Understanding Loneliness and the Impact on Mental Health in People With Autism

At AdventHealth, we believe everyone is eternally valuable and worthy of unconditional love. We’re all uniquely created with a special purpose — and endless potential to fulfill it. And we all need and deserve meaningful connections and fulfilling relationships with people who “just get it” and accept us the way we are.

No one wants to feel alone in this world, nor should they. For those on the autism spectrum, forming social connections can be especially challenging and even heartbreaking. As April is World Autism Month, we honor the plight of neurodivergent people with a focus on the problem of loneliness and how it particularly affects people living with autism.

The Loneliness Epidemic: Feeling Lonely? You’re Not Alone

Many public health experts currently refer to loneliness as an epidemic because of its negative impact on people across the globe in worrying ways. Those who are lonely are more likely to develop chronic disease. Loneliness can also result in lower productivity at work, less motivation, poor diet, not exercising and developing a social media addiction.

Loneliness in adults is associated with increased rates of anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation. One of the most concerning effects of loneliness is its connection with physical health problems, such as a higher risk of heart disease. Addressing the problem loneliness isn’t just about improving mental well-being. It’s crucial for our whole health — body, mind and spirit.

The Difference Between Being Alone and Being Lonely

Some people may feel content to spend time by themselves (or being alone), but that doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy being with others, and vice versa. That means they might spend some time alone without feeling “lonely.”

Many people on the autism spectrum report higher degrees and frequency of loneliness than the general population. This is not the same as spending time alone or wanting to be around a lot of people a lot of the time. It has more to do with the quality of their interactions when they are with people and if the interactions meet their personal needs for connection.

For example, someone with autism attending an event may not be physically alone, but they might feel ignored, ostracized or even bullied by other people who are with them. According to some studies, negative experiences from social interactions appear to influence feelings of loneliness more than low frequency of social interactions. Higher levels of being ignored relate to higher levels of loneliness.

That said, people with autism may report positive feelings about time they spent alone without reporting feeling lonely. However, if they feel ostracized by a friend or their community, or ignored in a roomful of people, they’re more likely to report feeling lonely regardless of how much or how little time they spent alone.

Build Connections by Understanding Autism Misconceptions

Misconceptions about autism are usually rooted in misunderstanding the condition, which can lead to stigmatization and exclusion of children and adults with autism. Sadly, these myths can be dehumanizing and may even lead to cruelty — including bullying and cyberbullying — often resulting in lifelong struggles with acceptance for people on the autism spectrum, which leads to loneliness.

Three common myths that may lead to social isolation in people with autism include:

• Myth #1: “Autism is a childhood disease that kids eventually outgrow.” The truth is, neurodiversity is lifelong. People with autism often try to mask the symptoms that society perceives as “different.” Start accepting people where they are, and for who they are. We never know the silent struggles and inner feelings of another soul.
• Myth #2: “People with autism are unsociable and lack empathy.” The truth is that people with autism feel deeply, possibly even more intensely, and desire social connections like everyone. The difference is that they may have trouble communicating their feelings. Practice patience.
• Myth #3: “People with autism look a certain way.” Autism does not present physically. It can be jarring to hear someone “looks,” or “doesn’t look” autistic and it creates a stereotype that boxes people in based on preconceived notions. Whether or not a person with autism can be identified through a visible or audible difference, their needs should be met with understanding and uncommon compassion.

How Loneliness Affects Mental Health in Autistic Individuals

Mental health conditions like anxiety and depression are more common among autistic people and are often connected with feelings of loneliness. The struggle to form meaningful connections can create a vicious cycle where being lonely increases mental health issues, which makes it harder to be social.

Many on the autism spectrum say they feel misunderstood or excluded socially, which can stem from communication differences or social behavior, as well as a lack of understanding and acceptance from others, causing people with autism to feel isolated.

Masking can also create a sense of loneliness where relationships may feel inauthentic, leaving the individual feeling like they can’t truly be themselves or that others don’t truly know them.

Sensory sensitivities that are common in autism, such as being overwhelmed by loud sounds, bright lights or crowds, can make it difficult for people with autism to engage in common social activities, limit opportunities for building healthy relationships even more.

Pathways to Connection for People on the Autism Spectrum

If you identify as autistic or know someone who does, know that we’re not meant to be lonely and there are possibilities for everyone. As humans, we’re created for connection and we all deserve meaningful relationships that light up our lives. Chances are high that you already light up someone’s life and may not even know it.

Here are some ways that might help with forming bonds, and things you can think about in order to help someone you love who is living with autism:

• Autism peer support with others who live with autism
• Be your true self
• Connect with like-minded people
• Engage in shared activities, hobbies and interests
• Foster a positive autistic identity
• Set personal boundaries of what you can and can’t handle

Let’s End the Loneliness Epidemic, One Person at a Time

At AdventHealth, we prioritize caring for our community, deeply understanding that connections make us stronger and that God created us to nurture interpersonal relationships. If you need help with mental health challenges, relationship building skills or you’re feeling lonely, visit us here. You deserve to feel whole, seen and honored for who you are.