Logo Faded 2

What Is Social Isolation?

Social isolation in autism refers to the experience of having limited social interactions and connections, which often leads to feelings of profound loneliness and exclusion. Social isolation can arise from challenges in social communication, sensory sensitivities, and understanding social cues, which may hinder the development of meaningful social relationships.

Autistic university students face significant social challenges, including difficulties with social skills, limited social support opportunities, and a lack of autism awareness from others. These challenges contribute to feelings of social isolation and mental health difficulties. Also, studies have shown that autistic adults experience loneliness at heightened levels, which is closely associated with anxiety and depression. A systematic review has quantified differences in loneliness levels between autistic and neurotypicals, finding that autistic individuals are more susceptible to loneliness.

Logo Faded 2

How Autism Spectrum Affects Social Interaction

Many autistic people feel like loneliness has often felt familiar, even when people surround them. Disconnection and objective social isolation are real, and expressing with words how an autistic person can experience the world in those moments can be truly overwhelming and can prevent people from gathering with other people and friends in fun activities.

Autistic people may have difficulty interpreting non-speaking cues, such as body language, essential for developing social interaction and relationships. They may also have trouble starting or maintaining conversations. Some autistic people might not initiate social interactions, such as greetings or small talk, which can be misinterpreted as disinterest. Heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli—such as loud noises or bright lights—can overwhelm social environments, leading to avoidance of social situations.

Logo Faded 2
Social Isolation in Autism
Logo Faded 2

Causes of Social Isolation in Autistic People

Can you imagine how it feels to be surrounded by people yet feel completely alone, not because you don’t want to connect but because the world isn’t built to understand you? For many autistic people, this is a daily reality. Despite having passions and interests that could spark meaningful friendships, they often face barriers others take for granted.

Stigma, sensory sensitivities, communication challenges, and societal exclusion combine to create a world where simply being different can mean being invisible. Social isolation for autistic people is not just a personal struggle—it’s a reflection of a society that has yet to embrace neurodiversity fully. Understanding the causes behind this isolation is the first step toward building a world where everyone feels they belong.

Logo Faded 2

Lack of Public Understanding and Acceptance

The lack of public understanding and acceptance of autism remains a significant barrier to improving the lives of autistic people in the UK. Despite widespread awareness, with 99.5% of people having heard of autism, only 16% of autistic people and their families feel the public truly understands what it means to be autistic. This disconnect has profound consequences, as written evidence from the National Autistic Society reveals that 79% of autistic people and 70% of their families experience social isolation due to misconceptions and stigma. The delays in delivering the promised public understanding initiative, as outlined in the National Disability Strategy, are particularly disappointing. While the initiative was meant to be developed by autumn 2021 and trialled by May 2022, it remains in its early planning stages, highlighting a missed opportunity to foster acceptance and inclusivity.

Improving public understanding requires a nuanced approach that acknowledges the diversity within the autistic community. Autistic women, girls, LGBTQ+ people, and those from ethnic minority backgrounds often face unique challenges due to intersecting identities, which are poorly understood both by the public and support services. For instance, the lack of understanding about autism in women and girls contributes to delayed assessments and inadequate support, as evidenced by a 70% increase in autistic female inpatients in mental health hospitals between 2017 and 2022. This underscores the urgent need for initiatives that emphasise the diverse experiences of autistic people, challenge stereotypes, and promote early intervention. Without this, many autistic people risk falling through the cracks, missing out on essential support that could prevent crises and improve their quality of life.

The term “autism spectrum disorder” (ASD) can unintentionally contribute to social isolation for autistic people by perpetuating the idea that their condition is something inherently “disordered” or harmful. The word “disorder” can imply that there is something wrong with the person, fostering feelings of stigma and difference. This can lead to autistic people feeling excluded or misunderstood by society, as they may internalise the label and view themselves through the lens of “being broken” or “abnormal.” Using the term “autism and developmental disorders” can also contribute to social isolation in autistic people for several reasons. The inclusion of “developmental disorders” usually carries the connotation of something that is “delayed” or “deficient,” which can further reinforce negative perceptions and stereotypes about autistic people.

Communication Differences

Interpreting non-speaking cues, such as facial expressions and body language, can lead to misunderstandings and hinder the development of meaningful relationships and social connections. Additionally, difficulties initiating and maintaining conversations may result in fewer social interactions, further contributing to feelings of isolation. Understanding and accommodating these communication differences are crucial steps toward reducing social isolation and fostering inclusivity for autistic people.

Acknowledging unique communication styles and adapting our approaches, such as providing alternative communication methods or allowing extra processing time, can help create more inclusive environments that facilitate effective social engagement. This perspective encourages a shift from viewing autistic communication as disordered to recognising it as a natural variation, promoting acceptance and better support for autistic people.

