OpenHealth Q&A

Identifying Possible Autism Characteristics

Here’s a compilation of behaviors I suspect might be linked to autism: - I often flap my hands when I'm excited, deep in thought, or if my hands feel strange. - Making lists is a comfort for me, particularly during moments of boredom. - I struggle with the sensation of my own skin touching other skin. - Although I dislike physical contact, I yearn for it but find it hard to initiate; if I have a romantic partner, they are the sole person allowed to touch me. - I tend to snap or tap my fingers when thinking. - I often interpret things literally. - I sometimes overlook social nuances such as jokes or subtle hints. - I have a habit of biting items that lack any scent. - Occasionally, I walk on my toes either to be more silent or simply because it feels pleasant. - While loud noises can be painful, I paradoxically seek out loud music. - I instinctively sniff objects. - Occasionally I find socks unpleasant and need to adjust their tightness to feel comfortable. - I crack my fingers when I'm feeling uneasy. - To calm myself, I often play with my hair. - I require music to sleep, as quiet environments are challenging for me. - I experience significant discomfort if anyone touches my back. - I believe my stuffed animals have emotions and feel guilty if I cuddle just one, as it feels unfair to the others. - I enjoy placing small items under my fingernails due to the tactile sensation, or because my nails themselves feel bothersome. - At times, articulating my wants and needs proves difficult. - I have a strong aversion to change, which frequently triggers PTSD nightmares. - I develop attachments to my belongings and hesitate to discard items I perceive as useless. - I cannot eat meat that has fat or a fatty texture. - Back in sixth grade, I would tidy my desk as a method of self-soothing during stressful periods. - I struggle with eye contact; when someone meets my gaze, I find it challenging, but I can stare at them when they look away. - I rub my feet together for comfort, especially before bed. - I peel the skin on my lips and fingers when I'm anxious or bored. - Wearing tight clothing can be uncomfortable for me, though at times I seek it out. - Certain fabrics can feel overwhelmingly unpleasant, leading to heightened agitation. - I often become acutely aware of my eyes, which feel uncomfortable and hard to ignore. - Restlessness in my legs prevents me from finding a comfy position. - Texting creates anxiety for me, and I struggle with how to respond to messages. - I dislike having my hair touch my skin. - I can often predict movie outcomes since they tend to follow recognizable patterns. - If I feel bumps on my skin, I have a compulsion to pick at them. - Some sounds reveal patterns that fascinate me, and I focus on those. - The things I create must adhere to specific patterns, too. - When indulging in music or reading, it can feel like only a short time has passed, but the reality is often much longer. If these sound familiar, could they hint at autism? I was diagnosed with ADHD at age thirteen, a process that took longer due to being female. Now, at twenty-one, I wonder if these traits may align with autism as well.

Answers (1)

2/8/2026, 9:40:33 PM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you are exploring whether certain behaviors and sensations could be indicative of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), especially considering your existing diagnosis of ADHD. Many of the traits you've mentioned can indeed be associated with autism, but understanding them in the context of your experience is critical.

Explanation

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that can manifest through various behaviors and sensory preferences. Common characteristics include difficulties with social communication, repeated behaviors, and unique sensory experiences. Your observations, such as hand-flapping when excited, sensitivity to certain fabrics, and challenges with social nuances, suggest traits associated with autism.

However, an accurate diagnosis can only be made by a qualified healthcare professional who specializes in neurodevelopmental disorders. Given your ADHD diagnosis and the overlap of symptoms, it's worth exploring this further if you feel these traits align with your experiences.

Next Steps

1. Self-Awareness: Keep a detailed record of your behaviors and feelings, as you’ve already started to do. This can help you articulate your experiences if you choose to seek a formal evaluation.

2. Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with autism traits and presentations, especially in adults and in females, since they may present differently than in males.

3. Seek Professional Insight: If you continue to feel that these traits could indicate autism, consider reaching out to a psychologist or psychiatrist who specializes in ASD assessments. They can guide you through an evaluation.

4. Connect with Support Groups: Look for communities or support groups for individuals with autism or ADHD. Hearing from others with similar experiences can provide insight and validation.

5. Practice Self-Care: Given your sensitivities and preferences, find comforting routines or strategies that help you manage overwhelming situations, such as creating a sensory-friendly space at home.

6. Communicate Your Feelings: If you have close friends or family, discuss your thoughts about autism and how they relate to your experiences. Support systems can be invaluable during this journey.

It’s admirable that you’re seeking understanding of yourself, and I encourage you to explore these traits further at your own pace. Remember, self-acceptance is a key part of this process. Let me know if you have any more questions or need further assistance!