At a recent AANE group session, we discussed AI and how it effects us. For me, AI kind of scares me because of the potential for scams and fraud. From childhood on with my family I was always told I was too sensitive in communication. I do not care for the social niceties because sometimes I feel they are fake. I know at times I want to tell the truth but I know there is a risk there and people do not want to hear it. I struggle with anxiety most of my life and it was a part of some of my family members personality. It came down from my father. I am great at overthinking in my day to day life. It caused me to walk away from situations that, if I had been more patient, would have turned out just fine. At times I give up too easily on good experiences. At other times I just did not like dealing with the conflicts. I have worked with my therapist for over 25 years and we have learned a lot from each other.
Category: Coping with Aspergers
Support Group Notes
For several years I have participated in a support group for adults on the spectrum. The group is though an organization is called AANE. The group meets on Zoom. For 8 weeks 4 times a year. In each meeting people share their weekly struggles and successes. My goal is to learn from others and make a contribution to the group. This is from Sept 1, 2026 group. – Greg
Resources re: our discussion topic (Anxiety as an Autistic person)
Resources/suggestions:
Strategies focus on immediate physiological grounding, sensory management, and reducing cognitive demand.
1. Shift to Physical Grounding (Proprioceptive Input)
Deep Pressure Therapy (DPT)
Wall Pushes
The 5-5-5 Breathing Method
2. Aggressively Cut Sensory Input
Isolate Your Senses
Change Your Environment
3. Lean into Regulating Behaviors
Allow Safe Stimming:
Engage a Special Interest:
4. Implement a Radical “Brain Freeze”
Stop Making Decisions:
Use an Exit Strategy:
- Ashwagandha
- Medical Marijuana
- Calling someone to verbally process (or talking aloud to self)
- Nonverbal communication (sign language)
Kelly Urban is the group leader.