There’s a way to promote a calmer, more confident approach to life for kids stuck at the intersection of autism and anxiety. In all of my programs,I help parents navigate and find effective strategies to alleviate their child's stress and distress by calming the nervous system.
There are natural solutions that can lessen anxiety in autistic children or any other brain patterning that is associated with anxiety.
Autism spectrum social anxiety can manifest in various ways, from separation anxiety in autism to distinct anxiety, on top of the usual autism symptoms like panic attacks or fear of bugs. It's crucial to recognize these signs to learn how to reduce anxiety in an autistic child and tailor interventions accordingly.
How to Recognize Autism and Anxiety in Children
Recognizing anxiety in autistic children requires keen observation and an understanding of how it may manifest differently within the context of autism spectrum social anxiety. While some signs may overlap with typical anxiety symptoms, others may be more subtle or unique to individuals on the spectrum.
1. Behavioral Changes
Watch for sudden changes in behavior, such as increased agitation, restlessness, or withdrawal. Autistic children experiencing anxiety may exhibit heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli, leading to sensory overload or meltdowns.
2. Communication Challenges
Communication difficulties can mask underlying anxiety symptoms in autistic children. They may struggle to express their emotions verbally, resorting to nonverbal cues like increased stimming, repetitive behaviors, or avoiding eye contact.
3. Routine Disruptions
Autistic children often thrive on routine and predictability. Any disruptions to their established routines, such as changes in schedule or environment, may trigger anxiety. Pay attention to how they respond to transitions or unfamiliar situations.
4. Physical Symptoms
Anxiety in autistic children can manifest in physical symptoms like stomachaches, headaches, or muscle tension. These somatic complaints may be their way of expressing distress when verbalizing emotions proves challenging.
5. Social Withdrawal
While some autistic children may crave social interaction, others may find it overwhelming. Watch for signs of social withdrawal or avoidance, especially in unfamiliar social settings or when faced with new social demands.
6. Repetitive Questions or Concerns
Autistic children may fixate on specific worries or fears, seeking reassurance or asking repetitive questions to alleviate their anxiety. These obsessive thoughts or rituals can serve as coping mechanisms but may also indicate underlying distress.
7. Emotional Dysregulation
Difficulty regulating emotions is common in autism, but heightened anxiety can exacerbate emotional dysregulation. Look for signs of intense fear, panic, or emotional outbursts that seem disproportionate to the situation.
One study looked at how kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) handle their emotions compared to kids without ASD. They found that kids with ASD struggle more with controlling their emotions and have more severe symptoms overall. They also found that emotional issues are linked to all the main features of ASD, like social difficulties and repetitive behaviors (Samson et al., 2013).
8. Sleep Disturbances
Anxiety often disrupts sleep patterns, leading to difficulty falling asleep, frequent nighttime awakenings, or nightmares. Monitor your child's sleep habits and consider how changes in anxiety levels may affect their restorative sleep.
How to Reduce Anxiety in Autistic Child
Introducing effective strategies to address anxiety in autistic children is crucial for promoting their emotional well-being and enhancing their quality of life. Implementing tailored interventions and providing a supportive environment allows parents to empower their children to manage anxiety more effectively. Here are some practical approaches to help alleviate stress and anxiety in autistic children and promote a sense of calm and confidence in their daily lives.
1. Create a Supportive Environment
Establishing a safe space at home is vital. Minimize triggers for anxiety, maintain a predictable routine, and provide sensory-friendly tools like weighted blankets or fidget toys to help regulate emotions.
2. Encourage Communication
Communication barriers can exacerbate anxiety in autistic children. Foster open dialogue through visual aids, social stories, or AAC devices, allowing them to express their feelings and needs effectively.
3. Embrace Calming Techniques
Explore mental or behavioral acts that reduce anxiety, such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness techniques. Incorporating these practices into daily routines can promote relaxation and emotional well-being.
The use of PEMF devices, like CALM PEMF, can also help with anxiety. One study aimed to investigate the effects of pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) stimulation on chronic pain and anxiety.
Ten participants underwent twelve PEMF sessions, twice weekly, lasting twenty minutes each. The study observed improvements in pain levels, anxiety, and overall function, with most participants reporting temporary relief or decreased pain frequency (Borges et al., 2019).
While individual outcomes varied, aggregate data demonstrated a reduction in pain and anxiety scores. The findings suggest that PEMF therapy could be beneficial for individuals with chronic pain and anxiety, warranting further investigation with increased frequency or session times.
4. Harness the Power of Visual Aids
Utilize calming visuals or “pictures that relieve anxiety” to aid in relaxation. Nature scenes, soothing colors, or comforting images can be powerful tools to ease stress and promote a sense of tranquility.
5. Promote Social Skills and Confidence
Encourage social interaction through structured activities or peer support groups tailored to the child's interests and abilities. Building social skills and self-esteem can mitigate social anxiety and autism challenges and foster a more confident outlook.
6. Seek Professional Guidance
While natural solutions are valuable, don't hesitate to consult with professionals specializing in autism and anxiety. They can offer personalized strategies, recommend appropriate therapies, or discuss calming therapies for autistic children when necessary.
