Why Are So Many Sensitive People Discovering They’re Autistic? With Julie Bjelland, LMFT

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Sensitive and Neurodivergent Podcast, I explore why so many sensitive individuals, particularly women and those assigned female at birth (AFAB), are discovering their autism later in life. Together, we’ll tackle the misconception that autism is a “fad”—an idea that suggests people are falsely claiming to be autistic as part of a trend. I’ll explain why this view is not only wrong but harmful and how greater awareness is helping people recognize traits that were overlooked for decades.

I’ll also answer a listener’s question about whether heightened empathy is compatible with being autistic and challenge the myth that autistic people lack empathy. We’ll discuss the concept of “masking,” or hiding autistic traits to fit into societal expectations, and how this often leads to anxiety, burnout, and chronic health issues. Plus, I’ll share 14 common traits of autistic adults and explore how understanding autism can transform self-compassion, reduce self-criticism, and improve overall well-being.

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Book a Session with Julie: Explore your autistic traits, uncover strengths, and gain clarity with Julie’s personalized global coaching. Book here

• New Course! Discovering You’re Autistic as an Adult: Guiding You Through the Journey, Scripts, Tools, and Support to Help You Navigate Life Authentically and with Confidence

• Autistic Women’s Group Inside the Sensitive Empowerment Community: Join Julie’s community and access my autistic women group.

• Autism Articles: Explore Julie’s blog for in-depth resources about autism, sensitivity, and neurodivergence.

• Article: Chronic Health Conditions Common in Autistic Individuals. Read Here

• Leave me a Voicemail: Leave a question or comment for Julie to address in a future episode! Leave a voicemail here: https://speakpipe.com/sensitive

If you’ve ever felt “different,” overwhelmed by sensory input, or driven by people-pleasing tendencies, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Listener Question:

• Addressing the myth that autistic people lack empathy and explaining how autistic individuals often experience heightened empathy.

Dispelling Myths About Autism:

• Why autism is not a “fad” but an awakening of awareness and self-discovery.

• How outdated research centered on young, white boys led to decades of misdiagnosis and underdiagnosis in women, AFAB individuals, and people of color.

14 Common Traits of Autistic Adults:

• I’ll share traits like heightened empathy, sensory sensitivities, people-pleasing tendencies, and energy imbalances that resonate with many sensitive individuals.

The Hidden Disability of Masking:

• How masking to fit into neurotypical norms leads to burnout, meltdowns, and chronic health conditions.

The Power of Knowing:

• Understanding autism removes shame, increases self-compassion, and effectively helps you meet sensory and emotional needs.

The Salad Bar Analogy for Autism:

• This is a relatable metaphor for understanding autism as a spectrum where each individual’s experience is unique and valid.

Key Takeaways:

1. Autism isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience—it’s a spectrum of traits and sensitivities.

2. Understanding your autism is a transformative journey that brings validation and self-compassion.

3. The narrative that autism is a fad is harmful; it’s a hidden disability that’s now being recognized more accurately.

4. Masking and people-pleasing can lead to burnout, but understanding your needs helps you set boundaries and thrive authentically.

Stay Connected:

• Visit SensitiveConnection.com for more resources, courses, and support.

• Follow: Stay updated on new podcast episodes and community updates on social media.

If today’s episode resonates with you, consider booking a session with me to explore your unique traits and embark on a personalized journey toward self-discovery and empowerment.

Meet Your Host

I’m Julie Bjelland, LMFT, Consultant and Specialist in Late-Discovered Autism in Sensitive Women (AFAB), a neurodivergent psychotherapist, author, and founder of Sensitive Empowerment. I empower sensitive and neurodivergent individuals to embrace their authentic selves, improve their well-being, and thrive. Through my global support hub, I offer online courses, a supportive community, a podcast, articles, and webinars to reduce overwhelm and balance the sensitive nervous system. As a proud LGBTQ+ member, I am dedicated to creating safe, inclusive spaces for all. Discover more at JulieBjelland.com.

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