With this in mind, we spoke to Jodee Simpson, our Speech and Language Therapist and Co-founder of the UK’s first peer support network for neurodivergent speech and language therapists. Here, Jodee writes about her perspective on more humanised support and non-traditional ways to connect with autistic people and/or people with a learning disability. She shares:

To understand how autistic people think, the best way to find that out is to ask them. We tend to go and learn about autism and then say, well, you must be feeling this because I’ve learnt all about autism, but actually, we have to find ways to enable people to express themselves. Most times, autistic people feel pain differently as well, and it’s directly connected to speech and language. While we may feel physical reactions, like increased heart rate or sweating, we often don’t recognise these as signs of distress. The part of our body that signals changes doesn’t communicate with our brain, so we may not realise something is wrong. This is also true for emotional pain. Our bodies feel dysregulated, but our brains don’t register the issue. Consequently, we often don’t ask for help because we’re unaware of our distress.”

Read more about what Jodee has to say here.

Sensory Overload and Anxiety

Many autistic people experience sensory processing differences that can make specific environments overwhelming and unwelcoming. Noisy, crowded places or environments with intense sensory stimuli can be particularly challenging, deterring autistic people from participating in social activities. This sensory overload can lead to avoidance of social situations, increasing isolation.

They can also more often experience heightened social anxiety and fear of rejection, which can prevent them from engaging in social interactions. This anxiety may stem from past experiences of bullying, misunderstanding, or social difficulties in peer relationships. The fear of potential negative outcomes in social situations can lead to a cycle of avoidance and further isolation.

Stigma and Social Exclusion

The stigma surrounding autism contributes to heightened levels of depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Many autistic people feel pressured to mask their autism to avoid facing discrimination, a behaviour that can take a toll on their overall well-being and turn them socially isolated.

In professional environments, autistic workers frequently encounter prejudice and a lack of understanding, prompting some to conceal their autism to safeguard their careers. Such challenges are unfortunately common, reflecting how society’s limited acceptance of diversity can stifle opportunities for autistic people to feel empowered and embrace their individuality. Despite growing awareness, employment rates for autistic adults in the UK remain low, with only 31% employed as of March 2024. This underemployment is often due to workplace environments that are not accommodating, leading to social exclusion and isolation.

Logo Faded 2

The Effects of Social Isolation on Autistic People

While everyone may experience some degree of isolation at different points in their lives, the unique characteristics of autism—such as differences in communication, sensory processing, and social understanding—can make it harder for people to form and maintain connections with others. This lack of social connection can have far-reaching effects, impacting not just mental health but personal development and overall quality of life.

Logo Faded 2
Social Isolation in Autism 1
Logo Faded 2

Emotional and Mental Health Impact

Autistic children are up to four times more likely to experience loneliness compared to neurotypical peers. This heightened sense of isolation can cause feelings of sadness and emotional distress. In adults, chronic loneliness stems not from a lack of desire for connection but from barriers like stigma, communication challenges, and limited opportunities to interact with supportive people. Over time, this emotional distress can accumulate, leaving them often feeling lonely, alienated and undervalued.

Masking” refers to the effort autistic people often make to suppress their natural behaviours and conform to social expectations. Prolonged periods of masking, especially without supportive outlets, can lead to emotional exhaustion or “autistic burnout,” marked by extreme fatigue, reduced ability to cope, and withdrawal from daily activities.

Physical Health Consequences

The physical health consequences of social isolation among autistic people are significant and often overlooked. Prolonged loneliness and lack of social interaction can lead to various health issues that affect overall well-being. Here’s a deeper look:

  • Increased Stress Levels – For autistic people, this stress may be amplified by sensory sensitivities and challenges in dealing with social situations. Chronic stress can elevate cortisol levels, negatively impacting the cardiovascular system, digestion, and immune function.

  • Weakened Immune System – Studies suggest that loneliness can suppress the immune system, making people more sensitive to infections and slower recovery from illnesses. For autistic people, who may already have unique health challenges, this suppression can compound health risks.

  • Poor Sleep Quality – Loneliness and isolation can negatively affect sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or disrupted sleep cycles. Autistic people often experience sleep difficulties, and social isolation may cause these challenges, further impacting their physical and mental health.

  • Reduced Physical Activity – Social isolation often correlates with lower physical activity levels. For autistic people, this may be due to limited access to inclusive recreational opportunities or the lack of a social network to encourage active lifestyles. Reduced physical activity can lead to muscle atrophy, weight gain, and other health concerns.

  • Accelerated Aging and Cognitive DeclineSocial isolation has been associated with early ageing and a greater risk of cognitive decline in the general population. Although autism research is still emerging, these effects likely extend to them as well, particularly for those who experience prolonged isolation.

Impact on Personal Development

Multiple fields might create spaces for a negative impact on personal development. Social events and interactions are vital for developing quality communication skills. However, for autistic people, limited social exposure can delay the acquisition of these abilities. Repeated experiences of exclusion or misunderstanding can diminish self-esteem. Autistic people may begin to doubt their abilities or feel incapable of forming meaningful connections. This reduced confidence can create a cycle where fear of rejection leads to avoiding social situations, further stunting personal development.

