Asperger’s Syndrome in Adults: Signs and Symptoms

Asperger’s Syndrome in adults presents in several different ways and is typically considered a form of high-functioning autism. Adults with Asperger’s Syndrome often have strong vocabulary and intellectual abilities but may have difficulty talking with others and be prone to awkward social interactions. 

They typically experience minimal language or cognitive delays and in some cases have above-average intelligence. However, the other symptoms associated with Asperger Syndrome can have significantly adverse effects on the individual’s day-to-day life in several ways. In most cases, it will be most noticeable in interactions with other individuals. No one will experience Asperger syndrome in the same way; some might experience only a handful of the symptoms and others the majority of them at different times.

When it comes to identifying the three main signs of Asperger’s, first and foremost typically are difficulties within social interactions. This can extend to difficulty reading emotions or understanding social cues; they may also be prone to focus entirely on themselves or conversations intensely on specific subjects. 

Other signs include not understanding other people’s feelings or perspectives, common social cues such as sarcasm, difficulty with nonverbal communication or reading facial expressions, and much more. There are signs of Asperger’s that may be associated with unusual speech patterns, which include speech that is flat, loud, high-pitched, choppy, quiet, or more. 

Additionally, individuals with Asperger’s may have difficulty managing emotions, which can lead to behavioral or verbal outbursts. Along with these outbursts, difficulty in emotional management may be associated with becoming upset at changes in routine.

When it comes to managing Asperger syndrome in adults, no two individuals will be the same. Instead, patients should work with professionals at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches to establish a custom treatment plan tailored to each individual’s specific needs. 

Some individuals with Asperger’s as adults may require only minor assistance in managing their condition, while others may require more extensive assistance. Treatment is dictated by symptoms and is tailored for each individual. Treatment may be centered around the specific concerns of the individual with Asperger’s such as helping them build social and learning skills, managing difficulties at work or school, controlling emotions, and much more by their specific list of concerns. 

This may involve several talk therapy interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy to help an individual cope with the emotional effects of autism, learn new social skills, and reflect upon and challenge the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and actions.

When it comes to how individuals with Asperger’s cope with stress, it can vary on an individual basis. Often, individuals with Asperger’s may need to be taught skills to cope with stress, they may be prone to outbursts, anxiety, withdrawal, and more when they are faced with stress. 

As a result, this is one of the many symptoms of Asperger’s which can be helpfully managed by seeking care at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches where various stress management techniques can be taught. 

Stress management among individuals with Asperger’s can be achieved in several different ways including the utilization of techniques such as breathing exercises, meditation, and more. 

It can also be worked out during talk therapy, particularly behavioral therapy, which is an increasingly popular cornerstone therapeutic intervention to help patients re-examine the relationship between thoughts, behaviors, feelings, and actions, teach them to recognize distress, and potentially practice avoidance from stressful situations tailored to the circumstances to individual needs.

Treatment for Asperger’s in adults is available at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. Our staff is here to guide you toward a path of healing and improved mental wellness. We serve patients from Boynton Beach FL, Delray Beach FL, Palm Beach Gardens FL, Jupiter FL, Stuart FL, Palm City FL, Royal Palm Beach FL, Wellington FL, Vero Beach FL, Citrus Ridge FL, Plantation FL, Sunrise FL, Jacksonville FL, Riverside FL, Port St. Lucie FL, Beau Rivage West FL, Melbourne FL, Palm Bay FL, and surrounding areas.