Being Both Highly Sensitive and Autistic: The Sensitive Autistic Neurotype

Neurotype refers to classes of nervous systems, such as the neurodivergent “differently wired brains” many of us have, with ADHD, autism, and other differences.

You can get a sense of whether you are probably autistic, for example, from hearing and reading about their experiences of many autistic people, and by taking an online test - although there are likely many unreliable versions.

Given the source, one test that should be credible is the Autism Test by Psychology Today. [My score: 64-83/100 - ‘Several signs of autism.’]

Researchers and therapists refer to the Sensitive Autistic Neurotype, including Julie Bjelland, LMFT, who identifies as both Highly Sensitive and Autistic.

She explores this in a long guide post - Here is an excerpt:

Sensitive autistic individuals often exhibit unique traits that challenge outdated stereotypes.

This guide is designed to help individuals, practitioners, and allies better understand these traits, particularly for those discovering their neurodivergence as adults.

As a psychotherapist specializing in high sensitivity and adult-discovered autism, and as a neurodivergent individual, I’ve witnessed (and experienced) the transformative power of self-understanding.

Recognizing this sensitive autistic phenotype offers hope, validation, and empowerment to those who have long felt “different” or misunderstood.

For those discovering their autism later in life, this guide offers a compassionate roadmap for reframing past experiences, embracing neurodivergence, and building a sense of empowerment and self-acceptance.

A New Understanding of Autism

Traditional views of autism were limited, often overlooking traits like high empathy.

Today, we recognize a sensitive phenotype of autism, marked by unique traits and experiences.

Think of autism like a buffet—everyone’s plate looks different, with varying traits, but shared patterns emerge.

This understanding challenges outdated stereotypes and fosters inclusivity, highlighting that autism is a spectrum of individual experiences.

The autistic experience is beautifully diverse, shaped by intersections of race, gender, sexuality, and cultural backgrounds.

Recognizing these influences deepens our understanding and ensures inclusivity.

Key Traits of the Sensitive Autistic Phenotype

The sensitive autistic phenotype is marked by unique traits and patterns. You may find these resonate deeply with your own experiences or those of someone you know.

Lifelong Patterns and Self-Perception

Feeling Different: Often feels “different,” “unique,” or “out of place” from a young age.

Supercomputer Brain: Absorbs vast amounts of information quickly in areas of interest.

Intense Interests: Fully immerses in passions, exploring them deeply, and interests may change or evolve.

Authenticity and Individuality: Prefers authenticity over conformity; following societal norms often feels unnatural or inauthentic.

Heightened Sense of Integrity: Holds a strong commitment to justice and fairness, often driven by deep values.

Sensory Sensitivity

Sensitive autistic individuals typically experience heightened awareness across more than one sense, which may include:

Sounds: Sensitivity to loud noises, overlapping conversations, or background chatter.

Lights: Bright, flickering, or fluorescent lights can be overwhelming.

Textures: Discomfort with certain fabrics, surfaces, or sensations.

Smells: Strong reactions to perfumes, cleaning products, or food aromas.

Taste: Sensitivity to textures, flavors, or temperatures of food.

Temperature: Heightened discomfort when too hot or cold.

Motion: Sensitivity to motion, such as car rides or rapid movement.

Visuals: Overwhelm from clutter, rapid movement, or visually complex environments.

[continues]

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The poppies image above is from her Autism Resources Page, which includes a link to her full post The Sensitive Autistic Neurotype - a "guide designed to help individuals, practitioners, and allies better understand these traits, particularly for those discovering their neurodivergence as adults."

Also on the page:

* Free Guide: Embracing Neurodiversity in the Workplace

* Autistic Energy Crash Recovery Guide (Free)

* Adult-Discovered Autism Group (inside community)

* Course: Discovering You’re Autistic As an Adult

* Autism in Women - information and research.

* Free Autism Quiz

* Autism Podcast Episodes

* Research: HSPs & Autism Similarities & Differences ...

and more

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Related posts and podcasts of mine here on Substack) include:

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