach. Medications can help reduce symptoms, while different types of therapy may offer essential skills and strategies for coping with the challenges that can accompany autism spectrum disorder. 

Effective treatment strategies for managing autism and psychosis

To help people with autism manage psychosis, a combination of these treatment options may be effective. This approach can give them ways to handle difficult emotions and stay engaged in their interests.

• Medication: Antipsychotic medications can help manage hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking. In some cases, medications used to treat mood disorders might also be helpful. These medications must be prescribed and monitored by a doctor or psychiatrist.
• Therapy: Various therapeutic models can be effective depending on the person, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which generally focuses on changing thought patterns and behaviors, or social skills training, which can offer support in developing social connections and coping strategies.

Autism and psychosis tend to be complex, and their overlap frequently requires specialized understanding. With the right support, managing symptoms and thriving in everyday life may be achievable.

How to self-advocate

Facing both autism and psychosis can be challenging. Finding the right treatment can seem like another hurdle. You deserve to be understood and supported. Self-advocacy may allow you to speak your truth and seek the kind of support that works best for you.

Even with the best intentions, doctors and therapists can't fully step into your shoes or understand what you're experiencing, but you may have the power to bridge that gap. By advocating for your needs, you can build a support system that makes a difference.

Self-advocacy isn't always a simple feat, especially when you're already overwhelmed. Here are a few tips to help:

• Know your strengths: Everyone has unique strengths. For example, are you organized, persistent, or a good researcher? You can use these strengths to your advantage when looking for information and attending appointments.
• Build a team: You don't have to do this alone. Could a trusted friend or family member lend a hand? Having someone there to take notes, offer moral support, or debrief with you afterward can make appointments less stressful.
• Prioritize self-care: Pushing for the help you need can be tiring. Recognizing when you need to take a break can be a sign of strength.
• Educate yourself: Knowledge is power, especially when trying to understand your own needs. The Mental Health Services Administration can help you find treatment and resources in your area.

Finding your voice and building a support system that understands autism and any psychosis symptoms you may be experiencing can take time. By learning to self-advocate, you can ensure that your unique needs are met and your voice is heard.

Finding support for autism and psychosis 

Facing an additional diagnosis of psychosis on top of autism can seem like a lot to handle, but you aren't alone. Help and resources are available.

• Mental health professionals: Therapists or psychiatrists with expertise in autism and psychotic disorders can provide guidance.
• Support groups: Connecting with others navigating similar experiences, both online and in your local community, can offer support and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Advocacy organizations: Organizations focused on autism and mental health often provide a wide range of resources, information, and help to find local support.
• Family and friends: You can lean on those close to you for understanding and support. 

Managing autism and psychosis can be a journey. You may need time and self-compassion to overcome the challenges you're facing. With the right treatment, support, and understanding, you can find ways to improve your well-being and build a life you love.

Online therapy for autistic people

For Autistic people also managing psychosis, experiences like sensory overload, changes in routine, or getting ready to leave the house can create challenges in keeping to a regular therapy schedule. Online therapy can remove some of the barriers associated with in-person therapy, like transportation and sensory discomfort, potentially making it easier to consistently attend appointments. This consistency can lead to better rapport with your therapist and more progress toward your goals. However, if you’re currently experiencing acute psychotic symptoms, you may need to seek support in person.

Living with both autism and psychosis can be challenging

Receive support in online therapy

Clinical research shows that online therapy can be just as effective as traditional in-person therapy for treating individuals with psychosis. Data from these studies indicates you can get the same accurate diagnoses, effective treatment, and high-quality care while receiving more convenient mental health services.

Autism spectrum disorders, like other neurodevelopmental conditions, are normally seen as a part of neurodiversity. In general, this designation means Autistic brains are built differently, not that something's wrong with them. Diversity in the way brains are structured can provide a unique set of strengths and challenges. Every journey with autism and psychosis may be different, but yours can be filled with success.