The Impact of ASD on Self-Perception and Personality: How It Leads to Depression and Anxiety

Introduction

Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can profoundly impact an individual's self-perception and personality. Many autistics are raised to believe they should act like allistics (non-autistic people), which can severely damage their sense of self. Even when knowledge of their own differences is gained, the stark reality of adapting to a neurotypical (neurologically typical) world can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. This article delves into these issues, exploring the effects of self-perception, social masking, and how societal attitudes contribute to these conditions.

Challenges in Self-Perception

Autistics often face a significant challenge in understanding their own identity and place in the world. Typically, they perceive the world with themselves at the center, not in a selfish way, but as a genuine and real part of the environment that must be explored. However, this natural view of the world can be deeply hurt when faced with the stigma and judgment of neurotypicals (allistics).

A key issue is that self-perception is often shaped negatively due to societal pressures to conform. Even those who are unaware of their autism can unknowingly begin to mask or suppress natural traits from a very young age, which can lead to continual inner conflict and suffering.

Leading to Anxiety: Self-Regulation and Social Masking

Anxiety in autistics often results from the suppression of natural self-regulatory behaviors, known as stimming (self-stimulatory behaviors). Stimming helps individuals to manage their emotions and sensory experiences, but societal pressures often lead to the suppression of these behaviors, even in those who do not know they are autistic. This suppression can exacerbate anxiety, as the individual is forced to navigate the outside world without the coping mechanisms that feel natural to them.

In primary school, children who are unaware of their autism may begin to internalize the need to conform, mirroring and mimicking neurotypical behavior as a survival mechanism. This can be a response to the trauma of societal biases and bullying. The belief that one must hide their true nature, even if they are unaware of it, can be deeply detrimental to mental health.

Depression and CPTSD

Depression is frequently associated with the constant struggle to function in a neurotypical world, especially when one is not fully aware of their own differences. The term CPTSD (Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is often used to describe the chronic stress and trauma faced by individuals with ASD in a neurotypical society. Even with a diagnosis, the awareness that one is different and how others perceive them can lead to a persistent sense of powerlessness and worthlessness, contributing to depression.

Consequences of Social Masking and Support

The long-term effects of social masking can be severe. Continued suppression of true self can lead to a deep dissatisfaction and a sense of non-belonging. Research and personal experiences show that, regardless of the diagnosis, the social and psychological challenges of navigating a neurotypical world are significant. The knowledge that one is an autistic in a world that does not fully understand or accept them can be overwhelming.

A diagnosis can be both a source of relief and a source of anxiety. For many, knowing they are an autistic (zebra) rather than a defective horse (allistic) can be a profound and positive realization. However, the journey to acceptance and understanding in a neurotypical world is complex. Even with the knowledge of being different, the challenges of managing in a neurotypical environment can feel like an ongoing struggle. The anxiety and depression may not be fully alleviated, but managing these conditions can bring a sense of peace and acceptance.

Conclusion

Autism can deeply impact an individual's self-perception and personality, leading to significant challenges such as anxiety and depression. These challenges stem not simply from the inherent traits of autism, but from the societal pressures to conform and the resulting inner turmoil. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including support from neurological and mental health professionals, understanding from society, and personal resilience.