Asperger syndrome typically does not experience the same language and cognitive delays or other learning disabilities normally associated with autism. It is worth remembering however that no two people with Asperger syndrome are alike. Symptoms during childhood
Symptoms of Asperger syndrome tend to become first apparent when a child starts school and begins to interact with other children. Childr
en with Asperger syndrome may:
Have trouble detecting social cues and body language
Have difficulty with maintaining conversations and knowing when it is their turn to speak
Appear to lack empathy for other people and their feelings. Some people can appear to be introverted and almost aloof
Dislike changes in routines
Employ a formal style of speaking using complex words or phrases despite not fully understanding their meaning
Be unable to recognise subtle differences in speech tone, pitch, and accent that alter the meaning of others’ speech
Have difficulty when playing games which require the use of imagination
Have limited range of interests which he or she may be very knowledgeable about
Have poor handwriting and late development in motor skills such as catching a ball or using a knife and fork
Have heightened sensitivity and become overstimulated by loud noises, lights, or strong tastes or textures
Just because your child exhibits one or two of these symptoms however does not mean that they have Asperger syndrome. What are the three main symptoms of Asperger s? There are three main difficulties often shared by those with a historic diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome. This could include knowing how to use language appropriately in social situations, trouble moderating their non-verbal ways of communication, or difficulty interpreting non-verbal cues from other people. Difficulty with interaction. This could include wanting to be social but being unsure how to make or maintain friendships or relationships. Difficulty with social imagination. This could include trouble predicting, understanding, or interpreting others’ thoughts, feelings, or actions. This can make it difficult for them to predict what will happen next, or to picture alternative outcomes to a situation other than what they had anticipated in their mind. Developing an intense or obsessive interest around a single or several favoured subjects (often referred to as a ‘special interest’) which may persist over time or change, having a strong preference for structure or keeping things in order, or difficulty deviating from routine can also be difficult for some who have Asperger’s syndrome. What causes Asperger’s syndrome? The causes of ASD and Asperger’s are unknown. Experts think that genetics may play a role, however, they do know that ASD is not the result of a child’s upbringing, poor parenting or vaccinations. While boys and men are more likely to receive a diagnosis of ASD, research suggests that autistic girls and women may be more prevalent than previously thought, but may struggle to receive the right diagnosis. Getting a diagnosis of Asperger's or autism
As Asperger’s syndrome affects people in different ways, it can be hard to recognise. Unlike some on the autistic spectrum who are diagnosed during early childhood, those with Asperger s may not be diagnosed until later in childhood or adulthood. It’s worth noting that people of any age can be diagnosed as on the spectrum. Diagnosis often involves a team. This may include a speech and language therapist, a doctor, and a psychologist/psychiatrist. In order for someone to receive a diagnosis, they will be assessed as having ongoing difficulties with social interaction, and repetitive (and restrictive) behaviour patterns that have existed since early childhood that impair everyday life. Those seeking a diagnosis now are more likely to be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or autism spectrum condition (ASC). Asperger's syndrome was removed from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-5, in 2013 (the DSM is often referred to as the 'psychiatrists' bible' in the US). Those who have already received a diagnosis of Asperger's syndrome, however, will retain it unless seeking a second private re-assessment. For some, receiving a formal diagnosis of autism feels unhelpful, for others, however, it can be beneficial. Understanding what it means to be autistic can help autistic individuals and their loved ones. It also opens the door to further support. Understanding Asperger’s helped me to realise what I needed to bring to the relationship with my neurotypical wife. Our relationship settled into a much better place and we became more supportive and consistent as a couple and as parents. The typical hallmarks of Asperger’s syndrome include:
Difficulties with social interactions (such as nonverbal social cues, facial expressions, body language, or difficulty predicting or interpreting others' thoughts, feelings, or actions). Highly-focused interests (also referred to as ‘special interests’, which may seem like intense obsessions to some). Repetitive behaviours or trouble with changes to routine (this can lead to becoming upset if routines are interrupted). Sensory sensitivity (such as to lights, sounds, or textures). Difficulty managing emotions (which may lead to outbursts).
Solution-focused brief therapy
Instead of focusing on problem-solving, this type of therapy looks at building solutions. Solution-focused brief therapy helps you to look at the future, focusing on using your strengths to achieve your goals. Offering practical applications, solution-focused brief therapy tends to take place over a limited period of time but has long-lasting effects. Psychoanalytic approach
This approach looks into your past and unconscious mind. Aiming to improve your self-awareness and help you better understand the power you have in your relationships, the psychoanalytical approach, can be more challenging for some people on the spectrum. Watch John Clark describe his experience of Asperger's syndrome, clinical depression and generalised anxiety disorder (from the National Autistic Society). Living with Asperger’s syndrome
For some, living with symptoms of Asperger’s is an overwhelming experience. You may have difficulty understanding and relating to others, feel different, or like others don’t understand you. Anxiety and autistic burnout can also be common experiences. An invisible disability, others may not be aware that you are autistic, which can place additional stress on you if you socially mask. Below are examples of what some autistic individuals experience. The most interesting people you’ll find are ones that don’t fit into your average cardboard box. They’ll make what they need, they’ll make their own boxes.