Understanding the unique needs of autistic children and implementing holistic approaches help parents reduce anxiety while nurturing their child's well-being. As a parent embarking on this journey, remember that small steps can lead to significant strides. Stay resilient, stay compassionate, and above all, believe in the boundless potential of your child to thrive.
If you want to know more about how to reduce anxiety in autistic child, download the Natural Anxiety Relief Kit. Discover the game-changing roadmap and empower your child to rise above anxiety and flourish without relying on medication.
Can autism cause anxiety?
Yes. Autism and anxiety often coexist, with the unique challenges of autism spectrum social anxiety contributing to heightened anxiety levels in autistic individuals.
How can I support my autistic child during social interactions?
Encourage social skills development through structured activities, peer support groups, or social stories tailored to your child's interests and abilities.
Is anxiety a common symptom of autism spectrum disorder?
Yes, anxiety is prevalent in individuals with autism spectrum disorder, often manifesting as social anxiety, separation anxiety, or sensory-related anxieties.
What are some triggers for anxiety in autistic children?
Triggers can vary widely, but changes in routine, sensory overload, social situations, or unfamiliar environments are common triggers for anxiety in autistic children.
Are there specific calming techniques that work well for autistic children?
Yes, techniques like deep pressure therapy, progressive muscle relaxation, or incorporating calming visuals have shown to be effective in reducing anxiety in autistic children.
How can I help my autistic child cope with panic attacks?
Provide reassurance, implement grounding techniques, and create a safe, predictable environment to help your child manage panic attacks effectively.
Are there any natural supplements or medications that can help with anxiety in autistic children?
While some parents may explore natural supplements like melatonin or herbal remedies, consulting with healthcare professionals before introducing new supplements or medications is essential.
What role does routine play in managing anxiety in autistic children?
Routine provides predictability and stability, which can help reduce anxiety in autistic children by minimizing unexpected changes or disruptions.
How can I address anxiety-related sleep disturbances in my autistic child?
Establish a calming bedtime routine, create a sleep-friendly environment, and consider incorporating relaxation techniques to help alleviate anxiety-related sleep disturbances.
What strategies can I use to help my autistic child manage sensory-related anxieties?
Offer sensory-friendly tools like noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets, or sensory bins to help your child regulate sensory input and reduce anxiety.
Are there any specific strategies for managing anxiety in high-functioning autistic children?
High-functioning autistic children may benefit from cognitive-behavioral strategy, social skills training, or exposure therapy to manage anxiety effectively.
How can I support my autistic child during periods of transition or change?
Prepare your child in advance, use visual schedules or social stories to explain upcoming changes, and provide consistent support and reassurance during transitions.
What should I do if my autistic child is afraid of specific stimuli, such as water or bugs?
Gradual exposure therapy, desensitization techniques, and incorporating positive experiences with the feared stimuli can help your child overcome specific fears and anxieties.
Dr. Roseann is a mental health expert in Anxiety who frequently is in the media:
- Reconditioned with Laurie Vaknine (Podcast) Managing Anxiety & Mental Health in Children.
- Sparking Wholeness (Audio) Parenting Anxious Kids.
- The Happy Student (Podcast) Stress and Anxiety 101.
Always remember… “Calm Brain, Happy Family™”
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to give health advice and it is recommended to consult with a physician before beginning any new wellness regime. *The effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment vary by patient and condition. Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, LLC does not guarantee certain results.
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Dr. Roseann is a Children’s Mental Health Expert and Licensed Therapist who has been featured in/on hundreds of media outlets including The Mel Robbins Show, CBS, NBC, PIX11 NYC, Today, FORBES, CNN, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Business Insider, Women’s Day, Healthline, CNET, Parade Magazine and PARENTS. FORBES called her, “A thought leader in children’s mental health.”
She coined the terms, “Re-entry panic syndrome” and “eco-anxiety” and is a frequent contributor to media on mental health.
Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge has three decades of experience in working with children, teens and their families with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, concussion, dyslexia and learning disability, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), depression and mood disorder, Lyme Disease, and PANS/PANDAS using science-backed natural mental health solutions such as supplements, magnesium, nutrition, QEEG Brain maps, neurofeedback, PEMF, psychotherapy and other non-medication approaches.
She is the author of three bestselling books, It’s Gonna Be OK!: Proven Ways to Improve Your Child's Mental Health, The Teletherapy Toolkit, and Brain Under Attack. Dr. Roseann is known for offering a message of hope through science-endorsed methods that promote a calm brain.
Her trademarked BrainBehaviorResetⓇ Program and It’s Gonna be OK!Ⓡ Podcast has been a cornerstone for thousands of parents facing mental health, behavioral or neurodevelopmental challenges.
She is the founder and director of The Global Institute of Children’s Mental Health, Neurotastic™Brain Formulas and Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, LLC. Dr. Roseann is a Board Certified Neurofeedback (BCN) Practitioner, a Board Member of the Northeast Region Biofeedback Society (NRBS), Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP) and an Amen Clinic Certified Brain Health Coach. She is also a member of The International Lyme Disease and Associated Disease Society (ILADS), The American Psychological Association (APA), Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), International OCD Foundation (IOCDF).
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