Personal development is deeply tied to emotional maturity, often evolving through social learning and shared experiences. Autistic people facing isolation may have fewer opportunities to experience and manage complex emotions within relationships, which can affect their capacity for empathy, conflict resolution, and resilience. Social isolation during formative years can cascade, impacting long-term development. For example, a lack of early social engagement can make transitioning to higher education or the workplace more difficult, reinforcing isolation and its consequences.

Strategies to Reduce Social Isolation

For many autistic people, social interaction can feel like entering an unknown world filled with overwhelming anxiety and uncertainty. But what if there were ways to break through those barriers? What if, step by step, you could begin to create connections, find comfort in small conversations, and discover communities that truly understand and support you?

  1. Developing and Planning Social Interaction

Autistic people have varying needs; some can lead more independent lives, while others may require lifelong specialised support. For autistic people who require lifelong specialised support, planning and developing social interaction can be a transformative process that is tailored to their unique needs, abilities, and comfort levels. Lifelong support means that the strategies for social engagement are consistent and flexible enough to adapt to changing circumstances as the person progresses through different stages of life. This might involve setting up a timetable or weekly schedule, which offers comfort and security for people who rely on routine. The key is to introduce social opportunities gradually. For example, the support workers could create a plan for the supported person to visit a local shop or a nearby café once a week. Over time, these outings can become familiar places where they may start recognising and connecting with others. By having these small, consistent interactions, there’s potential to build familiarity and comfort, ultimately easing the anxiety that may come with meeting new people.

    2. Managing Intense Distress

Anxiety is often a significant barrier for autistic people when it comes to socialising. The fear of rejection or the unpredictability of social situations can heighten these feelings. Speaking about anxiety is essential, and seeking support from healthcare professionals is an important first step. Talking to a GP or therapist specialising in autism can provide tailored advice and guidance. In some cases, people may be referred to a specialist who can teach strategies to manage anxiety, such as relaxation techniques, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), or other therapies aimed at improving social skills. These tools help autisitc people experience social environments with greater ease and confidence.

Logo Faded 2

         3. Taking Part in a Group or Activity

Whether in adulthood, during transition periods, or later in life, group participation can continue to evolve with a person’s needs and interests. These ongoing opportunities ensure that autistic people don’t become disconnected from their peers as they age, supporting their emotional and social well-being over time. Groups or activities designed for autistic people often have structure and support in place. This makes them ideal for people who need guidance and reassurance. In a controlled and safe environment, people can feel more confident to engage without fear of misunderstanding or rejection. Specialist support staff can ensure the activity is accessible and offer emotional guidance and assistance when needed. This safety net can encourage people to take the social risks they might avoid in other situations.

The Role of Care Providers in Supporting Autistic People

Providing the right care in place involves understanding each person’s unique needs and preferences. Health and social care providers engage in person-centred support and conversations to explore strengths and differences, empowering autistic adults to make informed decisions about their care and support. Community-based support ensures interventions are tailored to the person’s circumstances, promoting greater engagement and satisfaction in their community. They also must advocate for and create inclusive environments that accommodate the sensory and social needs of autistic people. This may involve modifying settings to reduce sensory overload and implementing structured routines, making social participation more accessible and comfortable.

Understanding that autism is a lifelong neurological difference, care providers offer continuous support to adapt to changing needs over time. This ongoing assistance ensures that autistic people can maintain social connections and engage in community activities throughout their lives.

Autism Support with Leaf Complex Care

Leaf Complex Care is a UK-based social care provider specialising in delivering personalised support for autistic people and those with a learning disability within their own homes. Our mission is to empower people to lead fulfilling lives in their local communities by offering person-centred, CQC-regulated care grounded in Positive Behaviour Support (PBS).

Leaf Complex Care has an in-house therapy team providing specialised support tailored to each person’s unique needs. The team comprises Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) Specialists, Speech and Language Therapists and Occupational Therapists.

Meet Mitch

Mitch is a young boy who is autistic and lives with a learning disability and cerebral palsy. Over the years, Mitch has encountered significant challenges and physical disabilities, including undergoing Grice subtalar fusion surgery on his ankles, which has impacted his mobility. Additionally, he faces behavioural difficulties and has previously struggled to discuss his actions openly.

Get to know more about his care journey through our case study.

The Positive Outcomes Mitch Achieves

Through consistent support, Mitch achieved significant progress in several areas:

  • Reduced Behavioral Challenges: The frequency and intensity of challenging behaviours decreased, due to the structured and supportive environment.

  • Enhanced Social Engagement: Mitch began participating in community activities with a sense of inclusion and belonging.

  • Improved Quality of Life: The holistic approach empowered Mitch to pursue personal goals, enhancing his confidence and independence.

  • Positive Risk-Taking: Mitch gained the confidence to explore new experiences, leading to greater autonomy in decision-making and daily living.

Please get in touch with us today for more information on our support plans. Our offices are in Bristol, South East, Birmingham, and Somerset