- Dr Temple Grandin
Difficulty with social interactions
Autistic people may have trouble understanding sarcasm, reading social cues, or interpreting language. While people diagnosed with Asperger’s typically have good language skills, they may still have difficulty with these, or may not understand what is expected of them within a conversation – or to express themselves. Special interests
Many people have hobbies and interests, but autistic people may have one or two interests they are incredibly dedicated to. This can lead to them taking a lot of time studying or interacting with said interest, and may find spending time on that interest to be key to feeling happy and fulfilled. Repetitive behaviours
Having a regular routine can offer a sense of security for those on the spectrum, helping them feel safe when otherwise overwhelmed or anxious. This can lead to them feeling reluctant to changes in their routine. Sensory sensitivity
Sensory sensitivity is when you experience an over, or under, sensitivity to smells, sounds, light, temperature or even taste. For example, loud noises may cause physical pain and even anxiety. Alternatively, someone diagnosed with Asperger’s may be especially curious about light and colour. Mental health and Asperger’s syndrome
Those on the autistic spectrum can be more likely to experience mental health concerns than those not on the spectrum. The following have been found to be more prominent:
Anxiety
An estimated 40% of autistic people experience anxiety symptoms, compared to 15% of neurotypical people. Anxiety disorders can lead to fears and phobias of certain situations, creating a vicious cycle. Without treatment, this can lead to depression. Talking therapies can help reduce symptoms and break unhealthy thought patterns. Depression
While all of us can feel sad or down from time to time, if low moods last a long time and get in the way of day-to-day tasks, this can be a sign of depression. Those on the spectrum are just as likely as anyone else to develop this. It can be hard for autistic people to vocalise how they’re feeling. They may be more worried about asking for help than usual. There is help available however and it can be useful to speak to someone who understands autism and the challenges it can bring. Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) has been found to be more common in those on the spectrum. The condition involves recurring and intrusive thoughts as well as compulsions to carry out certain behaviours. As people diagnosed as Asperger’s can display repetitive behaviours, OCD can be overlooked. The two are, however, very different. Speaking to your doctor about your concerns is a great first step to an accurate diagnosis. There are several different treatment options to help with OCD including medication and talk therapy. What should I be looking for in a counsellor or psychotherapist? There are currently no laws in place stipulating what training and qualifications a counsellor must have to help someone on the spectrum. However, NICE has developed a set of guidelines that provide advice about the recommended approaches. In terms of psychological support, NICE recommend cognitive behavioural therapy and/or behavioural therapy. To help manage symptoms such as anxiety and/or repetitive thoughts, medication may also be offered. The guidelines also list various therapies and treatments that should not be offered, including chelation therapy. Counsellors supporting autistic people may have to adjust the way they work. For example, including more visual information. Therefore, it is advised that you seek a professional who has specific training and experience in working with people on the autistic spectrum. Diagnosis of Asperger syndrome
Diagnosis of Asperger syndrome can be difficult and requires a combination of the above symptoms and significant trouble with social situations. If you suspect you child has the condition, the first step is to visit a GP, who will refer your child to a paediatrician or psychologist. Research has shown that our unconscious mind makes 90% of our decisions and that behaviours are established at a very young age. The unconscious mind’s primary function is to protect us. However, behaviours learned at a young age are not always helpful in dealing with issues that we face as adults. Although our conscious mind knows how to deal with situations rationally, the unconscious mind which is the driving force, can create a raft of limiting and unhelpful behaviours because of early programming. How do people with Asperger syndrome see the world? Some people with Asperger syndrome say the world feels overwhelming and this can cause them considerable anxiety. In particular, understanding and relating to other people, and taking part in everyday family, school, work and social life, can be harder. Other people appear to know, intuitively, how to communicate and interact with each other, yet can also struggle to build rapport with people with Asperger syndrome. People with Asperger syndrome may wonder why they are 'different' and feel their social differences mean people don’t understand them. Autistic people, including those with Asperger syndrome, often do not 'look' disabled. Some parents of autistic children say that other people simply think their child is naughty, while adults find that they are misunderstood. Hypnosis can be used to purposely alter symptoms through physical relaxation and causing a heightened state of awareness. This will narrow and intensify a focus of concentration and perception while diminishing awareness of peripheral stimuli. Those with AS can find everyday life difficult as they have an overload of senses which others can ‘blank out’, concentrating on only what is immediately important. They often cannot determine what should take priority which causes the ongoing stress and anxiety to manifest. Anxiety builds up due to external or internal sensory stimuli in the brain which can lead to temper outbursts, irritability, pacing, agitation etc. which then creates tremendous stress. This behaviour can be seen as unacceptable and lead to alienation and enforced solitary preoccupation. By using hypnosis in this way it will also have a beneficial impact on other areas in their lives. It can increase confidence, raise self-esteem, aid insomnia, banish feelings of low self-worth and deal with depression. This list is by no means exhaustive as each individual will present with their own unique set of challenges which will be dealt with on an individual basis. Life changes, and so can you! Call Stuart: +44 7825 599340
