Symptoms

Social anxiety disorder is characterized by fear and anxiety of social interactions or performance situations.

Your ability to function is limited by your anxiety in those circumstances.

Asperger’s disorder, now known as autism spectrum disorder, does not require the presence of anxiety.

therapist talking to woman

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Behavior in social situations is instead impaired because of trouble reading and understanding social and emotional cues.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

There is no single cause of autism spectrum disorder.

Studies suggest that autism is hereditary.

They may ask questions or utilize screening assessments.

They may also perform a physical exam and conduct lab tests to rule out other conditions.

ASD is usually diagnosed in childhood.

Social anxiety disorder is often diagnosed in childhood, but the condition affects people of all ages.

Asperger’s or autism is a form ofneurodivergence.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach, so what works best often depends on an individual’s characteristics and needs.

The goal is to help people build skills and develop their strengths.

Early treatment for social anxiety can prevent symptoms from worsening and causing more significant life disruptions.

Summary

SAD and ASD are separate problems that show some overlap and may share some treatments.

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