Could Your Social Challenges Be Signs That You Are Neurodivergent?
If social situations often leave you feeling overwhelmed, confused, or exhausted, you’re not alone. Many people experience social difficulties that can make everyday interactions feel challenging or unpredictable. These struggles can lead to questions like, “Is this just part of my personality, or might I be autistic or have ADHD?” The good news is that these experiences are valid, and seeking understanding can be empowering and affirming.
Recognizing Your Unique Social Experiences
Everyone’s social navigation looks a little different. Some people find social interactions energizing and fulfilling, while others may feel drained, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to connect. If you frequently experience challenges in social settings—such as feeling unsure about what to say, overwhelmed by sensory input, or exhausted by social efforts—it might be a sign that your brain processes social cues, sensory information, and communication in its own distinctive way. Recognizing these patterns can be the first step toward self-understanding and embracing your neurodivergence.
Here are some common experiences shared by many who are questioning whether they might be autistic or have ADHD:
Difficulty Interpreting Social Cues
You may find it hard to recognize when someone is upset, bored, disinterested, or happy. Body language, facial expressions, and tonal shifts can sometimes feel ambiguous or confusing. For example, you might misread a friend’s smile as disapproval, or you may miss subtle signs that someone wants to end a conversation. This can lead to misunderstandings, unintentional hurt feelings, or feeling out of sync with others, even when you genuinely want to connect.
Challenges with Small Talk and Surface-Level Interactions
Engaging in casual conversations—like chit-chat about the weather, current events, or general small talk—might feel awkward, exhausting, or pointless. Perhaps you prefer deeper, more meaningful topics but find it difficult to navigate the social norms around small talk. This can lead to feeling left out or misunderstood in social groups, especially if you sense a pressure to perform or mimic social behaviors that don’t come naturally.
Sensory Overload or Sensitivities
Bright lights, loud noises, strong smells, or certain textures can become overwhelming or distracting. For example, a crowded mall or a noisy restaurant might feel physically uncomfortable or mentally draining. Sensory sensitivities can make it difficult to relax or focus in social environments, leading to withdrawal or avoidance of these settings altogether. These sensory experiences can also contribute to feeling overstimulated, anxious, or exhausted after social outings.
Social Anxiety or Feelings of Being “Different”
You might experience persistent worry, self-doubt, or anxiety about social situations—concerns over saying the wrong thing, being misunderstood, or not fitting in. These feelings of being “different” or “out of place” can make social interactions feel even more stressful, sometimes leading to avoidance or isolation. It’s common to experience a cycle of social discomfort that can be hard to break without understanding the underlying reasons.
Focus and Attention Difficulties During Social Interactions
Concentrating during conversations or remembering social details—like names, previous topics, or social cues—can be particularly tough. Your mind may wander or become distracted easily, which can make follow-up conversations challenging. This can give the impression that you’re disengaged or disinterested, even if that’s not the case.
Preference for Alone Time or Small, Familiar Circles
Large gatherings, noisy parties, or busy social settings might feel overstimulating or draining, leading you to seek solitude instead. You may find comfort in one-on-one conversations, quiet environments, or small groups where you can connect more meaningfully without sensory overload. Valuing alone time isn’t a sign of introversion alone—it can also be an essential way your brain resets and recharges.
Your Experiences Are Valid—And They Matter
It’s important to recognize that these experiences don’t define your worth or intelligence. They are simply part of the way your brain interacts with the world—and that’s something to be celebrated. Neurodiversity teaches us that different is not wrong but a natural variation of human experience.
Understanding your social challenges through a neurodiversity-affirming lens can help you feel more compassion toward yourself and recognize your strengths, such as deep empathy, creativity, and unique problem-solving skills. Embracing your neurodiversity means moving beyond stigma to a place of curiosity, acceptance, and pride.
Why Considering a Comprehensive Autism and ADHD Evaluation Is a Vital Step
Many individuals who are questioning whether they have Autism or ADHD hesitate to seek an assessment. They might worry about stigma, confusion about what an assessment entails, or whether it will change how they see themselves. These concerns are understandable, but the benefits of an evaluation far outweigh any doubts.
A professional, neurodiversity-affirming evaluation can:
Provide Clarity and Self-Knowledge: Getting a clear understanding of your neurodivergent profile helps you make sense of your social experiences and behaviors, reducing feelings of confusion or self-blame.
Highlight Strengths and Offer Support: An evaluation isn’t just about diagnosis—it’s about recognizing your unique strengths and learning about resources or strategies tailored to you.
Open Doors to Accommodations and Resources: Whether it’s workplace support, educational accommodations, therapy, or coaching, knowing if you’re neurodivergent can help you access support.
Build Self-Acceptance and Confidence: Understanding yourself better fosters a sense of identity rooted in acceptance and pride. It can reduce shame and help you embrace your authentic self.
Create Connections with Supportive Communities: Connecting with other neurodivergent individuals can be profoundly validating and empowering.
Moving Toward Self-Awareness and Self-Compassion
Seeking an ADHD and Autism evaluation is an act of self-care—an investment in understanding and loving yourself as you are. Remember that neurodiversity emphasizes that all brains are different, and those differences are valuable. Your social experiences are a part of that diversity, and they deserve full acknowledgment and respect.
Even if you’re still exploring these questions, know that you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. There are professionals who specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals and who approach evaluation from an affirming, respectful perspective.
Take the Next Step—You Deserve Clarity and Acceptance
If you’re questioning whether you might be Autistic or have ADHD, reaching out to a neurodiversity-affirming provider can be a transformative step. An evaluation tailored to your experiences can provide clarity, boost your confidence, and open pathways to support and connection.
Your journey toward understanding yourself better is powerful. It’s about honoring your experiences, embracing your strengths, and cultivating a life that reflects your true self. Don’t hesitate to take that first step—reach out today to learn more about the Autism and ADHD evaluation process and how it can support your ongoing self-discovery.
Address Your Unique Neurodivergent Needs With ADHD and Autism Evaluations in Middlesex, NJ
Understand who you are by getting an ADHD and Autism evaluation! These evaluations can uncover the support you need, like accommodations for school and/or week, and personalized counseling. Don't wait - start your journey to personal growth with the help of True Reflections! Follow these three simple steps to get started:
Request an appointment to set up an evaluation
Begin meeting with a skilled neurodivergent affirming therapist
Find support embracing your strengths!
Other Services Offered at True Reflections
At True Reflections Mental Health Services, I’m here to help you find your true self and help you overcome anything with therapy. So in addition to providing ADHD and Autism Assessments, I also offer Autism and Anxiety Therapy, ADHD and Anxiety Therapy, Trauma Therapy for ADHD and Autism, Affirming Therapy for those with ADHD, Affirming Therapy for those with Autism, and Prenatal and Postpartum Therapy. I also offer different treatment modalities such as Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, EMDR Therapy, DBT Therapy, and more. My services are offered in both Middlesex, NJ as well as online in the state of New Jersey. Check out my blog for more topics!
Janine Kelly, MSW, LCSW, C-NDAAP, ADHD-CCSP, ASDCS, PMH-C, RPT-S™, C-DBT, CBT-C, CCATP-CA, CATP is a neurodivergent psychotherapist and the Founder of True Reflections Mental Health Services in Middlesex, NJ. She provides support and Neurodiversity Affirming Comprehensive ADHD & Autism Evaluations to children, teens, and adults in-person in Middlesex, NJ and virtually in the state of New Jersey and Florida. Janine specializes in the diagnosis of ADHD & Autism in girls and women.
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